Management of cancer survivors in Korea

Abstract

With the early detection of cancer and advances in cancer treatment, the number of cancer survivors is increasing dramatically and is currently over 1 million. Many cancer survivors face lifetime risks associated with their cancer therapy, with a significant proportion at risk for serious morbidity and premature mortality. The long-term physical and psychosocial effects of cancer treatment on cancer survivors and their families are increasingly being recognized as emerging problems from both clinical and public health perspectives. This article summarizes the core principles of management of cancer survivors: follow-up of primary cancer; screening and prevention of a second primary cancer; management of late effects of cancer treatment and comorbid conditions; promotion of healthy behaviors such as smoking cessation, exercise and physical activity, nutrition, and weight management; management of psychosocial problems; and support for family caregivers. Finally, we discuss the way forward for improving survivorship care: shared care between oncologists and primary care physicians; a comprehensive cancer support program; and further research to generate relevant evidence regarding these management principles.