Quality of Life Among Cancer Survivors Across Different Malignancies: A Systematic Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.68041/jmmhr.v1i1/06Keywords:
Quality of Life, Cancer Survivors, Breast Neoplasms, Colorectal Neoplasms, Lung Neoplasms, Prostatic Neoplasms, SurvivorshipAbstract
Background: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important outcome in the field of cancer survivorship as it encompasses the physical, psychological, social and functional impact of cancer and its treatment over the long-term. The objective of this systematic review was to determine the factors associated with HRQoL in the breast, colorectal, lung and prostate cancer survivor populations. Methods: The review was done in line with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases was conducted for studies published from March 2019 to May 2026. Studies that assessed HRQoL and its associated factors in adult cancer survivors were included in the observational studies. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to evaluate for risk of bias in cohort studies and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to evaluate for risk of bias in cross-sectional studies. Certainty of evidence was assessed by GRADE approach. Results: In all cancer types, advanced disease stages, treatment-related complications, ongoing symptoms, comorbidities, psychological distress and financial hardship were found to be consistently associated with poorer HRQoL. However, healthy lifestyle behaviors, higher levels of physical activity and physical functioning were linked with better HRQoL. Overall, cohort studies had low risk of bias; most cross-sectional studies had moderate risk because of the selection and measurement problems. Conclusions: There are several socio-demographic, clinical, psychosocial, treatment and lifestyle factors affecting HRQoL of cancer survivors. Identification of modifiable determinants early and comprehensive survivorship care can enhance long-term quality of life.
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