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Bader H, Farraj H, Maghnam J, Abu Omar Y. Investigating the therapeutic efficacy of psilocybin in advanced cancer patients: A comprehensive review and meta-analysis. World J Clin Oncol 2024; 15:908-919. [DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v15.i7.908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms, is known for its effects on anxiety and depression. It has recently gained increasing interest for its potential therapeutic effects, particularly in patients with advanced cancer. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the effects of psilocybin on adult patients with advanced cancer.
AIM To investigate the therapeutic effect of psilocybin in patients with advanced cancer.
METHODS A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar for articles published up to February 2023. The reference lists of the included studies were also searched to retrieve possible additional studies.
RESULTS A total of 7 studies met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review, comprising 132 participants. The results revealed significant improvements in quality of life, pain control, and anxiety relief following psilocybin-assisted therapy, specifically results on anxiety relief. Pooled effect sizes indicated statistically significant reductions in symptoms of anxiety at both 4 to 4.5 months [35.15 (95%CI: 32.28-38.01)] and 6 to 6.5 months [33.06 (95%CI: 28.73-37.40)]. Post-administration compared to baseline assessments (P < 0.05). Additionally, patients reported sustained improvements in psychological well-being and existential distress following psilocybin therapy.
CONCLUSION The findings provided compelling evidence for the potential benefits of psilocybin-assisted therapy in improving quality of life, pain control, and anxiety relief in patients with advanced cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Husam Bader
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Husam Farraj
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87106, United States
| | - Joud Maghnam
- Faculty of Medicine, AL-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt 19110, Jordan
| | - Yazan Abu Omar
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
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2
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Garcia ACM, Maia LO, Reed PG. Exploring Psychedelics for Alleviating Existential and Spiritual Suffering in People With Serious Illnesses: Links to the Theory of Self-Transcendence. J Holist Nurs 2024:8980101241257836. [PMID: 38809663 DOI: 10.1177/08980101241257836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The fields of palliative and holistic Nursing are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for the person, emphasizing special attention to the existential and spiritual aspects of care. Psychedelic-assisted therapy has emerged as a promising approach for symptom management in individuals with serious illnesses, particularly those of existential and spiritual origin. People who undergo challenging experiences, as is the case with serious illnesses, often undergo an identity crisis and question the purpose of their lives. Psychedelic therapy, when conducted properly by trained professionals, can facilitate self-exploration and self-transcendence, opening doors to states of expanded consciousness and fostering a profound connection with oneself. This experience can help patients develop a greater sense of self-awareness and a deeper understanding of their existential and spiritual issues, enabling them to find meaning and inner peace. The Theory of Self-Transcendence theory provides a Nursing framework for understanding how psychedelic-assisted therapy can facilitate, through self-transcendence, the journey of spiritual and existential healing, offering the possibility of achieving wellbecoming from a state of vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucas Oliveira Maia
- Federal University of Alfenas University of Campinas Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte
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3
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Bennett CR, Doyon K, Barnard JG, Tofthagen C, Galchutt P, Coats HL, Hendricks-Ferguson VL. "God is going to help me get through this": spirituality perspectives from Hispanic adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:348. [PMID: 38743085 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08550-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Describe spirituality's role in a sample of Hispanic adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors. METHODS This phenomenology-informed convergent parallel mixed-methods study aimed to explore participants' lived experiences with hope during cancer treatments and cancer survivorship. A purposive sample of Hispanic AYAs who completed cancer treatments 2-5 years ago were virtually recruited for participation. Participants completed virtual semi-structured interviews about their experiences with hope during cancer treatments and cancer survivorship and prepared narratives about their experiences. Thematic analyses were iteratively performed across the data set to identify final themes. RESULTS Ten Hispanic AYA cancer survivors (mean age 30.2, SD = 4.5) years participated in this pilot study. Seven participants (70%) were female, and three participants (30%) were male. Six participants (60%) experienced non-hematologic malignancies, and four participants (40%) experienced hematologic malignancies. Eight (80%) participants' language preference was Spanish, while two (20%) participants' language preference was English. The theme spirituality and subthemes living by faith, god as a resource, and spiritual gratitude were identified as concepts participants linked to their conceptualization of hope during cancer treatment and survivorship. CONCLUSIONS Hope and spirituality may be conceptually linked to coping behaviors among Hispanic AYA cancer survivors. Hope through faith may be a learned spiritual value in Hispanic AYAs and might play a role in their spiritual and cognitive development. Further research is needed to explore the potentially protective value of hope and spirituality for the Hispanic AYA population.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Robert Bennett
- Division of Nursing Research, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 5777 E Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
| | - Katherine Doyon
- School of Nursing, Boise State University, Norco Building, 1910 University Drive, Boise, ID, USA
| | - Juliana G Barnard
- Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research Core (QM2), ACCORDS (Adult and Child Center for Outcomes Research and Delivery Science), Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine | Children's Hospital Colorado, Mailstop F443, 1890 North Revere Court, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Cindy Tofthagen
- Division of Nursing Research, Mayo Clinic Florida, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Paul Galchutt
- Department of Transforming Chaplaincy, Rush University, 1653 W Congress Pkwy #12, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Heather L Coats
- College of Nursing, University of Colorado, Education 2 North, Room 4240 Mail Stop C288-18, 13120 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Verna L Hendricks-Ferguson
- Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing, Saint Louis University, 3525 Caroline Mall, Office #526, Saint Louis, MO, USA
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Thomas C, Kulikowksi JD, Breitbart W, Alici Y, Bruera E, Blackler L, Sulmasy DP. Existential suffering as an indication for palliative sedation: Identifying and addressing challenges. Palliat Support Care 2024:1-4. [PMID: 38419195 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951524000336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Columba Thomas
- Kennedy Institute of Ethics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Julia D Kulikowksi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - William Breitbart
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yesne Alici
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative Care, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Liz Blackler
- Ethics Committee, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Daniel P Sulmasy
- Kennedy Institute of Ethics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
- Departments of Medicine and Philosophy and the Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
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Antonio MG, Veinot TC. From illness management to quality of life: rethinking consumer health informatics opportunities for progressive, potentially fatal illnesses. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2024; 31:674-691. [PMID: 38134954 PMCID: PMC10873853 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocad234] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Investigate how people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-an example of a progressive, potentially fatal illness-are using digital technologies (DTs) to address illness experiences, outcomes and social connectedness. MATERIALS AND METHODS A transformative mixed methods study was conducted in Canada with people with COPD (n = 77) or with a progressive lung condition (n = 6). Stage-1 interviews (n = 7) informed the stage-2 survey. Survey responses (n = 80) facilitated the identification of participants for stage-3 interviews (n = 13). The interviews were thematically analyzed. Descriptive statistics were calculated for the survey. The integrative mixed method analysis involved mixing between and across the stages. RESULTS Most COPD participants (87.0%) used DTs. However, few participants frequently used DTs to self-manage COPD. People used DTs to seek online information about COPD symptoms and treatments, but lacked tailored information about illness progression. Few expressed interest in using DTs for self- monitoring and tracking. The regular use of DTs for intergenerational connections may facilitate leaving a legacy and passing on traditions and memories. Use of DTs for leisure activities provided opportunities for connecting socially and for respite, reminiscing, distraction and spontaneity. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION We advocate reconceptualizing consumer health technologies to prioritize quality of life for people with a progressive, potentially fatal illness. "Quality of life informatics" should focus on reducing stigma regarding illness and disability and taboo towards death, improving access to palliative care resources and encouraging experiences to support social, emotional and mental health. For DTs to support people with fatal, progressive illnesses, we must expand informatics strategies to quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcy G Antonio
- School of Information, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
- School of Health Information Science, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada
| | - Tiffany C Veinot
- School of Information, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
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6
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Xu G, Zheng J, Lin X, Wu H, Yang S, Xiao H, Lin X. Existential distress and associated factors in advanced cancer patients: A cross-sectional study. Palliat Support Care 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38362710 DOI: 10.1017/s147895152400018x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced cancer patients often experience existential distress (ED). However, the factors associated with ED remain unclear. This study investigated the current state of ED and identified the associated factors in Chinese patients with advanced cancer. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 352 advanced cancer patients from 3 tertiary hospitals in Fujian, China. Participants were invited to complete the Existential Distress Scale, Number Rating Scale, Self-Perceived Burden Scale, Quality of Life Concerns in the End-of-Life Questionnaire, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate the level of existential distress among advanced cancer patients in China and identify the associated factors. RESULTS A total of 352 advanced cancer patients were recruited for this study. The average score for ED was 8.48 ± 7.12 among the advanced cancer patients. Multiple regression showed that the associated factors included depression (β = 0.32, p = 0.000), self-perceived burden (SPB) (β = 0.18, p = 0.001), the presence of a spouse (β = -0.10, p = 0.050), and reception of government subsidies (β = 0.17, p = 0.001). The factors accounted for 30.1% of the total variance in ED (F = 8.472, p < 0.001). SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Among the advanced cancer patients queried, ED was found to be positively influenced by depression, SPB, and reception of government subsidies and negatively influenced by the presence of a spouse. Depression was the most important risk factor, and thus future ED interventions should target depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiru Xu
- School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jianwei Zheng
- Department of Oncology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaodan Lin
- School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hong Wu
- Fujian Provincial Hospice, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shangwang Yang
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Huimin Xiao
- School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Lin
- Department of Oncology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
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7
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Bovero A, Botto R, Mellano E, Gottardo F, Berchialla P, Carletto S, Geminiani GC. Loss of Personal Autonomy and Dignity-Related Distress in End-Of-Life Cancer Patients. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024; 41:179-186. [PMID: 36974952 DOI: 10.1177/10499091231166373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this cross-sectional study is to investigate Dignity-Related Loss of Personal Autonomy (DR-LPA) intended as loss of relational independence causing dignity-related distress. Moreover, it analyzes its possible relationships with demoralization, spirituality, quality of life, hope, and coping styles in a sample composed of 207 end-of-life cancer patients. These variables have been assessed through the following rating scales: Patient Dignity Inventory - Italian version, Demoralization Scale - Italian version, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Scale - General Measure, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy - Spiritual Well-Being, Brief Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced, and Herth Hope Index. The results have shown that most of the DR-LPA items were considered a problem by most patients. Functional, social, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing, disheartenment, age, and sex emerged as significant predictors of DR-LPA. In conclusion, this study showed that DR-LPA can be a relevant concern for patients at the end-of-life and for this reason it becomes necessary for psychosocial provides to consider it to deliver better dignity conserving care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Bovero
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Rossana Botto
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Elena Mellano
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesco Gottardo
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Berchialla
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Sara Carletto
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuliano C Geminiani
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Kissane DW. Education and assessment of psycho-existential symptoms to prevent suicidality in cancer care. Psychooncology 2024; 33:e5519. [PMID: 33463852 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David W Kissane
- University of Notre Dame Australia and Cunningham Centre for Palliative Care Research, St Vincent's Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Cabrini Health Psycho-oncology and Palliative Care, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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9
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Brechbiel JK, Willis KD, Reid MP, Lanoye A, Aslanzadeh FJ, Fox AM, Braun SE, Loughan AR. Primary brain tumor representation in the post-traumatic growth literature: A scoping review. Neurooncol Pract 2024; 11:26-35. [PMID: 38222049 PMCID: PMC10785581 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npad058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Post-traumatic growth (PTG) has been extensively explored within general oncology, yet little is known about the experience of PTG in neuro-oncology. This study aimed to determine the representation of patients with primary brain tumors (PBT) in the PTG literature. Methods PsycINFO, PubMed, and CINAHL were systematically searched from inception to December 2022. Search terms were related to personal growth and positive reactions to cancer. Articles were first screened by titles and abstracts, then full texts were reviewed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses method. Results A total of 382 articles met the inclusion criteria. Of those, 13 included patients with PBT. Over 100 000 cancer patients were represented, with 0.79% having a PBT. Most research focused on low-grade gliomas. PTG negatively correlated with post-traumatic stress symptoms and avoidant coping. In the sole longitudinal study, patients with PBT demonstrated improved PTG after 1 year. Three quasi-experimental studies investigated the effect of mindfulness-based interventions with mixed-cancer samples and demonstrated improvement in PTG. Conclusions The inclusion rate of patients with PBT in the PTG literature was significantly lower than the population prevalence rate (1.3% of cancer diagnoses). Relatively few studies focused exclusively on how patients with PBT experience PTG (k = 5), and those that did only included low-grade glioma. The experience of PTG in those with high-grade glioma remains unknown. Patients with PBT are scarcely included in research on PTG interventions. Few studies examined the relationship between PTG and medical, cognitive, or psychological characteristics. Our understanding of the PTG experience in neuro-oncology remains extremely limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia K Brechbiel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kelcie D Willis
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Morgan P Reid
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Autumn Lanoye
- School of Medicine, Department of Health Behavior and Policy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Farah J Aslanzadeh
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Amber M Fox
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Sarah Ellen Braun
- Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Ashlee R Loughan
- Massey Cancer Center, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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10
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Merluzzi TV, Salamanca-Balen N, Philip EJ, Salsman JM, Chirico A. Integration of Psychosocial Theory into Palliative Care: Implications for Care Planning and Early Palliative Care. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:342. [PMID: 38254831 PMCID: PMC10813714 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16020342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Palliative care improves patients' symptoms, quality of life and family satisfaction with caregiving, reduces hospital admissions and promotes alignment of medical care with the patient's needs and goals. This article proposes the utility of integrating three psychosocial theories into standard palliative care with implications for care planning, early palliative care and optimizing quality of life. First, Control Theory focuses on the complex juxtaposition of promoting agency/empowerment in patients and carers and coping with often highly uncertain outcomes. Second, Optimal Matching Theory accounts for the alignment of need and provision of care to potentiate the quality of life effects of supportive care in a complex social process involving health care providers, patients and carers. Third, Hope Theory represents a dynamic process, which is marked by variation in the qualities of hope as the patient and carer confront challenges during palliative care. Future work will be translational in nature to adapt both assessment and interventions based on this theoretically driven augmentation of palliative care as well as to evaluate whether it provides a conceptual framework that has incremental utility in palliative care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas V. Merluzzi
- Department of Psychology, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA;
| | | | - Errol J. Philip
- School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
| | - John M. Salsman
- Department of Social Sciences and Health Policy, Atrium Health—Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA;
| | - Andrea Chirico
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy;
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11
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Walbaum C, Philipp R, Oechsle K, Ullrich A, Vehling S. Existential distress among family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychooncology 2024; 33:e6239. [PMID: 37985531 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6239] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Caregiving for a loved one is challenging and requires significant resources. Existential distress in family caregivers may include hopelessness, demoralization, fear of death, pre-loss grief, or a sense of not being emotionally prepared. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesize the quantitative literature on existential distress among family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer, focusing on its prevalence, association with mental disorders, as well as with sociodemographic, disease, and treatment-related factors. METHODS We systematically searched electronic databases for quantitative studies of the above-described existential distress concepts in family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer. Two independent reviewers extracted data and evaluated study quality. Data were analyzed using random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS We retrieved 17.587 records, of which 31 studies fulfilled inclusion criteria. 63% of the studies (n = 20) provided sufficient data for meta-analysis for 5558 patients. We found an overall pooled prevalence of 30.6% for existential distress, 95% CI [24.2-37.0]. For existential distress subconcepts, prevalence rates were 57.0%, 95% CI [37.8-76.2], for death anxiety, 13.9%, 95% CI [10.8-17.0], for demoralization, 24.0%, 95% CI [18.0-30.0], for pre-loss grief, 18.4%, 95% CI [4.0-32.7], for hopelessness, 35.2%, 95% CI [28.2-42.2], for loneliness, and 35.6%, 95% CI [13.0-58.3], for emotional unpreparedness. CONCLUSIONS Approximately one third of the respondents were affected by high levels of existential distress. The review provides evidence for further development of support services that can reduce existential distress, focused on death anxiety, and improve the quality of life for family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Walbaum
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Rebecca Philipp
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karin Oechsle
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anneke Ullrich
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sigrun Vehling
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Oncology, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation with Section of Pneumology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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12
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Garcia ACM, Maia LO, Meireles E, Nogueira DA, Tófoli LF. Spiritual Well-Being Among Users and Non-Users of Psychedelics: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Psychoactive Drugs 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37971325 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2023.2284343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS) in a Brazilian sample. We analyzed spiritual well-being, defined as existential well-being (EWB) and religious well-being (RWB), among individuals with varying religious and spiritual experiences, both users and non-users of psychedelics. The online cross-sectional survey was conducted in Brazil, from April to June 2022. The psychometric analyses demonstrated reliability and validity based on the internal structure and the relationship with satisfactory external variables concerning the RWB and EWB factors of the SWBS. Validity evidence was shown for both factors (RWB, EWB) with adequate reliability ratings. However, the RWB factor, which was entirely replicated, demonstrated the best group differentiation and internal consistency. Although both factors showed validity, the RWB factor exhibited superior psychometric indices for validity, group discrimination, and reliability. Regarding psychedelics, the association with RWB and EWB demonstrates a U-shaped pattern, as participants who never use these substances typically exhibit higher RWB and EWB indices, succeeded by frequent users. This finding underscores the need for additional studies to further explore the intricate interplay between psychedelics and spiritual well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cláudia Mesquita Garcia
- Interdisciplinary Center for Studies in Palliative Care, School of Nursing, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Brazil
- Interdisciplinary Cooperation for Ayahuasca Research and Outreach (ICARO), School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Lucas Oliveira Maia
- Interdisciplinary Center for Studies in Palliative Care, School of Nursing, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Brazil
- Interdisciplinary Cooperation for Ayahuasca Research and Outreach (ICARO), School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
- Brain Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Everson Meireles
- Interdisciplinary Center for Studies in Palliative Care, School of Nursing, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Brazil
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Recôncavo da Bahia, Santo Antônio de Jesus, BA, Brazil
| | - Denismar Alves Nogueira
- Interdisciplinary Center for Studies in Palliative Care, School of Nursing, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Brazil
- Institute of Exact Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Luís Fernando Tófoli
- Interdisciplinary Cooperation for Ayahuasca Research and Outreach (ICARO), School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
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13
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Guldin MB, Leget C. The integrated process model of loss and grief - An interprofessional understanding. DEATH STUDIES 2023; 48:738-752. [PMID: 37883693 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2272960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Despite the vast developments in research on loss and grief, dominant grief models fall short in reflecting the comprehensive issues grieving persons are facing. Three causes seem to be at play: grief is usually understood to be connected to death and other types of loss are under-researched; the majority of research is done from the field of psychology and on pathological forms of grief, hardly integrating research from other disciplines; and the existential suffering related to grief is not recognized or insufficiently integrated in the dominant models. In this paper, we propose an integrated process model (IPM) of loss and grief, distinguishing five dimensions of grief: physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and spiritual. The integrated process model integrates therapies, tools, and models within different scientific theories and paradigms to connect disciplines and professions. The comprehensive and existential understanding of loss and grief has relevance for research, clinical settings and community support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai-Britt Guldin
- Research Unit for General Practice, Institute for Public Health, Aarhus University, Denmark. Center for Grief and Existential Values, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Carlo Leget
- University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center for Grief and Existential Values, Aarhus, Denmark
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Bäckersten C, Molander U, Benkel I, Nyblom S. "What it is like to be human": The existential dimension of care as perceived by professionals caring for people approaching death. Palliat Support Care 2023:1-6. [PMID: 37859430 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523001554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Existential/spiritual questions often arise when a person suffers from a serious and/or life-threatening illness. "Existential" can be seen as a broad inclusive term for issues surrounding people's experience and way of thinking about life. To be able to meet patients' existential needs, knowledge is needed about what the existential dimension includes. The aim of this study was to investigate how professionals caring for people with life-threatening disease perceive the existential dimension of care. METHODS This study is based on a mixed method design utilizing a digital survey with open- and closed-ended questions. Descriptive statistics were applied to closed-ended questions and a qualitative descriptive approach was used for the responses to the open-ended questions. Healthcare professionals at specialized palliative care units, an oncology clinic and municipal healthcare within home care and a nursing home in Sweden answered the survey. RESULTS Responses from 77 professionals expressed a broad perspective on existential questions such as thoughts about life and death. Identifying existential needs and performing existential care was considered a matter of attitude and responsiveness and thus a possible task for any professional. Existential needs centered around the opportunity to communicate, share thoughts and experiences, and be seen and heard. Existential care was connected to communication, sharing moments in the present without doing anything and was sometimes described as embedded in professionals' ordinary care interventions. The existential dimension was considered important by the majority of respondents. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS This study indicates that with the right attitude and responsiveness, all professionals can potentially contribute to existential care, and that existential care can be embedded in all care. The existential dimension of care can also be considered very important by health professionals in a country that is considered secular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl Bäckersten
- Palliative Centre, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ulla Molander
- Palliative Centre, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Inger Benkel
- Palliative Centre, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Stina Nyblom
- Palliative Centre, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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15
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Tarbi EC, Broden EG, Rosa WE, Hayden A, Morgan BE. Existential Care in Daily Nursing Practice. Am J Nurs 2023; 123:42-48. [PMID: 37732668 PMCID: PMC10805359 DOI: 10.1097/01.naj.0000979092.39243.d4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Relationship-centered palliative nursing during serious illness requires existential care. Yet, multilevel systemic barriers hinder nurses' ability to provide this care. The authors suggest ways to navigate these barriers, highlighting existential care priorities that nurses can attend to in their daily practice. These include 1) maintaining a strengths-based orientation, 2) taking a life course perspective, 3) grounding care firmly in relationships, and 4) responding moment to moment. They propose that by emphasizing existential care in palliative nursing, we can create a more compassionate and human-centered health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise C Tarbi
- Elise C. Tarbi is an assistant professor in the Department of Nursing at the University of Vermont in Burlington. Elizabeth G. Broden is a fellow in the Yale National Clinician Scholars Program in New Haven, CT, and has received funding from a National Institutes of Health training grant (5T32HS017589) to the Yale School of Public Health. William E. Rosa is assistant attending behavioral scientist, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City. Adam Hayden is an independent scholar and unaffiliated patient advocate. Brianna E. Morgan is a postdoctoral fellow in the Division of Geriatric Medicine and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Health in New York City. Contact author: Elise C. Tarbi, . The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise
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16
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Gibson Watt T, Gillanders D, Spiller JA, Finucane AM. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for people with advanced progressive illness, their caregivers and staff involved in their care: A scoping review. Palliat Med 2023; 37:1100-1128. [PMID: 37489074 PMCID: PMC10503261 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231183101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with an advanced progressive illness and their caregivers frequently experience anxiety, uncertainty and anticipatory grief. Traditional approaches to address psychological concerns aim to modify dysfunctional thinking; however, this is limited in palliative care, as often concerns area valid and thought modification is unrealistic. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a mindfulness-based behavioural therapy aimed at promoting acceptance and valued living even in difficult circumstances. Evidence on its value in palliative care is emerging. AIMS To scope the evidence regarding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for people with advanced progressive illness, their caregivers and staff involved in their care. DESIGN Systematic scoping review using four databases (Medline, PsychInfo, CINAHL and AMED), with relevant MeSH terms and keywords from January 1999 to May 2023. RESULTS 1,373 papers were identified and 26 were eligible for inclusion. These involved people with advanced progressive illness (n = 14), informal caregivers (n = 4), palliative care staff (n = 3), bereaved carers (n = 3), and mixed groups (n = 2). Intervention studies (n = 15) showed that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is acceptable and may have positive effects on anxiety, depression, distress, and sleep in palliative care populations. Observational studies (n = 11) revealed positive relationships between acceptance and adjustment to loss and physical function. CONCLUSION Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is acceptable and feasible in palliative care, and may improve anxiety, depression, and distress. Full scale mixed-method evaluation studies are now needed to demonstrate effectiveness and cost-effectiveness amongst patients; while further intervention development and feasibility studies are warranted to explore its value for bereaved carers and staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilly Gibson Watt
- University of Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - David Gillanders
- Clinical Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Juliet A Spiller
- University of Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
- Marie Curie Hospice Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Anne M Finucane
- Clinical Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
- Marie Curie Hospice Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
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17
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Kissane DW, Bobevski I, Appleton J, Michael N, King T, Moss G, Eng D, White A, Carboon D, Eade R, Keighley L. Real World Experience of Change in Psycho-Existential Symptoms in Palliative Care. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 66:212-220.e2. [PMID: 37290732 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2023.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Psycho-existential symptoms in palliative care are addressed insufficiently. Routine screening, ongoing monitoring and meaningful treatment of psycho-existential symptoms may contribute to the relief of suffering in palliative care. OBJECTIVES We sought to explore longitudinal change in psycho-existential symptoms following the routine implementation of the Psycho-existential Symptom Assessment Scale (PeSAS) in Australian palliative care services. METHODS Using a multisite rolling design, we implemented the PeSAS to longitudinally monitor symptoms in a cohort of 319 patients. We assessed change scores for each symptom in groups with mild (≤3), moderate (4-7) and severe (≥8) symptomatology at baseline. We tested significance between these groups and used regression analyses to identify predictors. RESULTS While one half of patients denied clinically important psycho-existential symptoms, for the remainder, overall, more patients improved than deteriorated. Between 20% and 60% of patients with moderate and severe symptoms improved, while another 5%-25% developed new symptom distress. Patients with severe baseline scores improved significantly more than those with moderate baseline scores. CONCLUSION As we better recognize through screening patients carrying psycho-existential distress in palliative care programs, there is considerable room for improvement in ameliorating this suffering. Inadequate clinical skills, poor psychosocial staffing or a biomedical program culture may all contribute to inadequate symptom control. Person-centered care necessitates greater attention to authentic multidisciplinary care that ameliorates psycho-spiritual and existential distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Kissane
- School of Medicine (D.W.K., I.B., J.A., N.M.), University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Australia; St. Vincent's Hospital (D.W.K., J.A.), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Cabrini Health (D.W.K., I.B., N.M., L.K.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences (D.W.K., I.B., N.M., D.C.), Monash University, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Irene Bobevski
- School of Medicine (D.W.K., I.B., J.A., N.M.), University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Australia; Cabrini Health (D.W.K., I.B., N.M., L.K.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences (D.W.K., I.B., N.M., D.C.), Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane Appleton
- School of Medicine (D.W.K., I.B., J.A., N.M.), University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Australia; St. Vincent's Hospital (D.W.K., J.A.), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Natasha Michael
- School of Medicine (D.W.K., I.B., J.A., N.M.), University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, Australia; Cabrini Health (D.W.K., I.B., N.M., L.K.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Clinical Sciences (D.W.K., I.B., N.M., D.C.), Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tania King
- Eastern Palliative Care (T.K.), Victoria, Australia
| | - Graham Moss
- Clare Holland House (G.M.), Canberra, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Derek Eng
- Royal Perth Hospital (D.E., A.W.), Perth, Australia
| | - Alison White
- Royal Perth Hospital (D.E., A.W.), Perth, Australia; St. John of God Murdoch Community Hospice (A.W.), Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | - Danielle Carboon
- School of Clinical Sciences (D.W.K., I.B., N.M., D.C.), Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rachel Eade
- Eastern Health (R.E.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Luka Keighley
- Cabrini Health (D.W.K., I.B., N.M., L.K.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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18
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Pralong A, Herling M, Holtick U, Scheid C, Hellmich M, Hallek M, Pauli B, Reimer A, Schepers C, Simon ST. Developing a supportive and palliative care intervention for patients with allogeneic stem cell transplantation: protocol of a multicentre mixed-methods study (allo-PaS). BMJ Open 2023; 13:e066948. [PMID: 37652589 PMCID: PMC10476131 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) is a curative treatment for many haematological malignancies, it is often associated with a high morbidity and mortality. Yet, little is known about the needs for supportive and palliative care among allo-SCT recipients. Moreover, targeted interventions that reduce symptom burden and suffering are still lacking. The present study aims to inform a supportive-palliative care intervention for patients with allo-SCT and their informal carers by exploring their experience and assessing their needs, especially their existential concerns, regarding four research topics: symptom burden and quality of life; coexistence of a chance for cure and a relevant risk of dying; change in goals of care; dying phase. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a descriptive mixed-methods study in progress with a convergent parallel design. Data on the four research topics will be collected and analysed separately in three steps: (1) qualitative semi-structured interviews among 20 patients, 20 informal carers and 12 healthcare providers (HCPs) and focus groups among 12-24 HCPs; (2) a quantitative cross-sectional survey with validated questionnaires and self-developed questions among 100 patients, 100 informal carers and 50 HCPs; (3) a retrospective case analysis of all deceased patients who underwent an allo-SCT between 2010 and 2019, with collection of quantitative and qualitative data. The qualitative and quantitative data sets will be finally merged for comparison and interpretation. Results will serve to develop a supportive-palliative care intervention. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The Ethics Commission of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Cologne approved this study (20-1370_2). The study results will be published in peer-review journals, be presented at congresses and will be translated into clinical practice through the development of the palliative-supportive care intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER DRKS00027290 (German Clinical Trials Register).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Pralong
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Marco Herling
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Hematology, Cellular Therapy, and Hemostaseology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Sachsen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Udo Holtick
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christoph Scheid
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Martin Hellmich
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology (IMSB), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Michael Hallek
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Berenike Pauli
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Alinda Reimer
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Carolin Schepers
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Steffen T Simon
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Integrated Oncology Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Hirayama T, Ogawa Y, Ogawa A, Igarashi E, Soejima S, Hata K, Utsumi Y, Mashiko Y, Ogata K, Kayano A, Yanai Y, Suzuki SI. Behavioral activation for depression in patients with advanced cancer: study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:427. [PMID: 37170203 PMCID: PMC10173594 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-10926-y] [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: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though behavioral activation (BA) has been shown to be effective for depression, evidence in patients with advanced cancer has not been established. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a BA program on depression in this population. METHODS A randomized controlled trial with a wait-list control group (waiting group) of 38 patients with advanced cancer and depression will be conducted at three sites in Japan. The BA program consists of seven sessions. Outcome measures will be evaluated at three times in the intervention group; at the entry, at the end of the intervention and 4 months after the end of the intervention and four times in the waiting group: at the entry, before the intervention, at the end of the intervention, and 4 months after the end of the intervention. Primary outcome is Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) score. To examine the main effect of the intervention, two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) will be conducted, with timing and intervention status as the independent variables and BDI-II score as the dependent variable. One-way repeated measures ANOVA will be conducted to combine data from the intervention and control groups and examine changes in BDI-II scores by timing in both groups. Secondary endpoints (anxiety, quality of life, spirituality, degree of behavioral activation, value, and pain) will be evaluated with rating scales. Two-way repeated measures ANOVA will be conducted to examine whether there are differences between the groups before and after the intervention, with timing and intervention status as the independent variables and scores on each rating scale as the dependent variables. DISCUSSION This multicenter randomized controlled trial is the first study to assess the effectiveness of BA on depression in patients with advanced cancer. Our findings will provide evidence about the effectiveness of BA on depression and provide an intervention option that is acceptable and feasible for the treatment of depression in this population. The results of this study will lead to improved mood and rebuilding to regain life purpose and value in this vulnerable population. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER jRCT, jRCT1030210687, Registered 22 March 2022, https://jrct.niph.go.jp/en-latest-detail/jRCT1030210687 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Takatoshi Hirayama
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Ogawa
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Asao Ogawa
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, 6-5-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa-shi, Chiba Japan
| | - Emi Igarashi
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, 2-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Japan
| | - Saaya Soejima
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, 6-5-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa-shi, Chiba Japan
| | - Kotone Hata
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Waseda University, 2-579-15 Mikajima, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama Japan
| | - Yusuke Utsumi
- Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Hospital, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi Japan
| | - Yuki Mashiko
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kyoka Ogata
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayako Kayano
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuko Yanai
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, 5-1-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shin-ichi Suzuki
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Waseda University, 2-579-15 Mikajima, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama Japan
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20
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Avery J, Thomas R, Howell D, Dubouloz Wilner CJ. Empowering Cancer Survivors in Managing Their Own Health: A Paradoxical Dynamic Process of Taking and Letting Go of Control. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:412-425. [PMID: 36825869 PMCID: PMC10126457 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231158629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In cancer care, gaps in support to help patients manage and live with the side-effects from cancer treatments have increased the emphasis on empowering patients to be more active and involved in managing their own health. However, empowerment in relation to promoting self-management behaviors is not well understood. Using the social constructivist grounded theory approach, our goal was to develop a theoretical understanding of this phenomenon in relation to the self-management behaviors of post-treatment cancer patients. Twenty-two post-treatment cancer patients participated in a semi-structured focused interview to co-construct with us how empowerment is defined, described, and experienced in relation to their capacity to self-manage. Through this co-construction, we defined empowerment as a process of personal growth, a display of fortitude and strength when participants confronted the impact of their illness that emerged in two dynamic and paradoxical ways: 1) establishing control over the impact of the illness as a means to maintain normalcy and to circumvent change over an eroding and changing sense of self and 2) relinquishing control over aspects of the illness deemed irrepressible and acknowledging and accepting change. When successful at establishing and/or relinquishing control, participants no longer viewed cancer as a threat, but re-interpreted their illness as also having a beneficial "empowering" experience and more capable of managing. Findings will guide the development of self-management interventions that use empowerment as a core construct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Avery
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Roanne Thomas
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Doris Howell
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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21
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Li YC, Feng YH, Ma SC, Wang HH. Dignity and Related Factors in Patients with Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study. Asian Nurs Res (Korean Soc Nurs Sci) 2023; 17:8-14. [PMID: 36572101 DOI: 10.1016/j.anr.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Dignity is a basic human right that is related to psychological distress factors in patients with cancer such as depression and demoralization. Hence, the dignity issue is of great importance to healthcare professionals. The present study aimed to advise healthcare professionals regarding the related distress factors of dignity in patients with cancer by investigating its relationship with patients' demographics, disease characteristics, and psychological distress. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study design. A convenience sample of 267 patients with cancer from a medical center was recruited into this study. Each patient completed demographics and disease characteristics questionnaires, the Patient Dignity Inventory Mandarin Version, the Demoralization Scale Mandarin Version (DS-MV), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Data were analyzed with SPSS 22.0 software. RESULTS Dignity was significantly correlated with age, demoralization, and depression. Cancer patients aged 65 or above were more likely to have a lower sense of dignity. In the present study, the sensitivity and specificity of the Patient Dignity Inventory Mandarin Version for demoralization (DS-MV≥30) were 84.8% and 79.1% and for depression (PHQ-9≥10) were 73.8% and 70.9% in patients with cancer with an aggregate score of 35 or above. CONCLUSIONS Dignity is significantly correlated with personal demographic characteristics and psychological distress in patients with cancer. The results provide reference data for healthcare professionals to understand and enable dignity in patients with cancer and aid in the development of methods that promote their dignity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chi Li
- College of Nursing, Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Yin-Hsun Feng
- Department of Nursing, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Taiwan; Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Ching Ma
- Nursing Department, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Taiwan; Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Hung Wang
- College of Nursing, Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan.
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22
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Murri MB, Caruso R, Christensen AP, Folesani F, Nanni MG, Grassi L. The facets of psychopathology in patients with cancer: Cross-sectional and longitudinal network analyses. J Psychosom Res 2023; 165:111139. [PMID: 36610333 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2022.111139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cancer patients display heterogeneous psychopathology, comprising depressive, anxiety, hostility, and somatic symptoms. Often, clinical pictures evolve over time deteriorating the individual functioning and prognosis. Network models can reveal the relationships between symptoms, thus providing clinical insights. METHOD This study examined data of the Brief Symptom Inventory and the Distress Thermometer, from 1108 cancer outpatients. Gaussian Graphical Models were estimated using regularized and non-regularized Bayesian methods. In addition, we used community detection methods to identify the most relevant symptom groupings, and longitudinal network analyses on 515 participants to examine the connections between symptoms over three months. RESULTS The network models derived from baseline data suggested symptoms clustered into three main complexes (depression/anxiety, hostility, and somatic symptoms). Symptoms related to depression and hostility were highly connected with suicidal and death thoughts. Faintness, weakness, chest pain, and dyspnoea, among somatic symptoms, were more strongly connected with psychopathological features. Longitudinal analyses revealed that sadness, irritability, nervousness, and tension predicted each other. Panic and death thoughts predicted fearfulness and faintness. CONCLUSIONS Somatic symptoms, sadness, irritability, chronic and acute anxiety interact between each other, shaping the heterogeneous clinical picture of distress in cancer. This study, strengthened by robust methods, is the first to employ longitudinal network analyses in cancer patients. Further studies should evaluate whether targeting specific symptoms might prevent the onset of chronic distress and improve clinical outcomes in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martino Belvederi Murri
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Rosangela Caruso
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alexander P Christensen
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, United States
| | - Federica Folesani
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Giulia Nanni
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luigi Grassi
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Italy
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23
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Rothmund M, Pilz MJ, Egeter N, Lidington E, Piccinin C, Arraras JI, Grønvold M, Holzner B, van Leeuwen M, Petersen MA, Schmidt H, Young T, Giesinger JM. Patient-reported outcome measures for emotional functioning in cancer patients: Content comparison of the EORTC CAT Core, FACT-G, HADS, SF-36, PRO-CTCAE, and PROMIS instruments. Psychooncology 2023; 32:628-639. [PMID: 36707461 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer and its treatment can have substantial impact on patients' emotional functioning. Several patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) assessing emotional functioning are available, but differences in content limit the comparability of results. To better understand conceptual (dis)similarities, we conducted a content comparison of commonly used PROMs. METHODS We included emotional functioning items, scales, and item banks from the EORTC CAT Core, EORTC QLQ-C30, FACT-G, Hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), SF-36, PRO-CTCAE, and PROMIS (item banks for anxiety, depression, and anger). Item content was linked to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) and a hierarchical framework established for PROMIS. Single items could be coded with more than one ICF category but were solely assigned to one facet within the PROMIS framework. RESULTS The measures comprise 132 unique items covering the ICF components 'Body functions' (136/153 codings, 88.9%) and 'Activities and participation' (15/153, 9.8%). Most ICF codings (112/153, 73.2%) referred to the third-level category 'b1528 Emotional functions, other specified'. According to the PROMIS framework 48.5% of the items assessed depression (64/132 items), followed by anxiety (41/132, 31.1%) and anger (26/132, 19.7%). The EORTC measures covered depression, anxiety, and anger in a single measure, while the PROMIS inventory provides separate item banks for these concepts. The FACT-G, SF-36, PRO-CTCAE and HADS covered depression and anxiety, but not anger. CONCLUSION Our results provide an in-depth conceptual understanding of selected PROMs and important qualitative information going beyond psychometric evidence. Such information supports the identification of PROMs for which scores can be meaningfully linked with quantitative methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rothmund
- University Hospital of Psychiatry II, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria.,Institute of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Micha J Pilz
- University Hospital of Psychiatry II, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Nathalie Egeter
- University Hospital of Psychiatry II, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Emma Lidington
- Cancer Behavioural Science Unit, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Claire Piccinin
- Quality of Life Department, European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Juan I Arraras
- Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mogens Grønvold
- Palliative Care Research Unit, Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine GP, Bispebjerg/Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bernhard Holzner
- University Hospital of Psychiatry I, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Marieke van Leeuwen
- Division of Psychosocial Research & Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Morten Aa Petersen
- Palliative Care Research Unit, Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine GP, Bispebjerg/Frederiksberg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Heike Schmidt
- University Clinic and Outpatient Clinic for Radiotherapy and Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Medical Faculty of Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Teresa Young
- Supportive Oncology Research Team, East & North Hertfordshire NHS Trust Incorporating Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Northwood, Middlesex, UK
| | - Johannes M Giesinger
- University Hospital of Psychiatry II, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
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Epstein RJ, Gu Y, Lin FPY. Can cancer go green? It's up to us. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1074091. [PMID: 36910667 PMCID: PMC9992733 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1074091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Epstein
- New Hope Cancer Center, Beijing United Hospital, Beijing, China.,Department of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Cancer Programme, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Yanfei Gu
- New Hope Cancer Center, Beijing United Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Frank P Y Lin
- Department of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Cancer Programme, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Clinical Trials Centre, Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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25
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Chochinov HM. Medical Assistance in Dying, Data and Casting Assertions Aside. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:9-12. [PMID: 36260363 PMCID: PMC9810496 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Various assertions have been made regarding why eligibility for medical assistance in dying (MAiD) should be expanded. Examining these and the studies used to support them should clear the way for thoughtful data monitoring and research into why some patients make death hastening requests. This will not only improve MAiD practices in Canada, but will lead to better more effective palliative care for patients whose suffering leads them to covet death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey Max Chochinov
- Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,Senior Scientist, CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.,Address correspondence to: Harvey Max Chochinov, OC, OM, MD, PhD, FRCPC, FRSC, Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, 4004-675 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0V9, Canada
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26
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Schipper S, Nigam K, Piechotta V, Ljuslin M, Beaussant Y, Schwarzer G, Boehlke C. Psychedelic/entactogen‐assisted therapy for treatment of anxiety, depression and existential distress in adult palliative care. THE COCHRANE DATABASE OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2022; 2022:CD015383. [PMCID: PMC9677948 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd015383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (intervention). The objectives are as follows: To assess the benefits and harms of psychedelic/entactogen‐assisted therapy compared to placebo or active comparators (e.g. antidepressants) for treatment of anxiety, depression, and existential distress in adult palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kabir Nigam
- Department of PsychiatryBrigham and Women’s HospitalBostonUSA
| | - Vanessa Piechotta
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Cochrane HaematologyFaculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of CologneCologneGermany
| | - Michael Ljuslin
- Palliative Medicine Division, Department of Rehabilitation and GeriatricsGeneva University HospitalsGenevaSwitzerland,Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative CareDana-Farber Cancer InstituteBostonUSA,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUSA
| | - Yvan Beaussant
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative CareDana-Farber Cancer InstituteBostonUSA
| | - Guido Schwarzer
- Institute of Medical Biometry and StatisticsFaculty of Medicine and Medical Center, University of FreiburgFreiburgGermany
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27
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Kissane DW, Appleton J, Lennon J, Michael N, Chye R, King T, William L, Poon P, Kanathigoda S, Needham K, Bobevski I. Psycho-Existential Symptom Assessment Scale (PeSAS) Screening in Palliative Care. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:429-437. [PMID: 35961431 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Psycho-existential symptoms are common yet often missed or neglected in palliative care. Screening can be an effective way to recognize and respond to this need. OBJECTIVES We aimed to implement routine use of the Psycho-existential Symptom Assessment Scale (PeSAS) as a screening tool in Australian palliative care services and discern the symptom prevalence identified. METHODS In a multi-site rolling design, we established implementation site committees and embarked on experiential workshops to train clinicians in the tool's efficient use. Patient symptom prevalence data were collected to compare uptake across sites. Descriptive statistics were applied. RESULTS Over one year, we trained 216 clinicians across six palliative care services in the use of the PeSAS as a screening tool and collected data from 1405 patients. Clinicians reported significant growth in their sense of efficacy in assessing psycho-existential wellness. Services using electronic records implemented most easily. Psycho-existential symptoms with clinically significant prevalence (scores ≥ 4/10) included anxiety 41.1%, discouragement 37.6%, hopelessness 35.8%, pointlessness 26.9%, depression 30.3%, and the wish to die 17%. The precision of measurement within 3% was found for severe ratings (score ≥ 8/10) including anxiety 10.6%, depression 10.2%, the wish to die 7.6%, and confusion 3.6%. CONCLUSION Clinicians can be trained to screen with the Psycho-existential Symptom Assessment Scale, which serves as a valuable measure to better recognize symptoms of psycho-existential distress among palliative care patients. Implementation barriers included the prior ethos of the service, confidence in talking about these themes, electronic data entry, and perceived time pressures.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Kissane
- School of Medicine (D.W.K, J.A., J.L., N.M., K.N., I.B.), University of Notre Dame Australia; St. Vincent's Hospital (D.W.K., J.A., J.L., R.C., K.N.), Sydney, NSW; Cabrini Health (D.W.K., N.M., I.B.), Melbourne, Victoria; School of Clinical Sciences (D.W.K., N.M., L.W., P.P., I.B.), Monash University, Victoria; Monash Health (D.W.K., P.P.), Melbourne, Victoria.
| | - Jane Appleton
- School of Medicine (D.W.K, J.A., J.L., N.M., K.N., I.B.), University of Notre Dame Australia; St. Vincent's Hospital (D.W.K., J.A., J.L., R.C., K.N.), Sydney, NSW
| | - Jonathon Lennon
- School of Medicine (D.W.K, J.A., J.L., N.M., K.N., I.B.), University of Notre Dame Australia; St. Vincent's Hospital (D.W.K., J.A., J.L., R.C., K.N.), Sydney, NSW
| | - Natasha Michael
- School of Medicine (D.W.K, J.A., J.L., N.M., K.N., I.B.), University of Notre Dame Australia; Cabrini Health (D.W.K., N.M., I.B.), Melbourne, Victoria; School of Clinical Sciences (D.W.K., N.M., L.W., P.P., I.B.), Monash University, Victoria
| | - Richard Chye
- St. Vincent's Hospital (D.W.K., J.A., J.L., R.C., K.N.), Sydney, NSW
| | - Tania King
- Eastern Palliative Care (T.K.), Victoria
| | - Leeroy William
- School of Clinical Sciences (D.W.K., N.M., L.W., P.P., I.B.), Monash University, Victoria; Eastern Health (L.W.), Melbourne, Victoria
| | - Peter Poon
- School of Clinical Sciences (D.W.K., N.M., L.W., P.P., I.B.), Monash University, Victoria; Monash Health (D.W.K., P.P.), Melbourne, Victoria
| | | | - Katarina Needham
- School of Medicine (D.W.K, J.A., J.L., N.M., K.N., I.B.), University of Notre Dame Australia; St. Vincent's Hospital (D.W.K., J.A., J.L., R.C., K.N.), Sydney, NSW
| | - Irene Bobevski
- School of Medicine (D.W.K, J.A., J.L., N.M., K.N., I.B.), University of Notre Dame Australia; Cabrini Health (D.W.K., N.M., I.B.), Melbourne, Victoria; School of Clinical Sciences (D.W.K., N.M., L.W., P.P., I.B.), Monash University, Victoria
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Michael N, Symons X, Mendz GL, Kissane D. Vulnerability and Resilience: Phenomenological Analysis of Cancer Patients Value Directives. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:438-448. [PMID: 35932954 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Personal values are individual conceptions of the desirable appraisals and actions that guide our attitudes and behaviour. Advance care planning (ACP) now emphasises the consideration of personal life goals and values expressed as a Values Directive (VD) to guide discussions concerning medical treatment. OBJECTIVE To investigate the diversity of values, experiences and adaptations expressed in cancer patients VDs. METHODS Contents of the VDs of ACPs of cancer patients who participated in a randomised control trial comparing a video intervention showing values communication between cancer patient-caregivers with usual care were analysed. Qualitative phenomenological content analysis was used to understand how participants made meaning of their lived experiences. RESULTS Forty-two participants completed an ACP (37.2% response rate), with 97.6% of these completing a VD (57.1% female, mean age 72 years, 30.1% gastrointestinal cancer). Participants described diverse adjustments to frailty and adaptive coping with deteriorating functionality. Emotional and financial concerns were eased through experiencing benevolence and trust established through family and friendship bonds and reciprocation of care. Death anxiety and ambivalence were expressed concurrently with the experiential acceptance of dying. Secular and sacred rituals featured as an affirmation of their faith or beliefs. CONCLUSION Cancer patients seek to make meaning of their experiences, concurrently posturing vulnerability and resilience, despite conflicting emotions and experiences. Given that the choices people make as they approach dying relate to their most deeply held values, ACP conversations should explore how patients draw from their values and life goals to optimise their adaptations to illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Michael
- Supportive, Psychosocial and Palliative Care Research Department (N.M., D.K.), Cabrini Health, VIC Australia; School of Medicine (N.M., G.L.M., D.K.), University of Notre Dame Australia Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine (N.M., D.K.), Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, VIC, Australia.
| | - Xavier Symons
- Plunkett Centre for Ethics (X.S.), St Vincent's Hospital, NSW, Australia; Institute of Ethics and Society (X.S.), University of Notre Dame, Australia, NSW, Australia
| | - George L Mendz
- School of Medicine (N.M., G.L.M., D.K.), University of Notre Dame Australia Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - David Kissane
- Supportive, Psychosocial and Palliative Care Research Department (N.M., D.K.), Cabrini Health, VIC Australia; School of Medicine (N.M., G.L.M., D.K.), University of Notre Dame Australia Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Medicine (N.M., D.K.), Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, VIC, Australia; Sacred Heart Health Service (D.K.), St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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29
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Ozdemir S, Lee JJ, Yang GM, Malhotra C, Teo I, Pham NT, Manalo MF, Hapuarachchi T, Mariam L, Rahman R, Finkelstein E. Awareness and Utilization of Palliative Care Among Advanced Cancer Patients in Asia. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:e195-e201. [PMID: 35705117 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT To date, little is known about palliative care (PC) awareness and utilization in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in Asia. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate PC awareness and its predictors, utilization of PC services, and perceived utilization barriers among advanced cancer patients from select hospitals in Asian LMICs. METHODS This cross-sectional study analyzed data of 759 advanced cancer patients at major hospitals of four LMICs in Asia (i.e., Bangladesh, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam). The predictors of PC awareness were investigated using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS Overall PC awareness was 30.8% (n = 234). Patients with higher education (OR = 1.0; CI = 1.0,1.1), from upper-middle or high-income households (compared to low-income) (OR = 2.0; CI = 1.2,3.3), awareness of disease severity (OR = 1.5; CI = 1.0,2.2), and higher pain severity (OR = 1.1; CI = 1.0,1.2) had higher odds of PC awareness. Compared to patients who perceived themselves as being very informed about disease trajectory, those who were unsure (OR = 0.5; CI = 0.3,0.8) or uninformed (OR = 0.5; CI = 0.3,0.9) had lower odds of PC awareness. The PC utilization rate was 35.0% (n = 82) among those with PC awareness, and 47.8% (n = 66) among patients recommended PC by a healthcare professional (n = 138). The most cited PC utilization barriers were currently receiving anti-cancer treatment (n = 43; 33.9%), and having insufficient information about PC (n = 41; 32.3%). CONCLUSION The low awareness of PC services in these major hospitals in Asian LMICs highlights that more effort may be required to promote the awareness of PC in this region. The efforts should especially focus on those from disadvantaged groups to reduce the gap in PC awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semra Ozdemir
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (S.O., J.J.L., M.Y., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Programme in Health Services & Systems Research (S.O., J.J.L., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore.
| | - Jia Jia Lee
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (S.O., J.J.L., M.Y., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Programme in Health Services & Systems Research (S.O., J.J.L., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Grace Meijuan Yang
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (S.O., J.J.L., M.Y., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Division of Palliative and Supportive Care (M.Y.), National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chetna Malhotra
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (S.O., J.J.L., M.Y., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Programme in Health Services & Systems Research (S.O., J.J.L., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Irene Teo
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (S.O., J.J.L., M.Y., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Programme in Health Services & Systems Research (S.O., J.J.L., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | | | | | | | - Lubna Mariam
- Department of Radiation Oncology (L.M.), National Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Rubayat Rahman
- Department of Palliative Medicine (R.R.), Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Eric Finkelstein
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care (S.O., J.J.L., M.Y., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; Programme in Health Services & Systems Research (S.O., J.J.L., C.M., I.T., E.F.), Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
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Guarin GE, Dee EC, Robredo JPG, Eala MAB, Medina MF, Tanco KC. End-of-life care for Filipino patients with cancer. Palliat Support Care 2022; 21:1-5. [PMID: 36168286 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Providing end-of-life care within the cultural context of a Filipino patient in the United States is a complex process for clinicians, patients, and their families. An inclusive approach is crucial, especially because a significant proportion of patients belong to minority groups such as Filipinos, who represent the fourth largest group of immigrants in the United States as of data available in 2019. The case provided in this paper highlights the importance of family, religion, and finances in guiding the best possible way of providing end-of-life care for Filipino patients with cancer. At the end of this review, we discuss concrete action points that may give a non-Filipino physician a deeper understanding of end-of-life care for Filipinos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geneva E Guarin
- Department of Medicine, Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Edward Christopher Dee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Manuel F Medina
- Supportive, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Kimberson C Tanco
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine, Division of Cancer Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Bovero A, Digiovanni Y, Botto R, Leombruni P. End-of-life cancer patients' total pain: the necessity to supplement pharmacology with psycho-socio-spiritual treatments. Pain Manag 2022; 12:895-906. [PMID: 36065852 DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2022-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To analyze pain considering its different bio-psycho-social-spiritual manifestations and to assess the effectiveness of the analgesic treatments in end-of-life cancer patients. Materials & methods: The study was cross-sectional. A total of 376 end-of-life cancer inpatients participated in the research. Their socio-demographic and clinical data were collected and, during the first psychological consultancy, they filled in a set of validated rating scales assessing pain, anxiety, depression and quality of life. Results: The results show that physical pain was well managed for almost all patients. Nevertheless, the majority showed clinically significant levels of psychological distress. Conclusion: Treating pain means caring for all its possible manifestations including psychological symptoms and reduced wellbeing. Thus, integrating pharmacological treatment with psycho-socio-spiritual interventions, in other words, psychological, social and spiritual support, could be effective and desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Bovero
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', Turin, Italy
| | - Ylenia Digiovanni
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', Turin, Italy
| | - Rossana Botto
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', Turin, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Leombruni
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Hospital 'Città della Salute e della Scienza', Turin, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Ann-Yi S, Bruera E. Psychological Aspects of Care in Cancer Patients in the Last Weeks/Days of Life. Cancer Res Treat 2022; 54:651-660. [PMID: 35790196 PMCID: PMC9296948 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2022.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Palliative care is comprised of an interdisciplinary team (IDT) approach with members from different disciplines who collaboratively work together to reduce multidimensional components of pain and suffering and improve quality of life for patients coping with a terminal illness. Psychosocial team members are integral to the palliative care IDT and provide expertise in assessment and empirically validated interventions to address psychological distress. The following paper will provide a review of different facets of psychological distress experienced by advanced cancer patients such as psychological disorders, existential distress, spiritual distress, caregiver distress, parental distress, and grief. Finally, an overview of commonly used screening and assessment tools as well as psychological interventions relevant for the palliative care population is presented.
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Radomski MV, Anheluk M, Carroll GL, Grabe K, Halsten JW, Kath K, Kreiger RA, Lunos ME, Rabusch S, Swenson KK, Zola J. Preliminary Efficacy of an Occupation-Oriented Purpose in Life Intervention After Breast Cancer. Can J Occup Ther 2022; 89:115-126. [PMID: 35040344 DOI: 10.1177/00084174211073264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background. Purpose in life is important to health and well-being; purpose disruption often goes unidentified after breast cancer. Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy of a purpose renewal intervention and utility of a screening question for identifying people with purpose-related distress. Method. In this prospective pretest-posttest study, participants with breast cancer received an 8-session purpose renewal group intervention (n = 35). Participants completed standardized measures of meaning and purpose at pretest, posttest, and two-month follow-up and a forced-choice Purpose Status Question (PSQ) at pretest. Findings. Participants made statistically significant pretest-to-posttest and pretest-to-follow-up improvements. The PSQ demonstrated construct validity: 40% of participants lacked purpose direction at pretest and this subgroup made significantly greater improvements than participants who reported purpose direction at pretest. Implications. The PSQ warrants further study as a screener to identify people with purpose-related distress. Many breast cancer survivors may benefit from a purpose in life intervention; a subgroup may benefit more.
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The burden of a brain tumor: guiding patient centric care in neuro-oncology. J Neurooncol 2022; 157:487-498. [PMID: 35394618 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-022-03993-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Brain tumor patients report an overwhelming sense of uncertainty when navigating the course of their terminal disease. Historically, organizational experts and/or treating physicians have established neuro-oncology programs. However, given the disease burden and incurable nature of current medical treatments, patient-centric care should be prioritized alongside institutional and academic objectives. Integrating patient perspectives into interdisciplinary programmatic development can improve comprehensive care and empower patients to advocate for their own quality healthcare needs. METHODS Data was derived from four focus groups with adult brain tumor patients (N = 15; Mage = 46 years, 53% female). A trained moderator led each 90-min group and posed semi-structured questions regarding patients' care needs throughout their neuro-oncological disease trajectory. Emphasis was placed on quality of life and psychological distress reduction for both patients and their loved ones. Common themes were identified via thematic content analysis using NVivo software. A high inter-rater reliability (Mkappa = 0.92, range= 0.85-0.93) was achieved. RESULTS Six distinct themes emerged, where the frequency of each theme ranged from 12.5 to 23.3%. Specifically, patients discussed relational concerns, navigation of interdisciplinary care, neurobehavioral impacts, emotional responses to stressors, existential concerns, and caregiver support. A discussion of themes follows. CONCLUSIONS It is imperative that we include the patient perspective in the development of neuro-oncology programs; considering the quality of survival in addition to quantity. Neuro-oncology quality care themes identified were relational concerns, navigating interdisciplinary care, neurobehavioral impact, emotional response to stressors, existential concerns, and caregiver support. A paramount concentration for comprehensive neuro-oncology programs must include patients' quality needs.
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Bolton LE, Seymour J, Gardiner C. Existential suffering in the day to day lives of those living with palliative care needs arising from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A systematic integrative literature review. Palliat Med 2022; 36:567-580. [PMID: 35176924 PMCID: PMC9006392 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221074539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of living with palliative care needs arising from COPD disrupts an individual's existential situation. However, no comprehensive synthesis of existing research has been published to determine the presentation and impact of existential suffering. AIM To provide a synthesis of existing evidence on existential suffering for those living with palliative care needs arising from COPD. DESIGN This is an integrative review paper, undertaken using the methodological approach developed by Soares and reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Data analysis was undertaking using an integrated convergent synthesis approach. DATA SOURCES Nine electronic databases were searched from April 2019 to December 2019. A second search was undertaken in January 2021 to identify recently published papers meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. No date restrictions were imposed. Only papers published in the English Language were considered for inclusion. Empirical research papers employing qualitative and/or quantitative methodologies and systematic literature reviews were included. Articles were accepted for inclusion if they discussed any component of existential suffering when living with COPD and palliative care needs. RESULTS Thirty-five papers were included within this review comprising of seven systematic reviews, 10 quantitative studies and 18 qualitative studies. The following themes relating to existential suffering were found: Liminality, Lamented Life, Loss of Personal Liberty, Life meaning and Existential isolation. The absence of life meaning, and purpose was of most importance to participants. CONCLUSIONS This review suggests existential suffering is present and of significant impact within the daily lives of those living with palliative care needs arising from COPD. The absence of life meaning has the most significant impact. Further research is required to understand the essential components of an intervention to address existential suffering for this patient group, to ensure holistic palliative care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane Seymour
- Division of Nursing & Midwifery, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Clare Gardiner
- Division of Nursing & Midwifery, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Miyamoto S, Yamazaki T, Shimizu K, Matsubara T, Kage H, Watanabe K, Kobo H, Matsuyama Y, Rodin G, Yoshiuchi K. Brief, manualised and semistructured individual psychotherapy programme for patients with advanced cancer in Japan: study protocol for Managing Cancer and Living Meaningfully (CALM) phase 2 trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056136. [PMID: 35277407 PMCID: PMC8919444 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Managing Cancer and Living Meaningfully (CALM) is a novel, brief and manualised psychotherapeutic intervention intended to treat and prevent depression and end-of-life distress in patients with advanced cancer. This phase 2 trial aims to assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of CALM in Japanese patients with cancer. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study is a single-arm clinical trial. All patients involved in the study are ≥18 years of age, have been diagnosed with advanced or metastatic solid-tumour cancer, and their expected survival is at least 6 months. CALM comprises three to six individual therapy sessions, each lasting approximately 45-60 min, provided over 3- 6 months. The participants will be asked to complete questionnaires at baseline (t0), 3 months (t1) and 6 months (t2). The primary outcomes are rates of completion of the intervention and of the outcome measures and improvement of depressive symptoms measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 between t0 and t2. The criteria for the successful rate of completion is that at least 70% participants who participate in at least three sessions will complete measures at t2. The secondary outcomes are the improvement in scores on: (1) the Quality of Life at the End of Life-Cancer Scale, (2) the Experiences in Close Relationships scale, (3) the Death and Dying Distress Scale and (4) the Clinical Evaluation Questionnaire. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of The University of Tokyo, Cancer Institute Hospital of Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research and Yamaguchi University. We will conduct the study in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and the Ethical Guidelines for Medical and Health Research Involving Human Subjects. The results of this study will be submitted for peer-reviewed publication and presentation at local, national and international scientific meetings and conferences. TRAIL REGISTRATION NUMBER UMIN000040032; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seraki Miyamoto
- Department of Stress Sciences and Psychosomatic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tadahiro Yamazaki
- Department of Stress Sciences and Psychosomatic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken Shimizu
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, Cancer Institute Hospital of Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshio Matsubara
- Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
- Health Service Center, Yamaguchi University Organization for University Education, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Hidenori Kage
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The University Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Next-Generation Precision Medicine Development Laboratory, The University Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kousuke Watanabe
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The University Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The University Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kobo
- Department of Psycho-Oncology, Cancer Institute Hospital of Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Matsuyama
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gary Rodin
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kazuhiro Yoshiuchi
- Department of Stress Sciences and Psychosomatic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Existential distress is a widely used concept used in describing cancer patients. However, this concept is vague and has failed to achieve a consensus. The lack of a recognized conceptual framework could hinder future research on existential distress. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to clarify and analyze the concept of existential distress in cancer patients. METHODS The Walker and Avant concept analysis approach was applied. RESULTS For cancer patients, the concept of existential distress included 5 core attributes: (a) lack of meaning; (b) loss of autonomy; (c) loss of dignity; (d) hopelessness; and (e) death anxiety. Existential distress is a key factor causing poor quality of life, a poor emotional state, demoralization, and even suicide. It is often underpinned by uncontrolled physical pain, serious psychological morbidity, and a perceived sense of being a burden on others. CONCLUSION The concept analysis provides a theoretical framework for healthcare providers to better understand existential distress in cancer patients, to improve patient well-being. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE On the basis of the antecedents of this concept, cancer patients experiencing uncontrolled physical pain, severe psychological morbidity, and a perceived sense of being a burden on others are at a high risk of existential distress. These factors should be eliminated in a timely manner to prevent cancer patients from being caught in a state of existential distress. The 5 defining attributes and empirical referents of this concept could be used to develop tools to screen for existential distress in cancer patients and distinguish it from similar concepts.
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Leslie M, Beatty L, Hulbert-Williams L, Pendrous R, Cartwright T, Jackson R, Hulbert-Williams NJ. Web-based psychological interventions for people living with and beyond cancer: A meta-review of what works and what doesn’t for maximising recruitment, engagement, and efficacy (Preprint). JMIR Cancer 2022; 8:e36255. [PMID: 35802418 PMCID: PMC9308073 DOI: 10.2196/36255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite high levels of psychological distress experienced by many patients with cancer, previous research has identified several barriers to accessing traditional face-to-face psychological support. Web-based psychosocial interventions have emerged as a promising alternative. Objective This meta-review aimed to synthesize evidence on recruitment challenges and enablers, factors that promote engagement and adherence to web-based intervention content, and factors that promote the efficacy of web-based psychosocial interventions for patients with cancer and cancer survivors. Methods We conducted a systematic search of previous reviews that investigated the recruitment, engagement, and efficacy of web-based and app-based psychosocial interventions in adult patients with cancer and cancer survivors. We searched PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library database for relevant literature. The search terms focused on a combination of topics pertaining to neoplasms and telemedicine. Two independent authors conducted abstract screening, full text screening, and data extraction for each identified article. Results A total of 20 articles met eligibility criteria. There was inconsistency in the reporting of uptake and engagement data; however, anxiety about technology and perceived time burden were identified as 2 key barriers. Web-based psychosocial oncology interventions demonstrated efficacy in reducing depression and stress but reported weak to mixed findings for distress, anxiety, quality of life, and well-being. Although no factors consistently moderated intervention efficacy, preliminary evidence indicated that multicomponent interventions and greater communication with a health care professional were preferred by participants and were associated with superior effects. Conclusions Several consistently cited barriers to intervention uptake and recruitment have emerged, which we recommend future intervention studies address. Preliminary evidence also supports the superior efficacy of multicomponent interventions and interventions that facilitate communication with a health care professional. However, a greater number of appropriately powered clinical trials, including randomized trials with head-to-head comparisons, are needed to enable more confident conclusions regarding which web-based psychosocial oncology interventions work best and for whom. Trial Registration PROSPERO CRD42020202633; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=202633
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Leslie
- Department of Psychology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Beatty
- College of Education, Psychology & Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Rosina Pendrous
- Department of Psychology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Cartwright
- Department of Psychology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Jackson
- Liverpool Clinical Trials Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J Hulbert-Williams
- Department of Psychology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
- Centre for Contextual Behavioural Science, School of Psychology, University of Chester, Chester, United Kingdom
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Jewett PI, Vogel RI, Galchutt P, Everson-Rose SA, Teoh D, Radomski M, Blaes AH. Associations between a sense of connection and existential and psychosocial outcomes in gynecologic and breast cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:3329-3336. [PMID: 34985561 PMCID: PMC8727470 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06784-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A cancer diagnosis may lead to existential despair but potentially also to perceived inner growth. This growth may be fostered through meaningful connections with others. We sought to describe existential and related psychosocial outcomes and their association with a sense of connection with others in individuals with gynecological and breast cancers. METHODS We used cross-sectional data from two ongoing cohort studies of gynecologic (N = 236) and breast (N = 62) cancer survivors at the University of Minnesota. We summarized self-reported post-traumatic growth (PTG), sense of meaning, peace, spirituality, hopelessness, loneliness, and three exploratory measures of sense of connections with others, and used multivariate linear regression models to describe the associations between them. RESULTS Hope, sense of meaning, peace, and spirituality were generally high among participants, but PTG and loneliness scores varied more. Sense of connection with others was consistently associated with greater PTG and decreased loneliness with medium effect sizes: for example having positive interactions with most/all versus nobody on one's medical team, PTG (coefficient 10.49, 95% CI: 4.10, 16.87, Cohen's D 0.44); loneliness (coefficient - 0.85, 95% CI: - 1.36, - 0.34, Cohen's D 0.43). Those who knew someone in a similar life situation felt a strong sense of connection with such a person; however, 28% of participants had not met anyone in a similar situation. CONCLUSIONS There may be untapped opportunities to nurture beneficial existential outcomes in cancer survivors. Potential interventions include connecting survivors with one another and creating opportunities for more authentic patient-provider relationships, for example, within palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia I Jewett
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota Medical School, 420 Delaware Street SE MMC 480, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Rachel I Vogel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Paul Galchutt
- Spiritual Health Services, M Health Fairview, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Susan A Everson-Rose
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, and Program in Health Disparities Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Deanna Teoh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Mary Radomski
- Courage Kenny Research, Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute, Allina Health, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Anne H Blaes
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota Medical School, 420 Delaware Street SE MMC 480, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
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Psychedelics for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and existential distress in patients with a terminal illness: a systematic review. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:15-33. [PMID: 34812901 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-06027-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Terminally ill patients may experience existential distress, depression, or anxiety, limiting quality of life in the final stage. Existing psychotherapeutic or pharmacological interventions have (time) limited efficacy. Psychedelic treatment may be a safe and effective alternative treatment option. AIM Systematically review studies on psychedelic treatment with and without psychotherapy for existential distress, depression, and anxiety in terminally ill patients. METHODS Medline, PsycINFO, and Embase were searched for original-data studies on the treatment of depression, anxiety, and existential distress with classical or a-typical psychedelics in patients with a terminal illness, using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. RESULTS A total of 1850 records were screened, and 33 articles were included in this review: 14 studies on classical psychedelics (DPT, LSD, and psilocybin) and 19 studies on atypical psychedelics (MDMA and ketamine). Results of early pre-post studies are promising but have serious methodological flaws. Recent (controlled) trials with LSD, psilocybin, ketamine, and MDMA are of higher methodological quality and indicate positive effects on existential and spiritual well-being, quality of life, acceptance, and reduction of anxiety and depression with few adverse and no serious adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS Both classical and a-typical psychedelics are promising treatment options in patients with terminal illness. To draw final conclusions on effectiveness and safety of psychedelics, we need larger high-quality studies for classical psychedelics and MDMA. Ketamine studies should pay more attention to existential dimensions of well-being and the psychotherapeutic context of the treatment.
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Faria C, Branco V, Ferreira P, Gouveia C, Trevas S. Total Pain Management and a Malignant Wound: The Importance of Early Palliative Care Referral. Cureus 2021; 13:e20678. [PMID: 35106219 PMCID: PMC8785238 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.20678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer may metastasize to the lung, liver, bone, brain, and skin, with especially high rates of metastasis to skin sites.These skin metastases are called malignant wounds. Patients with malignant wounds often report multiple symptoms, and pain is one of the most common and distressing among them. Despite the availability of multiple guidelines about treatment to relieve pain, almost half of all cancer patients still receive inappropriate care for pain. A multidisciplinary approach can improve outcomes in terms of symptom control and quality of life and enable the detection of previously unmet needs of both patients and caregivers. Palliative care is a multidisciplinary therapy that aims to alleviate physical, psychological, and emotional suffering in patients at any stage of the disease. We present the case of a 53-year-old male with a three-year history of stage IV breast cancer. He was admitted to the internal medicine ward in July 2021 with uncontrolled pain related to a malignant wound in the left hemithorax. This was a case with physical, emotional, social, and existential factors contributing to severe pain, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach for adequate relief. Opioid titration and insomnia and anxiety treatment were initiated. Dressing care was applied with metronidazole impregnation and aminocaproic acid for hemorrhagic spots, followed by fat gauze. He was proposed to undergo antalgic radiotherapy, which was unfortunately associated with new onset of symptoms. Psychological support was provided for the patient and his family. We managed to control the pain and stabilize the wound; however, cachexia become evident with the disease progression. In the last week of his life, the patient still believed he would be able to undergo chemotherapy. He died in the emergency room, where he had gone to seek relief for uncontrolled symptoms. Even though the patient had an incurable disease associated with immense suffering since early 2019, he was only referred to the palliative care team during the last three months of his life. Existential suffering was an important dimension of this patient’s pain and was present until his death despite receiving psychological support. Late referral to palliative care is unfortunately frequent and often associated with poor quality of life and inability to plan or make end-of-life care decisions. Radiotherapy was proposed for pain control but was associated with serious side effects. In a palliative care setting, decision-making always needs careful consideration related to benefit versus harm and must involve the patient and his family. Living with stage IV cancer is an everyday challenge for patients, and clinicians may also find managing such patients very arduous and stressful. Symptoms must be actively studied and evaluated from a multidimensional perspective. Managing expectations throughout this process while maintaining hope is a delicate balancing act and should be undertaken by specialized palliative care teams.
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Niles H, Fogg C, Kelmendi B, Lazenby M. Palliative care provider attitudes toward existential distress and treatment with psychedelic-assisted therapies. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:191. [PMID: 34930220 PMCID: PMC8690623 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00889-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existential distress is a significant source of suffering for patients facing life-threatening illness. Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies (PAT) are novel treatments that have shown promise in treating existential distress, but openness to providing PAT may be limited by stigma surrounding psychedelics and the paucity of education regarding their medical use. How PAT might be integrated into existing treatments for existential distress within palliative care remains underexplored. METHODS The present study aimed to elucidate the attitudes of palliative care clinicians regarding treatments for existential distress, including PAT. We recruited palliative care physicians, advanced practice nurses, and spiritual and psychological care providers from multiple US sites using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Attitudes toward PAT were unknown prior to study involvement. Semi-structured interviews targeted at current approaches to existential distress and attitudes toward PAT were analyzed for thematic content. RESULTS Nineteen respondents (seven physicians, four advanced practice nurses, four chaplains, three social workers, and one psychologist) were interviewed. Identified themes were 1) Existential distress is a common experience that is frequently insufficiently treated within the current treatment framework; 2) Palliative care providers ultimately see existential distress as a psychosocial-spiritual problem that evades medicalized approaches; 3) Palliative care providers believe PAT hold promise for treating existential distress but that a stronger evidence base is needed; 4) Because PAT do not currently fit existing models of existential distress treatment, barriers remain. CONCLUSIONS PAT is seen as a potentially powerful tool to treat refractory existential distress. Larger clinical trials and educational outreach are needed to clarify treatment targets and address safety concerns. Further work to adapt PAT to palliative care settings should emphasize collaboration with spiritual care as well as mental health providers and seek to address unresolved concerns about equitable access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halsey Niles
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Colleen Fogg
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ben Kelmendi
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mark Lazenby
- University of Connecticut School of Nursing, Storrs, CT, USA
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Tarbi EC, Gramling R, Bradway C, Meghani SH. "If it's the time, it's the time": Existential communication in naturally-occurring palliative care conversations with individuals with advanced cancer, their families, and clinicians. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2021; 104:2963-2968. [PMID: 33992483 PMCID: PMC8578593 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2021.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore how patients with advanced cancer, their families, and palliative care clinicians communicate about existential experience during palliative care conversations. METHODS We analyzed data from the Palliative Care Communication Research Initiative (PCCRI) - a multisite cohort study conducted between 2014 and 2016 involving hospitalized adults with advanced cancer who were referred for inpatient palliative care consultations at two academic medical centers. We used a qualitative descriptive approach paired with inductive content analysis to analyze a random subsample of 30 patients from the PCCRI study (contributing to 38 palliative care conversations). RESULTS We found existential communication to be woven throughout palliative care conversations, with key themes related to: 1) time as a pressing boundary; 2) maintaining a coherent self; and 3) connecting with others. CONCLUSION Communication about existential experience is omnipresent and varied in palliative care conversations between individuals with advanced cancer, their families, and clinicians. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Clinicians can recognize that discussion of time, routines of daily life, and relationships in the clinical context may hold profound existential relevance in palliative care conversations. Understanding how patients and families talk about existential experience in conversation can create opportunities for clinicians to better meet these needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise C Tarbi
- Department of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, USA; NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, USA.
| | - Robert Gramling
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington, USA
| | - Christine Bradway
- NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Salimah H Meghani
- NewCourtland Center for Transitions and Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, USA
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Dee EC. The alleviation of existential suffering as part of a good death. THE LANCET HEALTHY LONGEVITY 2021; 2:e778. [DOI: 10.1016/s2666-7568(21)00252-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Yuan XH, Peng J, Hu SW, Yang Y, Bai YJ. Cognitive behavioral therapy on personality characteristics of cancer patients. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:9386-9394. [PMID: 34877274 PMCID: PMC8610857 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i31.9386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The main treatment methods for cancer include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy and so on. Patients often feel anger, anxiety, depression, and other negative psychological reactions in the process of treatment.
AIM To explore the effects of cognitive behavioral therapy on the personality characteristics of cancer patients.
METHODS According to the matching design requirements, 150 cancer patients were divided into 3 groups based on sex, age, condition, and cultural background. Patients in the control group received conventional treatment. Patients in experimental group 1 received an intervention based on conventional treatment combined with cognitive behavioral therapy. Patients in experimental group 2 received family members' participation in addition to the treatment given in experimental group 1. An Eysenck personality questionnaire was used to investigate all the patients before and after the intervention, and the scores for psychosis, introversion, neuroticism, and concealment degree were analyzed.
RESULTS Compared with the control group, for experimental group 1 and experimental group 2 before and after the intervention, the four dimensions of mental quality, neuroticism, introversion and concealment degree all decreased, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). After the intervention, there were no obvious or statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) among the control group, experimental group 1, and experimental group 2 for two personality traits, psychoticism and neuroticism, both inside and outside degree and all four dimensions.
CONCLUSION Simple cognitive behavioral therapy could not change the personality characteristics of cancer patients quickly, but the patients’ personality characteristics were significantly improved after treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Hui Yuan
- Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Juan Peng
- Teaching and Research Office of Medical Psychology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563003, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Shu-Wei Hu
- Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yong Yang
- Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
| | - Yu-Ju Bai
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, Guizhou Province, China
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Bruce P, Pesut B, Dunlop R, Puurveen G, Duggleby W. (Dis)Connecting Through COVID-19: Experiences of Older Persons in the Context of a Volunteer-Client Relationship. Can J Aging 2021; 40:1-11. [PMID: 34666866 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980821000404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and mandated physical distancing requirements significantly impacted volunteer programs for older persons with many long-standing programs either ceasing altogether or pivoting to connecting through virtual technologies. In this study, we collected qualitative interview data from 23 clients and 33 volunteers to investigate their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects on the volunteer-client relationship. Three themes were identified: pandemic emotions, negotiating social interactions, and growing through the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings provide important insights into the experiences of hospice organizations and their volunteers and clients during the COVID 19 pandemic, further highlighting the importance of acknowledging both older persons' vulnerability and their resilience, of building in compassionate community approaches to care, and of finding innovative ways to foster volunteer-client relationships during times when physical visiting is not possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paxton Bruce
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Barbara Pesut
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Rowena Dunlop
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Gloria Puurveen
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Wendy Duggleby
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Fear about Alzheimer's disease among Israeli and German laypersons, persons with Mild Neurocognitive Disorder and their relatives: a qualitative study. Int Psychogeriatr 2021; 33:1019-1034. [PMID: 33046144 DOI: 10.1017/s1041610220003397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common type of dementia, is one of the most feared diseases, obstructing help-seeking, and leading to discrimination. While research interest in fear of developing AD is increasing, little is known about its characterization, triggers, and consequences, especially among different cultures. In this study, we aimed at exploring and characterizing AD fear as experienced by laypersons (LP), persons with Mild Neurocognitive Disorder (MND), and their relatives, in Israel and Germany. DESIGN A qualitative study using focus groups (FGs) and semi-structured interviews was used. Thematic content analysis was conducted to extract key themes. SETTING Israeli and German not yet diagnosed people. PARTICIPANTS The study included a total of 130 participants (63 Israeli and 67 German participants) representing 3 groups: LP (n = 82), persons with MND (n = 28), and relatives of persons with MND (n = 20). RESULTS Two overarching themes were identified across groups and countries: fear of developing AD and fear of stigmatization. Other types of fear, such as fear of a person with AD, fear about the impact of a diagnosis of AD on family members, fear of becoming a caregiver, and fear of losing one's self-determination because of developing AD, were specific to a group type or country. Different types of fear were awakened by different triggers, and were dealt with different coping strategies.
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Liljeroos M, Milberg P, Krevers B, Milberg A. Dying within dyads: Stress, sense of security and support during palliative home care. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257274. [PMID: 34520480 PMCID: PMC8439476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To examine similarities and dissimilarities in patient and family caregiver dyads in their experience of stress, support, and sense of security. Methods 144 patients and their family caregivers participated. Patients were admitted to six Swedish specialist palliative home care units and diagnosed with a non-curable disease with an expected short survival. We analysed similarity patterns of answers within dyads (correlations) as well as dissimilarities, expressed as the difference between within-dyad responses. The latter were subjected to a model-building procedure using GLM, with 13 sociodemographic and clinical characteristics as independent variables. Results Within dyads, patients and family caregivers scored similar in their perception of support and sense of security with care. There was also dissimilarity within dyad responses in their perception of stress and support that could be attributed to sociodemographic or clinical characteristics. When patients scored higher levels of stress than family caregivers, the family caregiver was more likely to be male. Also family caregiver attachment style (attachment anxiety), patient age and the relationship of the family caregiver to the patient explained dissimilarities within the dyads. Conclusions Patients and family caregivers within the dyads often, but not always, had similar scores. We suggest that it is important that the healthcare staff identify situations in which perceptions within the dyads regarding stress and perception of support differ, such that they can recognise patients’ and family caregivers’ unique needs in different situations, to be able to provide adequate support and facilitate dyadic coping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Liljeroos
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Centre for Clinical Research Sörmland, Uppsala University, Eskilstuna, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Per Milberg
- IFM Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Barbro Krevers
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anna Milberg
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Advanced Home Care and Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Norrköping, Sweden
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Reflecting on meaning in an existential-reorientation group psychotherapy approach for cancer patients: A qualitative thematic analysis. Palliat Support Care 2021; 20:313-320. [PMID: 34275498 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521000936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objectives of this study were to evaluate, in the Italian cultural context, breast cancer patients' main meaning themes related to the experience of the disease, on the one side, and to be part of an existentially oriented group intervention, on the other. METHOD A short reorientation-existential (RET) group intervention, structured by using some tools and background from cognitive analytic therapy (CAT) and based on the meaning-centered psychotherapy (MCP) existential framework, was delivered to 29 breast cancer patients. The sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, with the narratives from reflective exercises (meaning of the journey cancer, meaning of the journey of intervention) uploaded to computer software NVivo 11. Analysis of the transcripts emerged from reflective exercises on the personal meaning of cancer and the letters of meaning (goodbye letter) written by the patients to express the meaning of their experience in the group was conducted through the interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) framework. RESULTS Four superordinate themes were identified in the exercise meaning of the experience of cancer, namely "sense of stigma and loneliness (the foreigner)," "guilt (unjust guilt and anticipatory guilt)," "reconsidering one's own life and nostalgia," and "rebirth (a new life, life after life)." Three superordinate themes were found in the meaning of the group experience in the letters, namely "togetherness and gratitude," "legacy," and "acceptance." SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS The study confirmed that a short group intervention, based on the existentially oriented framework and delivered in a public clinical healthcare setting, was enriched by focusing on the personal meaning of cancer. Some themes, such as loneliness, nostalgia, and rebirth, emerged during reflection giving, in written letters to participants, the sense of the group therapeutic experience.
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Ghiggia A, Pierotti V, Tesio V, Bovero A. Personality matters: relationship between personality characteristics, spirituality, demoralization, and perceived quality of life in a sample of end-of-life cancer patients. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:7775-7783. [PMID: 34169327 PMCID: PMC8550274 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06363-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Personality could be an interesting dimension to explore in end-of-life cancer patients, in order to investigate how personality affects quality of life. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the relationship among personality through the Big Five Inventory (BFI), spirituality, and demoralization and to explore their impact on their quality of life. METHODS A sample of 210 end-of-life Italian cancer patients were assessed with the BFI, the Demoralization Scale (DS), the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Spiritual Well-Being (FACIT-SP-12), the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Scale-General Measure (FACT-G), and the Karnofsky performance status. RESULTS Correlational analysis highlighted a significantly negative relationship between extraversion and agreeableness traits and all the demoralization dimensions. On the other side, neuroticism trait was significantly and positively correlated with the Demoralization Scale (p < 0.01). To understand the impact of these variables on quality of life (FACT-G), we performed a hierarchical multiple regression: in the final model, demoralization remained the strongest contributing factor (β = - 0.509, p < 0.001), followed by neuroticism (β = - 0.175, p < 0.001), spirituality (β = 0.163, p = 0.015), and Karnofsky index (β = 0.115, p = 0.012). CONCLUSION Our data underlined how both the neuroticism trait and demoralization are correlated with a worst health status in terminal cancer patients, whereas spirituality is a protective factor. The study of personality may allow to better understand the inner patient's experience and improve communication between patient and healthcare staff in order to build and apply better-tailored psychological treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada Ghiggia
- Clinical Psychology Unit, AOU Città dela Salute e della Scienza, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy. .,Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Via Verdi 10, 10124, Turin, Italy.
| | - Vanni Pierotti
- Clinical Psychology Unit, AOU Città dela Salute e della Scienza, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Valentina Tesio
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Via Verdi 10, 10124, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Bovero
- Clinical Psychology Unit, AOU Città dela Salute e della Scienza, Corso Bramante 88, 10126, Turin, Italy
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