@article{10.37349/emed.2026.1001437,
abstract = {Advances in colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment have led to a growing population of long-term survivors. Many experience persistent physical and psychological sequelae after surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic treatment, affecting not only patients but also partners, adult children, and other close family members, who often assume caregiving roles. This narrative review summarizes current knowledge on the burden experienced by family members of colorectal cancer survivors. It covers the chronic sequelae most relevant to family life, the psychological burden on caregivers, including depression, anxiety, and fear of recurrence, and the relational and dyadic impact on couples. It also addresses the practical, occupational, and financial challenges faced by families, the protective factors that promote resilience, and current intervention strategies and support models. Registry data consistently show that partners of cancer patients have a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and psychiatric hospitalization, a burden that often persists many years after treatment. Emotional distress within couples, fear of recurrence, and difficulties with intimacy and communication are mutually reinforcing. Everyday challenges such as bowel dysfunction, including low anterior resection syndrome, stoma care, and fatigue, add further strain. Couple-based and digital interventions show some benefit, but effects are generally modest. Across healthcare systems, family involvement in survivorship care remains inconsistent. Surgical and cancer care teams have an important opportunity to identify families at risk early, set realistic expectations, and connect them with appropriate psychosocial support.},
author = {Frandsen, Lukas Walther and Oggesen, Birthe Thing and Rosenberg, Jacob},
doi = {10.37349/emed.2026.1001437},
journal = {Exploration of Medicine},
elocation-id = {1001437},
title = {The hidden burden: chronic sequelae of colorectal cancer survivorship and the impact on family members—a narrative review},
url = {https://www.explorationpub.com/Journals/em/Article/1001437},
volume = {7},
year = {2026}
}