Identifying the Needs of Cancer Survivors in Michigan

Authors:

Diana Haggerty (Presenter)
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

Debbie Webster, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

Public Health Statement: Identifying the needs of cancer survivors allows programs to more effectively deliver services that aim to improve survivors’ quality of life.

Purpose: Our question was “What are the needs of Michigan’s cancer survivors?” We sought to leverage Michigan health surveillance data and cancer expert insight to identify the needs of cancer survivors.

Methods/Approach: We used Michigan Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (MiBRFSS) data from 2013 and 2014 to target Michigan cancer survivors. MiBRFSS is an annual, cross-sectional survey of the general Michigan population that ascertains cancer survivor status. MiBRFSS data were used to identify the prevalence of cancer survivors and factors that might indicate a need. To be included, a person had to report a previous cancer diagnosis. We then held group discussions with cancer experts. Cancer experts identified needs of survivors, which were compared to MiBRFSS data. Experts also identified gaps in data for measuring survivor needs. MiBRFSS data were analyzed using age-adjusted frequency and percents for demographic data, and crude frequency and percents for all other indicators. Expert meetings were transcribed and needs were organized by theme.

Results: Experts identified five themes for survivor needs: survivor assessment, provider education, survivor education, access to resources, and psychosocial support. MiBRFSS measured variables related to needs that fell under survivor assessment, provider education, survivor education, and access to resources. Gaps in assessment were identified across themes.

Conclusions/Implications: MiBRFSS data when combined with qualitative data from focus groups of cancer survivors and cancer experts will be able to track many needs of cancer survivors.