Symptom clusters and predominant symptoms in lymphoma survivorship: a cross-sectional study using trend analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This study explored symptom clusters (SCs) and predominant symptoms in lymphoma survivorships at least 1 month after treatment.

Methods: A cross-sectional trend study design was adopted. Inclusion criteria were participants who were over the age of 20, diagnosed with lymphoma, and 1 month after treatment concluded. The symptoms were assessed by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Scale-Lymphoma Subscale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, latent profile analysis (LPA), and comparisons of means and frequencies of each symptom in each SC.

Results: A total of 234 lymphoma survivors completed this study. Three SCs were identified at < 2 and > 5 years and two SCs at 2-5 years. Worrying about getting new symptoms and infections emerged as predominant symptoms across all SCs over time. This study provides insights into the symptom experiences of survivors of lymphoma and highlights the significant role of worry-related symptoms in their survivorship.

Conclusion: Through the use of LPA and a trend study design, we identified distinct SCs in lymphoma survivors, providing valuable insights into their longitudinal symptom experiences. The findings emphasize the complexity of symptomatology in lymphoma survivorship and underscore the importance of employing advanced statistical methods to explore and understand these clusters comprehensively, informing targeted interventions and improved care strategies.

Keywords: Lymphoma; Predominant symptom; Survivorship; Symptom cluster.