The need for quality self-management support in cancer care

The number of people living with and beyond cancer is rising rapidly. With earlier detection and better treatments many people are living for years following a diagnosis of cancer. Healthcare systems need to adapt to manage this demand and better meet the needs of this growing population.1 The consequences of cancer and its treatment are common, can arise at any point and may be long lasting.2 They can have a significant impact on daily life and include a range of physical symptoms and late effects such as pain, fatigue, bowel dysfunction; psychological concerns such as anxiety, depression and fear of recurrence; and social impacts including disruption to previously enjoyed activities, ability to work and relationships.3 Lifestyle changes and long-term medications to reduce the risk of recurrence, hospital appointments, routine surveillance and monitoring for signs of potential disease progression can create additional burden. People may lack confidence and struggle to manage the impact on their daily lives resulting in disrupted lives and futures.4 This can exacerbate mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Low confidence to self-manage and depression have been associated with worse health and well-being outcomes up to 2 years after diagnosis.5 In addition, as most people are diagnosed with cancer in later life, many are also living with long-term conditions which can exacerbate problems further.6 Understanding how best to support people to manage the consequences of cancer and its treatment to reduce health crises and quality of life is a global concern.7 The good news is that appropriate support can reduce health crises, enhance confidence to manage and improve mental health, quality of life and other outcomes.8 9 The National Health Service (NHS) Long Term Plan10 states that by 2021 ‘ where appropriate every person diagnosed with cancer …