Transition from oncology to primary care: experience of long-term cancer survivors in a Brazilian high-complexity center

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to describe access to primary health care, adherence to preventive and surveillance recommendations, and the prevalence of late effects among long-term cancer survivors referred back to primary health care (PHC) after five years of treatment and follow-up at an Oncology High Complexity Care Center (CACON). METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the National Cancer Institute (INCA), in Brazil. Eligible participants were contacted by telephone and answered a structured questionnaire, with questions about sociodemographic data, lifestyle, and nutritional status, as well as on health promotion, prevention, and surveillance during the long-term cancer survivorship phase. RESULTS: Ninety-one cancer survivors participated in the study, with an average age of 69 ± 9.24 years. The most commonly reported late sequelae included cognitive difficulties, hormonal symptoms, sleep-related disorders and chronic pain. Less than half of the study participants reported being referred to a PHC unit after cancer treatment. Receipt of a discharge summary to be presented to primary care providers was reported by only 11 participants (12.1%). CONCLUSIONS: The specific needs of long-term cancer survivors require continuous follow-up by the health system, aiming to ensure comprehensive health care and quality of life.