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Kwena ZA, Oketch BA, Beres LK, Lewis-Kulzer J, Akama EO, Sang NM, Adhiambo HF, Iguna S, Ontuga GM, Nyandieka E, Shade S, Bukusi EA, Geng E, Abuogi LL. User-informed tailoring of electronic and in-person peer navigation strategies to improve retention in HIV care for adolescents and young adults: a qualitative inquiry. AIDS Care 2024; 36:993-1001. [PMID: 38838007 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2361821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Poor adherence and retention in HIV care remain a major challenge among adolescents and young adults (AYA) living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Strategies are urgently required to support AYA to remain in care for better health outcomes. We explored AYA preferences regarding the format and delivery of electronic and in-person peer navigation to improve HIV care outcomes. This formative qualitative study was conducted among AYA enrolled in HIV care at three clinics in western Kenya. We conducted two focus group discussions (FGDs) each with 8-9 participants (n = 17) purposively selected based on age, gender and clinic where they received care. The characteristics desired of a navigator are a person of the same age group and HIV status who has a good memory and is friendly and able to maintain confidentiality. AYA want the content of their interaction with the navigator to center on sharing motivational messages and also educating them on matters of HIV care, sexual and reproductive health and mental health. The preferred navigation formats for electronic communication are platforms considered confidential. AYA preferred interventions delivered through secure communication platforms by navigators with whom they have commonalities. The navigation interventions that prioritize confidentiality and holistic content will likely be most highly valued by AYA. Furthermore, electronic mechanisms can help support the relationship building that is at the core of our navigation approach and a fundamental aspect of social work in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Arochi Kwena
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bertha Akinyi Oketch
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Laura K Beres
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jayne Lewis-Kulzer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eliud Omondi Akama
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Norton Mutai Sang
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Sarah Iguna
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Gladys Moraa Ontuga
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Everlyne Nyandieka
- Center for Microbiology Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Starley Shade
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Elvin Geng
- School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lisa L Abuogi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
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Winter N, McKenzie K, Spence D, Lane K, Ugalde A. The experience of bereaved cancer carers in rural and regional areas: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the potential of peer support. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293724. [PMID: 37934771 PMCID: PMC10629652 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caring for someone with cancer during end of life care can be a challenging and complex experience. Those living in rural and regional areas are less likely to have local healthcare services and may be physically isolated. Even where support services such as respite do exist, they may be less likely to be accessed due to the time burden in travelling to services. This was compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. AIM To understand the potential benefits of peer support for bereaved carers of people with cancer from rural and regional locations during the COVID-19 period. METHODS Phone interviews were conducted with bereaved cancer carers living in rural and regional areas in Victoria. Semi-structured interviews were used, and participants were asked about their experience as a carer, bereavement and the potential for peer support. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim; transcripts were coded and a thematic analysis was conducted. FINDINGS 12 interviews were conducted. Carers were mostly female (85%) and were on average 58 years of age (range 42-71). Interviews lasted an average of 58 minutes (range 53-91 minutes). Three themes were derived from the data; 1) Supportive care needs while caring and the impact of COVID-19; 2) Isolation during bereavement compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic; and 3) Peer support requires flexibility to meet diverse needs. CONCLUSION Peer support has potential to assist bereaved carers of people with cancer. A co-design approach may be beneficial for developing a flexible model for supporting and linking carers together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Winter
- School of Nursing & Midwifery and Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kerry McKenzie
- Strategy and Support Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Danielle Spence
- Strategy and Support Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katherine Lane
- Strategy and Support Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anna Ugalde
- School of Nursing & Midwifery and Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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Cancer Survivors' Evolving Perceptions of a New Supportive Virtual Program. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:8431-8441. [PMID: 36354724 PMCID: PMC9689835 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29110664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
This qualitative study begins to explore cancer survivors' evolving perceptions of "Focus on the Future," a 6-week supportive virtual program led by trained volunteers and health care professionals. Through purposive sampling, participants (n = 10) enrolled in the program were individually interviewed shortly before attending, mid-way through, and at program completion. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to develop key elements of program expectations and users' perceptions over time. Three themes transpired from the data: (1) Trustworthiness and timeliness of survivorship information and expert guidance, (2) Normalization of survivors' experiences, and (3) Virtual program delivery issues. Some participants' perceptions remained unchanged from pre-program expectations to post-program completion such as appreciating the efficiency of virtual delivery and "health safe" exchanges given the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, other perceptions became more polarized including drawbacks related to "more superficial" virtual connections and uneven topic relevance as the program evolved. Program participants appreciated timely information and support from volunteers and experts through virtual means and consecutive weekly sessions. Gauging participants' perceptions across time also offer opportunities to adjust program content and delivery features. Future research should explore key program development strategies to ensure that cancer supportive programs are optimally person-centered, co-designed, and situation-responsive.
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Protoolis HA, Burton J, Riley L, Jancey J. More than memory: A qualitative analysis of carer-reported psychosocial benefits of Memory Cafés. Health Promot J Austr 2022; 33 Suppl 1:358-366. [PMID: 35023232 PMCID: PMC9788020 DOI: 10.1002/hpja.573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
ISSUE ADDRESSED Memory Cafés are a psychosocial intervention that aims to provide socialisation and interpersonal support for those living with dementia and their carers. This study explores the Memory Café model and determines the impact of the peer-to-peer Memory Café model on the psychosocial well-being of those living with dementia and their carers. METHODS Participants were informal carers of those living with dementia, recruited from four Memory Café's located in metropolitan Perth, Western Australia. Demographic information was collected from participants. Eleven semi-structured interviews were conducted. The data were transcribed and analysed thematically. RESULTS The benefits of participation are described under four themes; sharing experiences and reduction of stigma, a place to feel joy and be yourself, a time to socialise and build friendships and improvements in life outside the Memory Café. The positive attributes of the Memory Cafés that contributed to the benefits were also identified. Concerns about Memory Cafés were limited to it becoming a carers-only group. CONCLUSIONS Memory Cafés contribute significantly to the psychosocial well-being of carers of those living with dementia and provide a positive outlet for carers to build social networks and become active in their community. The effect on the psychosocial well-being of those living with dementia may be more limited but is still described positively. SO WHAT?: Dementia is a condition with significant impacts on carers and families. Successful peer-based social interventions such as Memory Cafés can lead to further development of dementia-friendly communities aimed at providing joy as well as support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly A. Protoolis
- School of Population HealthCurtin UniversityPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia,Present address:
School of MedicineUniversity of Notre Dame AustraliaFremantleWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Jason Burton
- Alzheimer’s Western AustraliaOsbourne ParkWestern AustraliaAustralia,Present address:
Dementia360PerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Layla Riley
- Alzheimer’s Western AustraliaOsbourne ParkWestern AustraliaAustralia,Present address:
Activ FoundationWembleyWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Jonine Jancey
- School of Population HealthCurtin UniversityPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
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Husted Nielsen I, Piil K, Tolver A, Grønbæk K, Kjeldsen L, Jarden M. Family caregiver ambassador support for caregivers of patients with newly diagnosed hematological cancer: a feasibility study. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:6923-6935. [PMID: 35543814 PMCID: PMC9091143 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07089-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigated the feasibility of a one-on-one peer support intervention in family caregivers of newly diagnosed patients with a hematological cancer during initial treatment. METHODS The study was a one-arm feasibility study including family caregivers of newly diagnosed patients with hematological cancer (n = 26) and caregiver ambassadors who were family caregivers of previously treated patients as peer supporters (n = 17). The one-on-one peer support intervention consisted of three components: a caregiver ambassador preparatory course; 12 weeks of one-on-one peer support, and caregiver ambassador network meetings. RESULTS Family caregivers reported high satisfaction with the delivery and flexibility of one-on-one peer support and improved in most psychosocial outcomes over time. Telephone and text messages were the most used form of contact between the peers. Caregiver ambassadors reported high satisfaction with the preparatory course and used the available support from the network meetings. No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSION One-on-one peer support provided by a caregiver ambassador is feasible and safe in family caregivers of newly diagnosed hematological cancer patients during their initial treatment. Utilizing volunteer caregiver ambassadors has the potential to be a new support model in family caregivers of hematological cancer patients across diagnostic groups within a clinical setting. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04039100, July 29, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iben Husted Nielsen
- Department of Haematology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Karin Piil
- Department of Oncology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Anders Tolver
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Data Science Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Grønbæk
- Department of Haematology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Biotech Research & Innovation Centre (BRIC), University of Copenhagen, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Kjeldsen
- Department of Haematology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mary Jarden
- Department of Haematology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Lefebvre T, Tack L, Meersman M, Vanneste H, Cool L, Van Eygen K, Stellamans K, Derijcke S, Vergauwe P, De Backer J, Chandler R, Lane P, Boterberg T, R. Debruyne P. Developing and evaluating a participatory arts programme for cancer patients and their caregivers. Acta Clin Belg 2022; 77:18-24. [PMID: 32515661 DOI: 10.1080/17843286.2020.1773653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cancer patients, survivors and caregivers often encounter severe distress, having significant consequences to wellbeing, functionality and physical health. This study developed and evaluated a participatory arts programme to determine if such could help to improve the wellbeing of cancer patients and their caregivers. METHODS To inform the development of a participatory arts programme, cancer patients and their caregivers at an Organisation of European Cancer Institute (OECI)-designated cancer centre were asked which activities they would wish to engage in (anonymous survey one). A programme was then developed and trialled for 1 year. Following participation, we explored the satisfaction and any benefits of taking part (anonymous survey two). RESULTS Survey one had a participation rate of 70%. In this survey, participants indicated they preferred group-based activities (61%) over an individual approachto take place on a monthly basis (46%). The developed programme ran from December 2018 to December 2019, with 435 patients and caregivers taking part. Two hundred and eighteen completed survey two and revealed a positive response to both the structure and content of the programme and its impact on the wellbeing of patients and caregivers. The majority indicated they felt (much) betterfrom participating in the participatory arts programme. CONCLUSION This study points out the interest and potential value of a participatory arts programme to the perceived wellbeing. This suggests such programmes could be incorporated into cancer care provision, to serve as psychosocial support. The latter is particularly relevant for improving the lives, wellbeing and health of cancer patients and those supporting them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Lefebvre
- Department of Medical Oncology, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
- Department of Radiotherapy and Experimental Cancer Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Laura Tack
- Department of Medical Oncology, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
- Department of Radiotherapy and Experimental Cancer Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marlies Meersman
- Department of Medical Oncology, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Hilde Vanneste
- Department of Medical Oncology, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Lieselot Cool
- Department of Medical Oncology, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Van Eygen
- Department of Haematology, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Karin Stellamans
- Department of Radiation Oncology, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Sofie Derijcke
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Philippe Vergauwe
- Department of Gastro-enterology, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Jos De Backer
- Department of Music, LUCA School of Arts, Association KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rebecca Chandler
- Positive Ageing Research Institute (PARI), Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Pauline Lane
- Positive Ageing Research Institute (PARI), Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Tom Boterberg
- Department of Radiotherapy and Experimental Cancer Research, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Philip R. Debruyne
- Department of Medical Oncology, General Hospital Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium
- Positive Ageing Research Institute (PARI), Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
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7
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Vanstrum EB, Doherty JK, Sinha UK, Voelker CCJ, Bassett AM. An Exploration of Online Support Community Participation Among Patients With Vestibular Disorders. Laryngoscope 2021; 132:1835-1842. [PMID: 34889460 DOI: 10.1002/lary.29969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS To formally document online support community (OSC) use among patients with vestibular symptoms and gain an appreciation for the perceived influence of participation on psychosocial outcomes and the impact on medical decision-making. STUDY DESIGN Self reported internet-based questionnaire. METHODS The Facebook search function was paired with a comprehensive list of vestibular diagnoses to systematically collect publicly available information on vestibular OSCs. Next, a survey was designed to gather clinicodemographic information, OSC characteristics, participation measures, perceived outcomes, and influence on medical decision-making. The anonymous instrument was posted to two OSCs that provide support for patients with general vestibular symptoms. RESULTS Seventy-three OSCs were identified with >250,000 cumulative members and >10,000 posts per month. The survey was completed by 549 participants, a cohort of primarily educated middle-aged (median = 50, interquartile range 40-60), non-Hispanic white (84%), and female (89%) participants. The participants' most cited initial motivation and achieved goal of participants was to hear from others with the same diagnosis (89% and 88%, respectively). Daily users and those who reported seeing ≥5 providers before receiving a diagnosis indicated that OSC utilization significantly influenced their requested medical treatments (72% daily vs. 61% nondaily, P = .012; 61% <5 providers vs. 71% ≥5 providers P = .019, respectively). Most participants agreed that OSC engagement provides emotional support (74%) and helps to develop coping strategies (68%). Membership of ≥1 year was associated with a higher rate of learned coping skills (61% membership <1-year vs. 71% ≥1-year P = .016). CONCLUSIONS The use of OSCs is widespread among vestibular diagnoses. A survey of two OSCs suggests these groups provide a significant source of peer support and can influence users' ability to interface with the medical system. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE N/A Laryngoscope, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik B Vanstrum
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A
| | - Joni K Doherty
- Caruso Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A
| | - Uttam K Sinha
- Caruso Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A
| | - Courtney C J Voelker
- Caruso Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A
| | - Alaina M Bassett
- Caruso Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A
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Walshe C, Roberts D, Calman L, Appleton L, Croft R, Perez Algorta G, Skevington S, Lloyd-Williams M, Grande G. Peer Mentors for People with Advanced Cancer: Lessons Learnt from Recruiting and Training Peer Mentors for a Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2021; 36:710-718. [PMID: 31994006 PMCID: PMC8328854 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-020-01692-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Peer mentors may offer distinctive forms of support to people with advanced cancer. Whilst peer mentor programmes are known, little is understood about recruiting and training peer mentors to support those with advanced cancer. The purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility of recruiting and training peer mentors for a novel peer mentor intervention to promote well-being in people with advanced cancer. Feasibility study testing proactive introduction to a trained peer mentor for 12 weeks in the context of a randomized controlled two-arm trial and nested qualitative process evaluation was used. Peer mentors have/had cancer, recruited via an open call. Two-day training included a new bespoke module on coping with cancer. Descriptive recruitment and training data were captured, supplemented by qualitative interviews, analysed thematically. Forty-eight people expressed interest, mostly female (69%), with breast cancer (32%), and recruited via social media (49%). Twelve people completed training, with attrition often due to availability or mentors' own health; many had advanced cancer themselves. They wanted to 'give something back', but also formed supportive bonds with fellow mentors. It is feasible to recruit and train people with lived experience of cancer to be peer mentors, but those with particular characteristics may predominate. Broad social media based recruitment may have merit in widening the pool of potential peer mentors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Walshe
- International Observatory on End of Life Care, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK.
| | - Diane Roberts
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, Manchester University, Manchester, UK
| | - Lynn Calman
- Macmillan Survivorship Research Group, School of Health Sciences, Southampton University, Southampton, UK
| | - Lynda Appleton
- Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Wirral, UK
| | | | | | - Suzanne Skevington
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, School of Psychological Sciences, Manchester University, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Gunn Grande
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, Manchester University, Manchester, UK
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Spence D. Isolated already, how COVID-19 has exacerbated anxiety for Australian cancer patients. Psychooncology 2020; 29:1427-1429. [PMID: 32672851 PMCID: PMC7405219 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Spence
- Cancer Strategy and Support, Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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10
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Morton C, Muller S, Bucknall M, Gilbert K, Mallen CD, Hider SL. Examining management and research priorities in patients with polymyalgia rheumatica: a primary care questionnaire survey. Clin Rheumatol 2019; 38:1767-1772. [PMID: 30617599 PMCID: PMC6544756 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-018-04405-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction/objectives Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a common inflammatory disorder that is usually managed with oral glucocorticoids, which although effective can cause significant adverse events. Support group survey data suggests length of glucocorticoid treatment and managing side effects are key priority areas of management for patients. Recognising that not all patients will access patient support organisations, our objective was to identify priorities for PMR management and research among primary care PMR patients. Method All adults aged ≥ 50 years registered with 150 English general practices who had a first read code for PMR in their medical records in the preceding 3 years were mailed a self-completion questionnaire (n = 704). Survey items included questions regarding patient priorities for PMR management (from a pre-defined list of 10 items) and suggestions for future research (8 items, plus a free-text option), which were developed in collaboration with PMRGCAuk. Results Five hundred fifty patients responded (78%). The mean (SD) age was 74.1 (8.5) years and 361 (66%) were female. Priority research areas were focused on how to better manage pain, stiffness and fatigue (431, 78%), improving the diagnosis of PMR (393, 71%) and steroid management (342, 62%). Conclusions This survey of PMR patients suggests that symptom management, early diagnosis and managing medication are key areas for patients for future research. Researchers and funding organisations should be aware of these priorities if we are to generate research findings that are relevant to the widest range of stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Morton
- Research Institute for Primary Care and Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK.
| | - Sara Muller
- Research Institute for Primary Care and Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Milica Bucknall
- Research Institute for Primary Care and Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | | | - Christian D Mallen
- Research Institute for Primary Care and Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Samantha L Hider
- Research Institute for Primary Care and Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK.,Haywood Academic Rheumatology Centre, Midlands Partnership Foundation Trust, Stafford, UK
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11
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Peer support interventions for breast cancer patients: a systematic review. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2019; 174:325-341. [PMID: 30600413 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-018-5033-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Due to the clear efficacy of peer support as a means of improving emotional well-being and healthy behaviors in a highly cost-effective manner, this program is widely used. Controversy remains, however, with regard to its efficacy in breast cancer patients. Given the heterogeneity of peer support interventions, this review aimed to categorize, assess, and synthesize the existing evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to clarify the effects of different types of peer support on breast cancer patients. METHODS We searched Pubmed, EMBase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, PsychINFO, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang Data for English and Chinese language RCTs. The Cochrane Collaboration 'risk of bias' tool for systematic reviews was used to assess the methodological quality of each RCT. RESULTS Of the 1494 studies screened, 15 studies met eligibility criteria for inclusion, comprising 1695 breast cancer patients. Overall, there were more positive effects than invalid or negative effects across peer interventions, with notable exceptions: unmoderated and unstructured group peer support interventions as well as Internet-based models without peer training had no effect or adverse effects on proximal and distal outcomes. However, adding other peer roles to the peer support structure or using one-on-one models could significantly improve the patients' negative emotions. Peer education showed promising effects on stress management, quality of life, and healthy behaviors. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review found that different types of peer support have different effects on outcomes for breast cancer patients. Web-based group peer support without peer training must be avoided or used with caution in the future. Peer education is recommended for breast cancer patient support models, given its excellent results and cost-effectiveness.
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