Sleep and quality of life in long-term lung cancer survivors

Background: Steep problems are common in lung cancer survivors, yet little is known about the prevalence, determinants, and effects on quality of life (QoL) of these steep problems in tong-term Lung cancer survivors. Methods: A case-control study design comparing 76 elderly lung cancer survivors (LCS, >5 years post diagnosis with mean survival time of 8 years +/- 2.1 years) and 78 elderly non-cancer controls (NCC). Measurements included a standardized questionnaire for steep (Pittsburgh Steep Quality Index-PSQI), and analogue scales for dyspnea, pain, and other comorbid symptoms, as well as demographic factors and cancer history. Results: Overall, 56.6% of LCS had poor steep (PSQI global score > 5) as compared to only 29.5% of NCC (p < 0.001), and 49.2% of LCS who did not have steep difficulties prior to their lung cancer diagnosis ultimately developed them. There was also evidence of significant impairments in steep efficiency in LCS (78.3%) relative to NCC (89.6%, p < 0.001), predominantly due to increased nocturnal awakenings. A single-item analogue scale for steep quality was not as effective in identifying steep problems as more specific questions about steep duration and steep efficiency. Poor steep quality was significantly correlated with impairments in quality of life, even when controlling for other factors, such as dyspnea. Conclusions: Even 8 years after diagnosis, LCS continue to have significant steep difficulties. By asking specific questions about steep medication use, nocturnal awakenings and steep efficiency, health care providers can identify steep problems that could be treated and potentially improve the quality of life of their patients. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.