“It feels fantastic to receive this support! It allows us to conduct our research in a systematic and long-term way. But it also means a lot symbolically – it’s a confirmation that cancer rehabilitation is a relevant area that deserves more attention and resources,” says Ulrica Langegård.
Her research project evaluates a structured rehabilitation programme developed at the Regional Cancer Rehabilitation Centre at Sahlgrenska University Hospital. The six-month programme includes interventions such as physical activity, psychological support, nutritional counselling, and social reintegration, offered either in group settings or digitally.
“The goal is to strengthen patients’ confidence in their own abilities and enhance their involvement in their own care.”
Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation to Support Participation and Recovery
A central component of the project is interdisciplinary collaboration. The rehabilitation programme is delivered by a multi-professional team including nurses, physicians, psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, social workers, and sexologists.
“Rehabilitation requires a holistic perspective. By working across professional boundaries, we can develop more sustainable interventions that truly reflect the reality of patients’ lives,” says Langegård.
The project aims to enhance patient empowerment, increase engagement in healthcare, and improve conditions for returning to work after treatment.
“For the field of health and care sciences, this is an important acknowledgement of the significance of cancer rehabilitation. It highlights the role of research in developing evidence-based care and improving services through person-centred approaches. In the long term, this can contribute to better rehabilitation strategies to meet the complex needs of cancer survivors,” she adds.
Sexual Health and Long-Term Side Effects in Focus
Linda Åkeflo, a nurse with a background in radiation therapy and cancer rehabilitation, is leading a project focused on preventing pelvic health complications in women undergoing radiation therapy for gynaecological or anorectal cancers. These complications can affect both physical and sexual health and are often under-recognised in the care process.
“This support means a great deal. It gives me the opportunity to establish a research line and develop evidence-based methods that can be implemented in clinical practice. Sexual health is often underprioritised, yet it’s a fundamental aspect of people’s lives and well-being,” says Åkeflo.
Her project will explore whether early, targeted interventions – introduced before cancer treatment begins – can reduce the risk of radiation-induced vaginal injuries, which are common after pelvic radiotherapy. It will also examine how previous sexual trauma may influence women’s quality of life and care needs after treatment.
“For many years, I’ve worked clinically with follow-up care for women post-radiation. I’ve seen both the physical and psychosocial strain these women go through – especially in relation to sexual health, which remains partially taboo. That has only strengthened my drive to find ways to support these women – not just to survive, but to live well. On a broader level, I hope this project can help to highlight and integrate sexual health as a key component of general health in cancer care.”
Demonstrating the Relevance of Health and Care Sciences
Both projects are based on patients’ lived experiences and aim to strengthen participation in rehabilitation, while developing care models that are sustainable and cost-effective. The research is conducted within the Sahlgrenska Academy Research in Oncological Care (SAROC) group at the Institute of Health and Care Sciences, led by Professor Karin Ahlberg.
“I’m incredibly proud that two of our researchers have received this opportunity,” says Ahlberg. “It’s a testament to both their dedication and our way of working. We’ve built a research environment grounded in collaboration, inclusion, and clinical relevance. These fellowships are not just a matter of long-term funding – they are a clear recognition of the value health and care sciences bring to the future of cancer care.”
