“As more people survive cancer, the quality of life after treatment has become increasingly important. To gain better insight into this aspect, my colleagues and I implemented PROMs: Patient-Reported Outcome Measures. In these questionnaires, we ask patients about their potential symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, or cognitive problems like difficulties with concentration or memory loss. Their responses generate specific scores that their physician can discuss during consultations. This reveals symptoms that may be less visible, which can then be addressed through a referral to the Center for Quality of Life, for instance.
When we got started, these questionnaires were only used for patients with breast cancer or melanoma, but they are now implemented throughout the entire hospital. It’s remarkable to see how motivated patients are to complete them, which motivated me in turn. In other projects, I focused more specifically on cognitive problems. Some people describe these issues as if their head is ‘in the clouds.’ I’ve illustrated the cover of my PhD thesis with these clouds. It’s a photo I took during a mountain hike. I love sports and reading, which helps me stay physically and mentally fit.”
Elaine Albers will defend her thesis on November 13.
prof. dr. L.V. van de Poll-Franse & prof. dr. S.B. Schagen
dr. K.M. de Ligt