Factors associated with cancer-related pain among Utah cancer survivors

Abstract

Purpose: To identify clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with cancer-related pain among Utah cancer survivors 2-5 years after diagnosis.

Methods: Participants include 2232 Utah cancer survivors diagnosed with invasive cancers at ages 18 + who responded to a probability-based sample survey administered by the Utah Cancer Registry from 2018 to 2023. Participants self-reported cancer-related pain status and methods of pain control. We calculated counts and percentages and used logistic regression to identify sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with cancer-related pain. All analyses were weighted to account for complex survey sample design and age-adjusted to the Utah cancer survivor population.

Results: Twenty-two percent of survivors reported currently experiencing physical pain caused by their cancer or cancer treatment. Of those reporting pain, 24% reported their pain was not under control, 40% indicated their pain was under control with medication, and 36% reported it was under control without medication. The most frequently used pain control methods were nonopioid analgesics (49%) and physical activity (37%). In multivariable models, younger survivors, those either underweight or obese, survivors of breast cancer, and those facing material financial hardships were more likely to report cancer-related pain.

Conclusion: Twenty-two percent of Utah cancer survivors experienced pain related to their cancer or cancer treatment. For some, this pain is well managed, but approximately a quarter have uncontrolled pain.

Implications for cancer survivors: Cancer-related pain is not solely associated with clinical features, and the findings here can guide clinicians and researchers toward a better understanding of the needs of cancer survivors and tailor pain management treatments to this unique population.

Keywords: Cancer; Cancer survivor; Chronic pain; Social determinants of health.