Clinical Research Directory

WellSpan-THRIVE Cancer QOL Study

Cancer affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly impact not only survival, but also day-to-day quality of life. Treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can cause side effects like fatigue, pain, and neuropathy, which may affect physical function, emotional well-being, and social relationships. While many studies have examined factors that influence quality of life; such as age, type and stage of cancer, and treatment-related symptoms; there is still a need for tools that more fully reflect patients' lived experiences. This study aims to develop and implement a patient-centered quality of life (QOL) survey designed specifically for individuals with cancer. By directly involving patients in sharing what matters most to them, the survey seeks to provide a more complete and accurate understanding of how cancer and its treatment affect daily life. The results will help patients, families, and healthcare providers better identify needs, guide supportive care, and improve overall well-being throughout the cancer journey.

Predictive Factors for Functional and Quality of Life Decline in Patients >65 Years With a Gastrointestinal Tract Cancer Diagnosis Taken to Curative Resectable Surgery

Introduction: Human life expectancy has increased significantly, leading to a transformation in the global demographic structure. Cancer is considerably more common among older adults compared to younger populations, as age is one of the main risk factors for its development. In fact, most solid tumors are considered age-related diseases. For this reason, the incidence of cancer among older individuals is expected to continue rising. Oncological care for this population group is particularly complex and represents a significant challenge, as comorbidities and the social aspects of aging create clinical scenarios that differ greatly from those seen in younger patients. Objective: To identify the predictive factors of functional decline and quality of life at 12 months of follow-up, as well as oncological outcomes at 5 years of follow-up, in patients aged 65 years and older with gastrointestinal cancer who undergo curative-intent resective surgery at Hospital Universitario Mayor - Méderi, Bogotá, Colombia. Methodology: Longitudinal and analytical observational study of prospective prognostic cohort type. Expected Results: Predictive model of functional decline and quality of life, as well as oncological outcomes, in patients with gastrointestinal cancer undergoing curative-intent surgical procedures.