Restorative Oncodermatology: Piloting an Educational Pamphlet to Address Dermatologic Sequelae in Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Cancer survivors frequently experience dermatologic sequelae related to cancer therapy that, while often non–life-threatening, may negatively affect quality of life and psychosocial well-being. Despite their prevalence, these concerns are under-addressed in survivorship care, and accessible survivor-centered educational resources are limited. We conducted a cross-sectional pilot study evaluating an educational pamphlet designed to provide introductory guidance on common post-treatment skin, hair, and nail changes and general management strategies. Adult cancer survivors were recruited through a national volunteer research registry and an in-person multidisciplinary survivorship clinic at a tertiary-care cancer center. Participants reviewed a printed or digital pamphlet and completed surveys assessing prior dermatologic education, therapy-related changes, satisfaction with dermatologic information before and after pamphlet review, and qualitative feedback. Descriptive statistics and chi-square analyses were performed. Among 105 respondents, most were female (85.7%), White (85.7%), and aged ≥60 years (60%). The majority reported therapy-related dermatologic effects (76.2%), yet few had previously received education on managing these concerns (9.5%). After reviewing the pamphlet, 75.8% found it helpful or very helpful, and satisfaction with both the amount and quality of dermatologic information obtained significantly increased post-intervention (p<.001). Qualitative feedback emphasized the need for earlier access to this education during their cancer journey, further details, and information regarding cost and access. These findings support the feasibility and acceptability of survivor-focused dermatologic education and underscore the need for longitudinal studies evaluating impact on patient engagement, care utilization, and outcomes across diverse survivor populations.