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Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through...
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Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition

A special issue of Cancers (ISSN 2072-6694). This special issue belongs to the section "Cancer Survivorship and Quality of Life".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 January 2026 | Viewed by 3593

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Kellie Toohey

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Physical Activity, Sport and Exercise Research Theme, Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, East Lismore, Australia
Interests: cancer; physical activity; exercise; supportive care; holistic care; rehabilitation

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

As the number of cancer survivors grows, it is becoming increasingly important to focus on their long-term well-being and quality of life. Many survivors continue to face challenges from treatment-related side effects, which can significantly hinder daily functioning and overall health. Addressing these challenges through supportive care strategies, including non-pharmacological approaches, is vital for empowering cancer survivors to thrive beyond their diagnosis.

We recognize the importance of pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, including physical activity and nutrition, as fundamental components of supportive care; however, there are currently no gold-standard strategies that effectively integrate many of these elements into comprehensive care. For example, research consistently demonstrates that personalised exercise regimens and balanced nutritional interventions yield promising benefits, yet significant gaps remain in this research area that must be identified and addressed, such as the mechanisms of the benefits observed. These gaps hinder our ability to provide comprehensive and empirically supported guidelines for optimal survivorship care, highlighting the need for more research and funded programmes to support survivors and advance research and implementation strategies in this crucial area.

This Special Issue of Cancers seeks to explore innovative research, insightful reviews, and practical strategies focused on optimising nutrition, physical activity, and other pharmacological or non-pharmacological approaches to fill these gaps as essential components of supportive care for people diagnosed with cancer. By sharing knowledge and best practices in these areas, we aim to strengthen the evidence base for holistic cancer care that prioritises survivor empowerment, enhances quality of life, and supports recovery.

Dr. Kellie Toohey
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Cancers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • cancer
  • physical activity
  • exercise
  • supportive care
  • holistic care
  • rehabilitation

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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26 pages, 2368 KB  
Article
Exploring Patient-Centered Perspectives on Suicidal Ideation: A Mixed-Methods Investigation in Gastrointestinal Cancer Care
by Avishek Choudhury, Yeganeh Shahsavar, Imtiaz Ahmed, M. Abdullah Al-Mamun and Safa Elkefi
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2460; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152460 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 457
Abstract
Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients face a four-fold higher suicide risk than the general US population. This study explores psychosocial aspects of GI cancer patient experiences, assessing suicidal ideation and behavior, mental distress during treatment phases, and psychosocial factors on mental health. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients face a four-fold higher suicide risk than the general US population. This study explores psychosocial aspects of GI cancer patient experiences, assessing suicidal ideation and behavior, mental distress during treatment phases, and psychosocial factors on mental health. Methods: A two-phase mixed-methods approach involved a web-based survey and follow-up interviews. Quantitative data analysis validated mental health and suicidal ideation constructs, and correlation analyses were performed. The patient journey was charted from diagnosis to treatment. Results: Two hundred and two individuals participated, with 76 from the rural Appalachian region and 78 undergoing treatments. Quantitative analysis showed a higher prevalence of passive suicidal ideation than active planning. The post-treatment recovery period was the most emotionally challenging. Qualitative data emphasized emotional support and vulnerability to isolation. Care quality concerns included individualized treatment plans and better communication. Patients also needed clear, comprehensive information about treatment and side effects. The in-depth interview with four GI cancer patients revealed a healthcare system prioritizing expedient treatment over comprehensive care, lacking formal psychological support. AI emerged as a promising avenue for enhancing patient understanding and treatment options. Conclusions: Our research advocates for a patient-centric model of care, enhanced by technology and empathetic communication. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)
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20 pages, 327 KB  
Article
A Comparison of In-Person and Telehealth Personalized Exercise Programs for Cancer Survivors: A Secondary Data Analysis
by Nada Lukkahatai, Gyumin Han, Chitchanok Benjasirisan, Jongmin Park, Hejingzi Monica Jia, Mingfang Li, Junxin Li, Jennifer Y. Sheng, Michael Carducci and Leorey N. Saligan
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2432; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152432 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 955
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study evaluates the effects of a personalized exercise program on symptoms (pain, fatigue, sleep, cognitive function, physical function), resilience, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and compares the effectiveness of in-person versus telehealth delivery. Methods: A secondary data analysis [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study evaluates the effects of a personalized exercise program on symptoms (pain, fatigue, sleep, cognitive function, physical function), resilience, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and compares the effectiveness of in-person versus telehealth delivery. Methods: A secondary data analysis was conducted on two 12-week randomized control pilot studies for solid tumor cancer survivors. One study involved in-person home visits with telephone follow-ups. The second utilized weekly exercise recommendations via a smartphone app. Both studies had control participants who received the standard care. Symptoms, resilience, and HRQOL were measured at baseline and after 12 weeks. Paired t-tests were conducted for intervention effects and ANCOVA for group differences, adjusting for age and education. Results: The analysis included 75 program completers: 15 in-person (iHBE), 38 telehealth (TEHE), and 22 who received standard care. Those receiving exercise interventions reported improvements in physical (t = 3.0, p < 0.01) and mental fatigability (t = 3.1, p < 0.01) at program completion compared to baseline. Comparing the mean changes between participants receiving exercise interventions in-person and via telehealth, there were no significant differences between the two delivery methods except perceived visuo-perceptual cognitive difficulty (F = 3.55, p = 0.027), where telehealth showed a slight advantage. Conclusions: The study provides initial evidence of the effectiveness of a telehealth personalized exercise on fatigability and cognitive difficulty, suggesting it is a potential viable alternative to in-person intervention. Further research with a larger cohort is essential to ascertain the effects of these interventional modalities on cancer-related health outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)
10 pages, 905 KB  
Article
Impact of Testicular Cancer on the Socio-Economic Health, Sexual Health, and Fertility of Survivors—A Questionnaire Based Survey
by M. Raheel Khan, Patrice Kearney Sheehan, Ashley Bazin, Christine Leonard, Lynda Corrigan and Ray McDermott
Cancers 2025, 17(11), 1826; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17111826 - 30 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 641
Abstract
Introduction: Testicular cancer (TC) is diagnosed at a young age and carries a remarkably high cure rate. Hence, there is a sizeable population living in the survivorship phase. Many studies have highlighted the plight of TC survivors as a result of the [...] Read more.
Introduction: Testicular cancer (TC) is diagnosed at a young age and carries a remarkably high cure rate. Hence, there is a sizeable population living in the survivorship phase. Many studies have highlighted the plight of TC survivors as a result of the late side-effects of the different therapeutic modalities used for the treatment of TC. This is the first study in Ireland to highlight the impact of TC on socio-economic health, sexual health, and fertility in survivors. Method: We performed a questionnaire-based survey, which was fully anonymised to encourage participation. Questionnaires were designed to measure the self-reported impact on social, sexual, and economic health on a five-point Likert scale (ranging from no effect to very significant effect), whereas any effect on fertility was investigated with questions regarding biological children before and after cancer with or without medical assistance. Results: A total of 83 TC survivors participated in the study. Almost half of our respondents revealed some effect on their performance at work and personal finances. Around one-third suffered an impact on career choice, job security, and their relationship with their partner. Regarding sexual health, the worst repercussions were noted on sex drive and body image perception, where close to half of the respondents reported at least some deterioration. Ejaculation and erectile function were affected in 30% of the participants. Of all participants, 17% reported issues with fertility, and the same proportion reported seeking medical help to conceive after diagnosis or treatment of TC. Conclusions: In conclusion, some TC survivors experience significant impact on their socio-economic and sexual health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)
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Review

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17 pages, 676 KB  
Review
Understanding Contemporary Endometrial Cancer Survivorship Issues: Umbrella Review and Healthcare Professional Survey
by Tracey DiSipio, Jemma Turner, William Da Silva, Elizabeth Driscoll, Marta Preston, Krystel Tran, Nicla Varnier-Lui, Hui-Ling Yeoh, Dayajyot Kaur, Kathryn Alsop, Sandra C. Hayes, Monika Janda and Rosalind R. Spence
Cancers 2025, 17(16), 2696; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17162696 - 19 Aug 2025
Viewed by 289
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Advances in endometrial cancer treatment, such as minimally invasive surgery and the introduction of targeted therapies, could influence survivorship and result in changes in issues experienced by survivors of endometrial cancer. To improve endometrial cancer survivorship, it is first necessary to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Advances in endometrial cancer treatment, such as minimally invasive surgery and the introduction of targeted therapies, could influence survivorship and result in changes in issues experienced by survivors of endometrial cancer. To improve endometrial cancer survivorship, it is first necessary to understand it. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to describe contemporary endometrial cancer survivorship issues. Methods: This study involved an umbrella review and cross-sectional survey of healthcare professionals. The umbrella review involved searching Medline (2013–2023) to identify published reviews describing survivorship outcomes in endometrial cancer survivors. Articles were screened and survivorship outcomes were extracted. Healthcare professionals working with patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer were asked to (1) rate the relevance of each survivorship outcome identified in the review, and (2) list any additional issues considered of clinical relevance. Results: Following the screening of 201 articles (159 papers excluded: n = 1 duplicate; n = 158 ineligible), 42 review articles were included and 25 survivorship outcomes identified including physical health (e.g., fatigue, pain), fertility (e.g., parity), quality of life (e.g., cognitive wellbeing), treatment-related toxicities, and mental health outcomes (e.g., anxiety). The cross-sectional survey was completed by 37 healthcare professionals (two-thirds being medical oncologists or gynaecological oncologists) working across Australia and New Zealand, with outcomes rated as relevant by 30% (for cachexia) to 100% (for body weight/obesity and functional wellbeing of respondents. An additional 28 survivorship issues not identified in the review were reported by healthcare professionals. Conclusions: The current endometrial cancer survivorship literature is limited. The review, together with expert input from healthcare professionals, identified 53 survivorship issues. These findings will now inform development of a survey to explore the frequency, impact, and severity of survivorship issues from the perspective of endometrial cancer survivors, the results of which will guide the provision of supportive cancer care, in addition to guiding research and clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)
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15 pages, 835 KB  
Review
Optimising Exercise for Managing Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in People Diagnosed with Cancer
by Dhiaan Sidhu, Jodie Cochrane Wilkie, Jena Buchan and Kellie Toohey
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2533; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152533 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 813
Abstract
Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common and debilitating side effect of cancer treatment. While exercise has shown promise in alleviating this burden, it remains underutilised in clinical practice due to the lack of accessible, clinician-friendly guidance. Aim: This review aimed to synthesise [...] Read more.
Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a common and debilitating side effect of cancer treatment. While exercise has shown promise in alleviating this burden, it remains underutilised in clinical practice due to the lack of accessible, clinician-friendly guidance. Aim: This review aimed to synthesise current evidence on exercise interventions for managing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and provide practical insights to support clinicians in integrating these approaches into patient care. Methods: A search was conducted across MEDLINE, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus using keywords related to exercise and CIPN. Studies were included if they involved adults receiving neurotoxic chemotherapy and exercise-based interventions. Two authors independently screened studies and resolved conflicts with a third author. Study quality was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Tools, and only studies meeting a minimum quality standard were included. A balanced sampling approach was employed. Data on study design, participant characteristics, interventions, and outcomes were extracted. Results: Eleven studies were included, covering various exercise modalities: multimodal (n = 5), yoga (n = 2), aerobic (n = 1), resistance (n = 1), balance (n = 1), and sensorimotor (n = 1). Exercise interventions, particularly multimodal exercise, significantly improved symptom severity, functionality, and quality of life (p < 0.05). The studies had high methodological quality, with randomised controlled trials scoring between 9/13 and 11/13, and quasi-experimental studies scoring 8/9 on JBI tools. Conclusions: This review highlights the significant benefits of exercise, especially multimodal exercise, for managing CIPN and provides guidance for integrating these strategies into clinical practice. Future research is needed to refine exercise prescriptions and develop standardised guidelines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Empowering Cancer Survivors: A Comprehensive Approach to Supportive Care Through Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Approaches Including Exercise, Physical Activity and Nutrition)
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