Characteristics of long-term survivors with ovarian cancer: Expression VI-Carolin meets HANNA – the international NOGGO, ENGOT and GCIG survey

Objective:

Aim of this study was to identify characteristics of long-term survivors with ovarian cancer.

Methods:

Since 11/2016 long-term survivors with ovarian cancer (LTS) were recruited within the study „Carolin meets HANNA” (www.carolinmeetshanna.com). Long-term survival was defined as an ovarian cancer diagnosis more than eight years ago.

Results:

Until 03/2018 182 LTS could be recruited. Median age at diagnosis was 54 years (range 14 – 79) and 45% were diagnosed in advanced stages (FIGO III/IV). Almost all patients were treated with surgery (99%) and chemotherapy (91%). More than half (56%) developed recurrent disease and 84% underwent recurrent cancer surgery. Cancer treatment is ongoing in 44%. Current symptoms were stated by 61% of patients. Most patients (89%) are taking concurrent medications with a median of 3 tablets daily. 52% of LTS believe that stress at home/at work is the reason for their cancer diagnosis. Alternative medicine was used by 23%. Physical activity and nutrition are believed to have a positive impact on the course of the disease (54% and 66% respectively). 72% eat more fruits and vegetables since diagnosis. Only 23% are not physically active.

Conclusions:

The group of LTS seems to be a heterogeneous group of patients. In order to find a signature in LTS in ovarian cancer international recruiting within the ENGOT and GCIG is ongoing.