Survivors' perspectives on cancer: Results from a LIVESTRONG survey.

9089 Background: There are nearly 12 million cancer survivors in the United States, making late effects caused by cancer and its treatment-for both those diagnosed with the disease and their loved ones-a public health priority. METHODS In 2010, the Lance Armstrong Foundation fielded its third LIVESTRONG Survey for People Affected by Cancer. The primary goals of the more than 300 question survey were to 1) assess the physical, emotional and practical needs of post-treatment cancer survivors (PTCS) and whether and from whom PCTS received care and 2) gauge the impact of cancer on survivors' loved ones. Individuals were asked to participate in this survey through a number of means (including partnerships with national cancer organizations such as ASCO and NCI-designated cancer centers). RESULTS Between June 2010 and January 2011, 11,680 surveys were completed, including 3,798 from PTCS. Overall, the vast majority of PTCS experienced physical, emotional and/or practical concerns as a result of having cancer. The table highlights commonly reported concerns. As many as 58% PTCS did not receive the help they needed, because they had "learned to live with their concerns." Survivors' loved ones, reported that their overall outlook on life had been both positively and negatively impacted by cancer (51%), with an additional 18% reporting their outlook had been only positively impacted and 19% reporting their outlook had been only or mostly negatively impacted. CONCLUSIONS Physical, emotional, and practical concerns are prevalent among PTCS, yet many do not receive care for these concerns. Their cancer journeys affect their loved ones in varied and complex ways. Data from this large-scale survey enables the voice of people affected by cancer to play a role in guiding programs and policies to meet the needs of this large and growing population. [Table: see text].