Quality of life and symptoms in long-term survivors of colorectal cancer: results from NSABP protocol LTS-01

Purpose Little is known about health-related quality of life (HRQL) in long-term survivors (LTS) of colorectal cancer (CRC). Methods Long-term CRC survivors (>= 5 years) treated in previous National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project trials were recruited from 60 sites. After obtaining consent, a telephone survey was administered, which included HRQL instruments to measure physical health (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living [IADL], SF-12 Physical Component Scale [PCS], SF-36 Vitality Scale), mental health (SF-12 Mental Component Scale [MCS], Life Orientation Test, and Impact of Cancer), and clinical symptoms (Fatigue Symptom Inventory [FSI], European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Colorectal Module [EORTC-CR38], and Brief Pain Inventory). A multivariable model identified predictors of overall quality of life (global health rating). Results Participants (N = 708) had significantly higher HRQL compared with age group-matched non-cancer controls with higher mean scores on SF-12 PCS (49.5 vs. 43.7, p = < 0.05), MCS (55.6 vs. 52.1, p = < 0.05), and SF-36 Vitality Scale (67.1 vs. 59.9, p = < 0.05). Multivariable modeling has demonstrated that better overall physical and mental health (PCS and MCS), positive body image (EORTC-CR38 scale), and less fatigue (FSI), were strongly associated with overall quality of life as measured by the global health rating. Interestingly, ability to perform IADLs, experience of cancer, gastrointestinal complaints, and pain, were not important predictors. Conclusions In long-term CRC survivors, overall physical and mental health was excellent compared with general population. Other disease-related symptoms did not detract from good overall health. Implications for cancer survivors LTS of CRC within the setting of a clinical trial have higher HRQL than the general population, and treatment regimens do not appear to be associated with any significant late effects on quality of life. Trial Registration: NSABP LTS-01: NCT00410579.