Psychosocial and quality-of-life sequelae incorporate aspects of survivorship relating to adaptation of the patient to the personal consequences of cancer diagnosis and treatment (issues of self-concept, body image, personal autonomy, coping strategies, intimacy, interpersonal and family interactions and living with uncertainty) and adjustment to the social consequences of cancer (societal and familial perceptions and expectations; altered interpersonal relationships, family roles and functions; and issues of financial stability, jobsecurity, health insurance, job lock or discrimination) (30,62).
Persons who have cancer experience the effect of the disease in many different ways and at different times. These issues in turn exert an effect on perceived quality of life and contribute to the meaning of cancer for the patient. The person’s age and the degree to which the disease and treatment effects threaten life goals and activities modify the meaning of cancer for an individual. At any age, disruption of function, even when
temporary, becomes disturbing if it involves valued life activities or forces a change in goals (30,58).