# OPTILATER: optimal long-term survival after cancer – a cross-sectional study protocol for a quantitative survey on the care situation of long-term cancer survivors in Germany

## TL;DR

This study aims to understand the challenges faced by long-term cancer survivors in Germany and improve their post-treatment care.

## Contribution

The study introduces a large-scale survey protocol to assess the care needs of diverse long-term cancer survivors in Germany.

## Key findings

- The survey will assess experiences with care, including diet, mental health, and quality of life.
- It will focus on vulnerable groups, such as those with migration backgrounds.
- Findings will inform inclusive care strategies for long-term cancer survivors.

## Abstract

Cancer survivors in Germany face considerable challenges related to the late and long-term effects of treatment and a lack of post-treatment support. Despite an increasing number of cancer survivors, existing healthcare systems are insufficiently adapted to meet their ongoing needs, particularly for long-term survivors who may experience physical, emotional, and socio-economic hardships. This study aims to address the knowledge gaps in the care situation of long-term cancer survivors, focusing on their experiences and the barriers they face in accessing care.

This study protocol outlines the methodology for a quantitative survey involving up to 3,300 long-term cancer survivors across various cancer types in Germany. The survey assesses their experiences with cancer care, focusing on diet, exercise, mental health, sleep, cognition, overall health-related quality of life, and somatic late effects. Special attention is given to survivors from diverse socio-demographic backgrounds, including those with a migration history, in order to explore the unique challenges they face.

The results of the study will contribute to the development of needs-based care recommendations for cancer survivors, particularly those in potentially vulnerable groups. The findings will inform the design of more inclusive care strategies and interventions, leading to better long-term health outcomes for cancer survivors in Germany.

German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00032146, registered on 03/12/2024.