Cancer survivors living with chronic pain: patient and healthcare professional perspectives and current recommendations

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chronic pain affects approximately 40% of cancer survivors and remains an under recognized and complex condition. This review is timely given the growing population of cancer survivors and the persistent gaps in evidence-based guidance for managing chronic post-cancer treatment pain. It synthesizes recent research (primarily since 2024) to inform clinical practice and future guideline development. RECENT FINDINGS: Three key themes emerged: inadequate pain assessment and communication, compounded by negative clinical and societal attitudes; opioid stigma and uncertainty regarding long-term benefits, creating barriers for both patients and clinicians; and the role of self-management strategies, including physical activity, psychological support, and multimodal approaches. SUMMARY: Findings underscore the need for updated clinical guidelines, enhanced education for healthcare professionals, and patient-centred strategies that integrate pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic options. Future research should prioritize robust intervention development and evaluation to improve quality of life and reduce the burden of chronic pain in cancer survivorship.