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Brock H, Dwinger S, Bergelt C, Sender A, Geue K, Mehnert-Theuerkauf A, Richter D. Peer2Me - evaluation of a peer supported program for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients: study protocol of a randomised trial using a comprehensive cohort design. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:788. [PMID: 38956510 PMCID: PMC11221107 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12547-5] [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: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developing cancer in young adulthood is a non-normative life event and associated with adverse physical, social and psychological consequences. High psychological distress is common in AYA cancer patients including anxiety, depression or fear of recurrence. At the same time, it is well known that AYA often report unmet needs for support, particularly in terms of informational exchange and emotional support from peers in order to benefit from shared experiences and enhance self-efficacy. Especially in the AYA group, interactions with other same-aged cancer patients may represent an essential resource in terms of coping with the disease, as family members and friends are often overwhelmed and struggling with helplessness. Currently, there is a lack of professional support services using peer support (e.g. psycho-oncological support, aftercare consultations, social legal counselling) or evaluated peer support interventions in Germany. Our aim is to assess the effectiveness of the Peer2Me intervention for AYAs, in which acute patients (mentees) are accompanied by an AYA survivor (mentor) over a period of three months. METHODS A prospective Comprehensive Cohort Design with repeated measures will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of Peer2Me for AYA. A sample of 180 patients in active cancer treatment aged 18 to 39 years will be enrolled and randomized to the intervention or control condition (a single AYA-specific consultation). Following mentor training, mentees and mentors are matched by diagnosis, age, and gender. The primary outcome is self-efficacy; secondary outcomes include measures of anxiety, depression, health literacy, life satisfaction and social support life. Outcomes will be measured at baseline before the intervention (t1), immediately after completion of the three-month intervention (t2) and three months after completion the intervention (t3). For the final analyses, we will use an intention-to-treat approach (ITT) and compare patients in the assigned treatment groups. DISCUSSION Peer2Me might be an important addition to existing professional psychosocial support services for young cancer patients. At the end of the study, a psycho-oncological intervention for young cancer patients undergoing acute treatment should be available, from which both mentors and mentees could benefit. The long-term continuity of Peer2Me should be ensured through collaboration with different partners. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was retrospectively registered on February 4, 2022 at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05336318).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Brock
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Comprehensive Cancer Center Central Germany (CCCG), Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sarah Dwinger
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Bergelt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald, Walther-Rathenau-Straße 48, 17475, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Annekathrin Sender
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Comprehensive Cancer Center Central Germany (CCCG), Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kristina Geue
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Comprehensive Cancer Center Central Germany (CCCG), Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anja Mehnert-Theuerkauf
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Comprehensive Cancer Center Central Germany (CCCG), Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Diana Richter
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Comprehensive Cancer Center Central Germany (CCCG), Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
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Belen HM, Sarikoç G. Cancer Patients: Forgiveness, Discomfort Intolerance and Psychiatric Symptoms. J Palliat Care 2024; 39:227-237. [PMID: 37306189 DOI: 10.1177/08258597231172838] [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: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Cancer patients try to find answers in the light of their individual experiences and if they cannot adapt in line with the answers, various psychiatric symptoms may occur. There are studies supporting that "forgiveness" helps reduce the emotional burden of patients with cancer in their ability to discomfort intolerance of the disease, find meaning in the life. The aim of this study is to evaluate forgiveness, discomfort intolerance, and psychiatric symptoms in cancer patients. Methods: The data of this study, which was conducted with 208 cancer patients receiving outpatient chemotherapy treatment, Personal Information Form was collected with Heartland Forgiveness Scale, Brief Symptom Inventory, and Discomfort Intolerance Scale. Result: It has been determined that cancer patients have a high level of forgiveness, a moderate tolerance to tolerate discomfort, and enable low level of occurrence of psychiatric symptoms. As the level of self-forgiveness and forgiveness of patients increases, the incidence of psychiatric symptoms decreases. Conclusion: In line with the findings, it can be thought that the high level of forgiveness of cancer patients towards their illness allows them to experience less psychiatric symptoms and increase their tolerance to the disorder. Awareness of both patients and healthcare personnel can be increased by preparing training programs that address forgiveness in individuals diagnosed with cancer in healthcare institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilal Merve Belen
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gamze Sarikoç
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Gulhane Faculty of Nursing, University of Health Science Turkey, Ankara, Turkey
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Wilharm C, Pralong A, Weiß M, Blütgen S, Hallek M, Voltz R, Simon ST, Tuchscherer A. "The Most Important Thing is That You Are Not Left Alone"-A Qualitative Study of Challenges and Needs of Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024. [PMID: 38770689 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0158] [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: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: We aimed to gain in-depth insights into the challenges and needs of adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYA) throughout their disease to detect increased needs for support. Methods: We conducted face-to-face interviews with 15 patients 18-39 years old at the time of diagnosis of malignancies who had completed treatment at the time of the interview. The interviews were analyzed using content analysis. Results: The unexpected diagnosis of a serious illness shocked the participants, especially since many were in a life phase of transition at that time and had little knowledge about cancer and its therapy. They reported feelings of helplessness, unfairness, and insecurity triggered by side effects, divergent information from health care professionals (HCPs), or lack of information. After the end of the therapy, many AYAs were challenged by prolonged changes in their lives since they gained strength from the hope of returning to "the life before." The primary needs were social and psychological support, connecting with peers, orientation, and guidance. Conclusion: AYAs face special challenges requiring support and guidance from HCPs that should extend beyond the end of the therapy. There is a need for exchange opportunities with other AYAs. Trial Registration Number: DRKS00030277 (German Clinical Trials Register); September 27, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Wilharm
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Koln, Germany
| | - Anne Pralong
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Koln, Germany
| | - Mara Weiß
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Koln, Germany
| | - Saskia Blütgen
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Koln, Germany
| | - Michael Hallek
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Koln, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Center for Integrated Oncology Cologne Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (ABCD), Koln, Germany
| | - Raymond Voltz
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Koln, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Center for Integrated Oncology Cologne Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (ABCD), Koln, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Center for Health Services Research (ZVFK), Koln, Germany
| | - Steffen T Simon
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Koln, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Center for Integrated Oncology Cologne Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (ABCD), Koln, Germany
| | - Armin Tuchscherer
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Koln, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Center for Integrated Oncology Cologne Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (ABCD), Koln, Germany
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Schilstra CE, Ellis SJ, Cohen J, Gall A, Diaz A, Clarke K, Dumlao G, Chard J, Cumming TM, Davis E, Dhillon H, Burns MA, Docking K, Koh ES, O'Reilly J, Sansom-Daly UM, Shaw J, Speers N, Taylor N, Warne A, Fardell JE. Exploring Web-Based Information and Resources That Support Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer to Resume Study and Work: Environmental Scan Study. JMIR Cancer 2024; 10:e47944. [PMID: 38526527 PMCID: PMC11002739 DOI: 10.2196/47944] [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: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with cancer experience physical, cognitive, and psychosocial effects from cancer treatment that can negatively affect their ability to remain engaged in education or work through cancer treatment and in the long term. Disengagement from education or work can have lasting implications for AYAs' financial independence, psychosocial well-being, and quality of life. Australian AYAs with cancer lack access to adequate specialist support for their education and work needs and report a preference for web-based support that they can access from anywhere, in their own time. However, it remains unclear what web-based resources exist that are tailored to support AYAs with cancer in reaching their educational or work goals. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine what web-based resources exist for Australian AYAs with cancer to (1) support return to education or work and (2) identify the degree to which existing resources are age-specific, cancer-specific, culturally inclusive, and evidence-based; are co-designed with AYAs; use age-appropriate language; and are easy to find. METHODS We conducted an environmental scan by searching Google with English search terms in August 2022 to identify information resources about employment and education for AYAs ever diagnosed with cancer. Data extraction was conducted in Microsoft Excel, and the following were assessed: understandability and actionability (using the Patient Education and Materials Tool), readability (using the Sydney Health Literacy Laboratory Health Literacy Editor), and whether the resource was easy to locate, evidence-based, co-designed with AYAs, and culturally inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The latter was assessed using 7 criteria previously developed by members of the research team. RESULTS We identified 24 web-based resources, comprising 22 written text resources and 12 video resources. Most resources (21/24, 88%) were published by nongovernmental organizations in Australia, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. A total of 7 resources focused on education, 8 focused on work, and 9 focused on both education and work. The evaluation of resources demonstrated poor understandability and actionability. Resources were rarely evidence-based or co-designed by AYAs, difficult to locate on the internet, and largely not inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations. CONCLUSIONS Although web-based resources for AYAs with cancer are often available through the websites of hospitals or nongovernmental organizations, this environmental scan suggests they would benefit from more evidence-based and actionable resources that are available in multiple formats (eg, text and audio-visual) and tailored to be age-appropriate and culturally inclusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa E Schilstra
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, Australia
| | - Sarah J Ellis
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, Australia
| | - Jennifer Cohen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, Australia
- Canteen Australia, Newtown, Australia
| | - Alana Gall
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Lismore, Australia
| | - Abbey Diaz
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Gadiel Dumlao
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, Australia
| | - Jennifer Chard
- Western Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Australia
| | - Therese M Cumming
- Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, Australia
- Disability Innovation Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, Australia
| | | | - Haryana Dhillon
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Mary Anne Burns
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Kimberley Docking
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Eng-Siew Koh
- South West Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Liverpool, Australia
- Liverpool and Macarthur Cancer Therapy Centres, Liverpool, Australia
- Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia
| | | | - Ursula M Sansom-Daly
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, Australia
- Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Joanne Shaw
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Nicole Speers
- Cancer survivor representative, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Natalie Taylor
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, Australia
| | - Anthea Warne
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, Australia
| | - Joanna E Fardell
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, Australia
- Western Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Australia
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Fox RS, Armstrong GE, Gaumond JS, Vigoureux TF, Miller CH, Sanford SD, Salsman JM, Katsanis E, Badger TA, Reed DR, Gonzalez BD, Jim HS, Warner EL, Victorson DE, Oswald LB. Social isolation and social connectedness among young adult cancer survivors: A systematic review. Cancer 2023; 129:2946-2965. [PMID: 37489837 PMCID: PMC10584376 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34934] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social isolation and connectedness are social determinants of health that have demonstrated effects on cancer-related outcomes. These constructs have been systematically evaluated among pediatric and older adult cancer populations. In this review, the authors evaluated the prevalence, correlates, and psychosocial implications of social isolation and connectedness among young adult (YA) cancer survivors aged 18-39 years. METHODS Peer-reviewed articles published in English before June 2021 were identified from database searches and included articles' reference lists according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Included articles described studies that assessed social isolation and/or connectedness among YA cancer survivors. RESULTS In total, 5094 unique records were identified; 4143 were excluded after title/abstract screening, and 907 were excluded after full-text review. Forty-four articles were included. Few studies used validated measures or directly assessed social isolation or connectedness. Social isolation was similarly prevalent among YAs and older cancer survivors and noncancer populations. Demographic, clinical, and behavioral risk and protective factors for social isolation were identified. Social isolation was related to worse psychological well-being, whereas social connectedness was often, but not always, related to better psychological well-being. CONCLUSIONS This growing literature underscores the relevance of social isolation and connectedness as important health determinants among YA cancer survivors. The identified risk and protective factors can identify YAs who especially may benefit from screening for social isolation. Future studies are needed that directly, reliably, and validly evaluate social isolation and connectedness to inform the development of interventions to decrease isolation and increase connectedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rina S. Fox
- University of Arizona College of Nursing, Tucson, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Grace E. Armstrong
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Julia S. Gaumond
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Corinne H. Miller
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Stacy D. Sanford
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - John M. Salsman
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Emmanuel Katsanis
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Terry A. Badger
- University of Arizona College of Nursing, Tucson, AZ, USA
- University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | | | | | - Echo L. Warner
- University of Utah College of Nursing, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - David E. Victorson
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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Osmani V, Hörner L, Klug SJ, Tanaka LF. Prevalence and risk of psychological distress, anxiety and depression in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cancer Med 2023; 12:18354-18367. [PMID: 37559504 PMCID: PMC10523984 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors (CS) face unique psychosocial challenges, which may affect their mental health. However, there are inconsistencies in AYA definitions and varying prevalence data on psychological distress, anxiety, and depression. We aimed to synthesize published literature on prevalence, risk, longitudinal changes, and predictors for these outcomes and estimate pooled prevalences. METHODS We searched for observational studies published in English before June 1 2022, in PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. Two researchers extracted independently information on study characteristics, prevalence, and risk. The pooled prevalence (PP) of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression was estimated using random-effects models. Geographical region, treatment status, and assessment instruments were considered in stratified meta-analyses. RESULTS Sixty-eight studies were included in the systematic review and 57 in the meta-analyses. We estimated an overall prevalence of 32% (n = 30; 4226/15,213 AYAs; 95% CI, 23%-42%; I2 = 99%) for psychological distress, 29% for anxiety (n = 24; 2828/8751 AYAs; 95% CI, 23%-36%; I2 = 98%), and 24% (n = 35; 3428/16,638 AYAs; 95% CI, 18%-31%; I2 = 98%) for depression. The range of PP of psychological distress varied across geographical regions, treatment status, and assessment instruments. The PP of anxiety varied significantly across continents, while no variations were seen for depression. Studies found higher risks for psychological distress, anxiety, and depression in AYAs compared to older cancer survivors or cancer-free peers. CONCLUSIONS Our research found that one in three AYA-CS experience psychological distress or anxiety and one in four are affected by depression, highlighting the need for specialized psychological services for AYA-CS in oncology settings and AYA-focused interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa Osmani
- Chair of Epidemiology, TUM Department of Sport and Health SciencesTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Lucy Hörner
- Chair of Epidemiology, TUM Department of Sport and Health SciencesTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Stefanie J. Klug
- Chair of Epidemiology, TUM Department of Sport and Health SciencesTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Luana Fiengo Tanaka
- Chair of Epidemiology, TUM Department of Sport and Health SciencesTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
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Corovic S, Vucic V, Mihaljevic O, Djordjevic J, Colovic S, Radovanovic S, Radevic S, Vukomanovic IS, Janicijevic K, Sekulic M, Djukic S, Vukomanovic V, Djordjevic O, Djordjevic G, Milovanovic O. Social support score in patients with malignant diseases-with sociodemographic and medical characteristics. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1160020. [PMID: 37325739 PMCID: PMC10267316 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1160020] [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: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Social support as a complex construct has a positive influence not only on a patient's condition but also on the process of the patient's emotional adjustment to cancer. The goal of this study is to investigate aspects of the level of social support in oncology patients and its interconnection with sociodemographic and medical variables. Method The study was conducted as a prospective observational study in 2020, including 250 patients aged 19 and over, both sexes, with a diagnosis of oncological disease. The research was conducted in the Department of General Medicine of the Health Center Trstenik, Central Serbia, after approval by the Ethics Committee of the Health Center Trstenik, Central Serbia. A social support assessment questionnaire (Oslo-3 Social Support Scale) was used as a research instrument. Results Data collected from the entire study population showed that bad social support was present in almost 90% of cases. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis showed a statistically significant influence of the following variables on the bad social support: education level, activity limitation, difficulties in performing daily activities, the impact of pain on the performance of activities, the need for additional help with activity, the need for help at home, unfulfilled needs for health care, means of information, anxiety score and depression score. Conclusion Interventions to increase social support may be important for enhancing mental health and quality of life in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snezana Corovic
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | | | - Olgica Mihaljevic
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujavac, Serbia
| | - Jelena Djordjevic
- Department of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujavac, Serbia
| | - Sofija Colovic
- Department of Communication Skills, Ethics and Psychology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Snezana Radovanovic
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Svetlana Radevic
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Ivana Simic Vukomanovic
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Katarina Janicijevic
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Marija Sekulic
- Department of Hygiene and Ecology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Svetlana Djukic
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Vladimir Vukomanovic
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Ognjen Djordjevic
- Depatment of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Gordana Djordjevic
- Depatment of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Olivera Milovanovic
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
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Knoerl R, Mazzola E, Woods H, Buchbinder E, Frazier L, LaCasce A, Luskin MR, Phillips CS, Thornton K, Berry DL, Ligibel J. Exploring Influencing Factors of Anxiety Improvement Following Mindfulness-Based Music Therapy in Young Adults with Cancer. J Music Ther 2023:7036622. [PMID: 36787235 DOI: 10.1093/jmt/thac017] [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: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this secondary analysis was to explore physiological, psychological, and situational influencing factors that may affect the impact of a mindfulness-music therapy intervention on anxiety severity in young adults receiving cancer treatment. Young adults receiving cancer treatment for ≥ eight weeks were recruited from adult and pediatric oncology outpatient centers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Participants were asked to attend up to four, in-person (offered virtually via Zoom video conference after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic) 45-min mindfulness-based music therapy sessions over twelve weeks with a board-certified music therapist. Participants completed questionnaires about anxiety, stress, and other cancer treatment-related outcomes before and after participating in the intervention. Changes in anxiety (i.e., PROMIS Anxiety 4a) over time were compared among baseline physiological (e.g., age or sex), psychological (e.g., stress), and situational influencing (i.e., intervention delivery format) factors using Wilcoxon-rank sum tests. Thirty-one of the 37 enrolled participants completed the baseline and post-intervention measures and were eligible for inclusion in the secondary analysis. Results revealed that higher baseline physical functioning (median change = -6.65), anxiety (median change=-5.65), fatigue (median change = -5.6), sleep disturbance (median change = -5.6), female sex (median change = -5.15), or virtual intervention delivery (median change = -4.65) were potential physiological, psychological, or situational influencing factors associated with anxiety improvement following mindfulness-based music therapy. Additional investigation into physiological, psychological, or situational influencing factors associated with anxiety response will help to tailor the design of future mindfulness-music therapy interventions to decrease psychological distress and address the unique psychosocial concerns among young adults receiving cancer treatment. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03709225.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Knoerl
- Phyllis F. Cantor Center for Research in Nursing and Patient Care Services, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emanuele Mazzola
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heather Woods
- The Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Lindsay Frazier
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ann LaCasce
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marlise R Luskin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carolyn S Phillips
- Phyllis F. Cantor Center for Research in Nursing and Patient Care Services, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Katherine Thornton
- Department of Medical Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Donna L Berry
- Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Informatics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jennifer Ligibel
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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9
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Zhang A, Wang K, Acquati C, Kamat A, Walling E. Age as a moderator for the association between depression and self-rated health among cancer survivors: a U.S. based population study. J Psychosoc Oncol 2022:1-16. [PMID: 36154823 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2022.2124393] [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: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-rated health (SRH) is a salient outcome for cancer survivors. Although depression is a well-studied correlate with SRH, few studies have focused on the role of cancer survivors' age on the association between depression and SRH. This study evaluates demographic and psychosocial factors associated with cancer survivors' SRH. We also assess the moderating role of age to the association between depression and SRH. MATERIALS AND METHODS This paper analyzed 2,470 U.S. cancer survivors from the 2019 National Health Interview Survey. Two ordered logistic regression models with complex survey weights were used for analyses. Missing data was addressed using multiple imputations by chained equations. RESULTS Being female, higher education and higher income were positively associated with better SRH. While the relationship between higher education and higher income was consistent with previous findings, the positive association between being female and SRH was different from previous studies. Age significantly moderated the association between depression and SRH, evidenced by results of the joint tests of all interaction term coefficients being statistically significant, F(2, 544.6) = 5.13, p < 0.01. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the study highlighted the significance of screening for social determinants of health and health disparity when supporting cancer survivors. Additionally, findings of this study emphasized the significance of adopting an age-specific approach when evaluating and addressing depression across different age groups of cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anao Zhang
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kaipeng Wang
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Chiara Acquati
- Graduate College of Social Work, University of Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Health Disparities Research, MD Anderson Cancer Center, The University of Texas, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Aarti Kamat
- Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Emily Walling
- Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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10
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Li L, Wang L, Duan Y, Xiao P, Zhou Y, Luo X, Liu X, Xie J, Cheng ASK. Intelligent physical activity versus modified behavioral activation in adolescent and young adult cancer patients with psychological distress: A randomized, controlled pilot trial. Cancer Med 2022; 12:1935-1948. [PMID: 35848716 PMCID: PMC9883549 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 80% of adolescent and young adult cancer patients (AYACPs) experienced psychological distress. Physical activity and behavioral activation are effective to relieve the psychological distress in AYACPs. METHODS Participants aged 15-39 years diagnosed with malignant tumors were included. A total of 143 eligible AYACPs were randomly assigned to three groups. The treatment-as-usual group (N = 48) received routine care, the physical activity group (N = 47) received 8 weeks of physical activity program based on intelligent wearable devices, and the behavioral activation group (N = 48) received an internet-based modified behavioral activation program for 8 weeks. Objective outcome measures included salivary cortisol and testosterone. RESULTS Linear mixed-model analyses showed significant differences between treatment-as-usual, physical activity and behavioral activation in salivary cortisol, as well as total scores on depression and anxiety, physical activity, self-efficacy, and social support. Significantly stronger effect sizes for physical activity group compared with behavioral activation group were found on physical activity (d = 0.53) (1 week after intervention), moderate activity (d = 0.61), and walking activity (d = 0.57) (3-month follow-up). CONCLUSIONS Intelligent, wearable, device-based physical activity program is more effective in alleviating anxiety and depression, reducing saliva cortisol, and improving physical activity in AYACPs than internet-based modified behavioral activation program. Intelligent, wearable, device-based physical activity program can reduce the time cost of AYACPs to ensure that the intervention is carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Li
- The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina,Xiangya Nursing School of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Lu Wang
- Xiangya Nursing School of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yinglong Duan
- The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Panpan Xiao
- Xiangya Nursing School of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yi Zhou
- Xiangya Nursing School of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Xiaofei Luo
- Xiangya Nursing School of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | | | - Jianfei Xie
- The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Andy S. K. Cheng
- Department of Rehabilitation SciencesThe Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityHong KongChina
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11
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Efe YS, Özbey H, Caner N, Erdem E, Kuzucu EG, Karakükçü M, Patıroğlu T, Ünal E, Yılmaz E, Özcan A. Social exclusion and behavior problems in adolescents with cancer and healthy counterparts. J Pediatr Nurs 2022; 64:e95-e101. [PMID: 34998654 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2021.12.023] [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: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This cross-sectional study was conducted to determine social exclusion, internalized and externalized behavioral problems in adolescents with cancer and to compare them with healthy counterparts. DESIGN AND METHODS The sample consisted of adolescents age 10-19 years (N = 70) followed up in the hemato-oncology outpatient clinic of a tertiary hospital and healthy adolescents age 10-19 years (N = 92) who were studying in secondary and high schools. The data were collected with a questionnaire for adolescents with cancer and healthy adolescents, The Ostracism Experience Scale for Adolescents (OES-A), Youth Externalizing Behavior Screener (YEBS), and Youth Internalizing Problems Screener (YIPS). RESULTS The OES-A mean scores of cancer and healthy adolescents in the study were 35.68 ± 9.38 and 27.64 ± 5.35 (p ≤ 0.001), the YEBS mean scores were 23.51 ± 4.88 and 20.52 ± 5.42 (p ≤ 0.001), and the YIPS mean scores were 21.72 ± 6.48 and 19.18 ± 7.60 (p = 0.007), respectively. There was a low-level positive correlation between the mean scores of the OES-A and YEBS (r = 0.345, p < 0.05) and mean scores of the YEBS and YIPS (r = 0.308, p < 0.05) of adolescents with cancer. CONCLUSIONS Adolescents with cancer had higher scores on social exclusion, internalized and externalized behavioral problems than healthy counterparts in the current study. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS The current study should lead pediatric oncology nurses to be more aware of social exclusion and internalized and externalized behavioral problems in adolescents with cancer after clinical treatment, and to provide appropriate psycho-oncological care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yağmur Sezer Efe
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Harun Özbey
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Nuray Caner
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Emine Erdem
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | | | - Musa Karakükçü
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Türkan Patıroğlu
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Ekrem Ünal
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ebru Yılmaz
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Alper Özcan
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
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12
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Richter D, Clever K, Mehnert-Theuerkauf A, Schönfelder A. Fear of Recurrence in Young Adult Cancer Patients—A Network Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092092. [PMID: 35565220 PMCID: PMC9105535 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Fear of cancer recurrence is a main concern for the majority of cancer patients during their disease. Young adults with cancer may experience fear of recurrence throughout their lives, given their relatively long potential survival time. More research is needed to identify evidence-based interventions that can adequately address this fear. Investigating the underlying mechanisms that trigger and sustain fear of cancer recurrence is an important step toward this goal. Network analysis is a useful tool to study symptoms and their structural relationships. The aim of this study is to apply the network analysis approach in a sample of young cancer patients to comprehend their specific symptomatology and define the optimal structure of a questionnaire to assess fear of recurrence in this patient group. Future studies may seek to replicate our findings among different age group samples to identify network structures and potential targets for clinical intervention. Abstract Due to the high survival rates of many young cancer patients and a high risk of second tumors, fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) can cause serious impairment for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients. The aim of this study is to analyze the structure of the Fear of Disease Progression Questionnaire (FoP-Q-12) to better understand the construct of FCR. We performed a cross-sectional survey on a sample of AYA patients aged 15–39 years with different tumor entities. FCR was measured using the FoP-Q-12, and a network analysis was conducted to examine the relationship of FCR symptoms. The importance of individual items in the network was determined using centrality analyses. A total of 247 AYA patients (81.8% female, median age 31.0 years) participated in the study. The mean FCR score in the sample was 35.9 (SD = 9.9). The majority of patients reported having high FCR (59.5%), according to the established cut-off. The two questionnaire items with the strongest association related to fears about work, and the most central symptom was the fear of serious medical interventions. The centrality of emotional issues in the sample indicates that these symptoms should be prioritized in the development of interventions targeting FCR. Further research should address this topic with larger samples of patients in other age groups and in longitudinal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Richter
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; (A.M.-T.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-341-97-15438
| | - Katharina Clever
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, MEDIAN Centre for Rehabilitation Schmannewitz, 04774 Dahlen, Germany;
| | - Anja Mehnert-Theuerkauf
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; (A.M.-T.); (A.S.)
| | - Antje Schönfelder
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany; (A.M.-T.); (A.S.)
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13
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Rodríguez E, García Lumbreras S, Buscemi V, Cortí Barberá V. Experiencia del paciente oncológico durante la pandemia por el COVID-19 y su opinión sobre la telemedicina. PSICOONCOLOGIA 2022. [DOI: 10.5209/psic.80796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objetivo: la pandemia por el COVID-19 está generando un importante impacto emocional en la población general y, en especial, en los pacientes crónicos, como los oncológicos. Además, ha supuesto cambios en la atención sanitaria. El presente estudio pretende conocer este impacto, en la población oncológica y, desde su propia experiencia, explorar sus estrategias de afrontamiento así como conocer su opinión sobre la atención sanitaria recibida. Metodología: participaron 118 pacientes pertenecientes a 5 centros hospitalarios de la provincia de Barcelona. Los datos fueron recogidos a través del cuestionario HADS y de un cuestionario ad-hoc para valorar el malestar emocional, las estrategias de afrontamiento, la percepción de riesgo de contagio, el apoyo social y los cambios ocurridos en la atención sanitaria. Resultados: el 51,4% de los participantes puntuaron alto en la escala de ansiedad y un 36% en la de depresión. La preocupación (73,7%), el miedo (72,8%), la ansiedad (56,1%) y la tristeza (56,1%) fueron las emociones más frecuentemente expresadas. El 74,1% se sintieron muy satisfechos con la atención sanitaria recibida y el 94,6% refirieron haberse sentido acompañados por su equipo sanitario. Respecto a la valoración de la telemedicina, un 40,7% manifestaron no estar a favor de esta alternativa mientras que el 33,7% consideraron que era una buena opción. Conclusiones: los pacientes oncológicos consideran que la pandemia ha afectado negativamente a su estado emocional y su calidad de vida. Conocer la opinión que tienen los pacientes sobre la telemedicina nos puede ayudar a definir más adecuadamente el uso de este tipo de asistencia.
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14
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Psychosocial Distress Due to Interference of Normal Developmental Milestones in AYAs with Cancer. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9030309. [PMID: 35327680 PMCID: PMC8947616 DOI: 10.3390/children9030309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Cancer in the adolescent and young adult phase poses additional challenges to this period of development that is crucial to the transition to independence. This report provides a brief review of normal developmental milestones in this age range while highlighting the disruptive effects of cancer. We focus on the psychological burden of cancer in patients aged 15–39 years and explore the application of the total pain model to highlight the psychological/emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of non-physical pain. We also briefly review posttraumatic growth and resilience. Lastly, we provide a review of areas for possible development and future research.
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15
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Song Y, Wang B, Liu S, Tong H, Hong J, Wang W. Development and validation of the Professional Nursing Support Scale for Chinese patients with cancer. Int J Nurs Pract 2021; 28:e13020. [PMID: 34658105 DOI: 10.1111/ijn.13020] [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] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to develop and test the psychometric properties of a Professional Nursing Support Scale for patients with cancer in mainland China. METHODS The study was conducted in two phases from January 2017 to January 2020. Phase I involved item generation and developing a preliminary version of Professional Nursing Support Scale through literature review, qualitative interviews, content validity evaluation and a pilot study. Phase II involved psychometric properties testing of the Professional Nursing Support Scale in 700 patients with cancer recruited from four public hospitals in Anhui Province, China. RESULTS A 49-item Professional Nursing Support Scale was finally developed. Exploratory factor analysis showed a four-factor structure of the 49-item Professional Nursing Support Scale, accounting for 56.95% of variance. Cronbach's α ranged from 0.91 to 0.94 for the four subscales. Confirmatory factor analysis further confirmed the best model fit of four-factor structure of the Professional Nursing Support Scale. The Professional Nursing Support Scale also showed an acceptable concurrent validity with Supportive Care Needs Scale short form 34 (r = 0.75, p < 0.001) and Psychological Distress Thermometer (r = 0.39, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The Professional Nursing Support Scale is a reliable and valid instrument to assess perceived needs of professional nursing support and support acquisition in relation to the care in Chinese patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongxia Song
- School of Nursing, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bingqing Wang
- School of Nursing, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- School of Nursing, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Huanhuan Tong
- School of Nursing, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jingfang Hong
- School of Nursing, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Nursing International Research Center, Hefei, China
| | - Wenru Wang
- Alice Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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16
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Rao P, Sproch A, Ungemach M, Cash M, Blackall GF. Life on Pause: Lessons Learned in Creating an Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivor Podcast. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2021; 11:439-441. [PMID: 34582266 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Rao
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Abby Sproch
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michelle Ungemach
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Megan Cash
- Sechler Family Cancer Center, WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, Lebanon, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - George F Blackall
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Penn State Health Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
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17
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Stroske I, Geue K, Friedrich M, Sender A, Schmidt R, Richter D, Leuteritz K. Health Behavior and Associated Factors in Young Adult Cancer Patients. Front Psychol 2021; 12:697096. [PMID: 34539494 PMCID: PMC8440830 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.697096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Having cancer in young adulthood increases the risk of adverse long-term health effects. These risks can be influenced by one’s health behavior (HB). The aim of this study is therefore to investigate the presence of health behavior in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) and to identify associated factors. Design: Young cancer patients (18–39 years old at time of diagnosis) were surveyed at baseline and 12 months later via online or as a paper-pencil version. Methods: A spectrum of indicators for HB was assessed via seven items from the Questionnaire of Multiple Health Behavior (MHB). Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to determine factors associated with patients’ HB indicators. Results: Five-hundred and fourteen AYAs (75% women) reported the highest level of health-conscious behavior for “avoidance of consumption of nicotine,” “follow medical recommendations,” and “being considerate in road traffic.” Less health-conscious behavior was reported for “keeping an appropriate and balanced diet” and “physical activity.” Significant improvements from baseline to the follow-up were observed for “regularly attending health screening” (Hedges’ g = 0.44). The analyzed factors explained up to 10% of the HB indicators. Women reported significantly more health-conscious behavior than men in four out of seven HB indicators. Higher quality of life (QoL) was associated with more health behavior in three out of seven HB indicators. Conclusion: Findings show a predominantly health-conscious lifestyle in AYA cancer patients, though we also found harmful behavior which needs to be better approached—e.g., through improving AYAs’ health education. AYA men should be particularly targeted in specific prevention and health promotion measures. Future work should identify other factors associated with HB to evaluate targets for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Stroske
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kristina Geue
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Michael Friedrich
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Annekathrin Sender
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ricarda Schmidt
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Diana Richter
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katja Leuteritz
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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18
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Relationship of Circadian Rhythm and Psychological Health in Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer. Cancer Nurs 2021; 44:E659-E669. [PMID: 34387235 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000000971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence shows that adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients have an increasing survival rate but experience psychological distress and circadian rhythm dysregulation. Little is known about the effect of circadian rhythm on psychological distress. OBJECTIVE To investigate the type of circadian rhythm in Chinese AYA cancer survivors and examine the associations among chronotype, demographic characteristics, psychological distress, anxiety and depression, character strengths, and medical coping in this group. METHODS This cross-sectional study enrolled 800 AYA cancer participants, 728 of whom completed the Chinese version of the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire, the Distress Thermometer, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Three-Dimensional Inventory of Character Strengths, and the Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire. RESULTS Evening- and morning-type participants accounted for 35.0% and 19.1%, respectively, among participants, which was significantly higher than those found in the general population. The prevalence of psychological distress was 84.9% among AYA cancer participants. Exercise, Distress Thermometer, and depression were important predictive factors for the circadian rhythm. CONCLUSIONS Circadian rhythm disorder and psychological distress were common among AYA cancer survivors. Evening-type participants performed worse on character strength, confrontation, and avoidance of medical coping. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Healthcare professionals need to understand the circadian rhythm and psychological health of AYA cancer survivors. Psychological rehabilitation guidance, especially within the 6 months after diagnosis, may benefit AYA survivors according to their chronotype. Character strengths can also be used during rehabilitation to properly guide AYA survivors.
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19
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Baziliansky S, Cohen M. Emotion regulation and psychological distress in cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Stress Health 2021; 37:3-18. [PMID: 32720741 DOI: 10.1002/smi.2972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Emotion regulation may affect the levels of psychological distress of cancer survivors, but inconsistencies exist among studies regarding the direction of this effect. The systematic review and meta-analysis sought to estimate the associations between emotion regulation patterns (repression, suppression, experiential avoidance and cognitive reappraisal) and psychological distress among cancer survivors. Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria for systematic review, and seven studies focussing on suppression were included in the meta-analysis. The systematic review pointed to a marked variability in associations among the emotion regulation patterns and psychological distress. The three meta-regressions of the relationships between suppression and psychological distress found significant fixed- and random-effect sizes (except marginal significance of a random-effect model for partial correlation). Subgroup analysis showed no moderation effect of time since diagnosis or study quality, but a significant difference (fixed-effect model only, p = 0.005) was found between correlative studies and those controlling for confounders. The current study suggests that suppression is related to elevated levels of psychological distress among cancer survivors, although large inconsistencies exist among studies and publication bias could not be ruled out. Further studies with large samples and a consistent approach are thus required to evaluate the associations of emotion regulation patterns and psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miri Cohen
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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20
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Cohee AA, Kroenke K, Vachon E, Wu J, Tu W, Johns SA. Predictors of depression outcomes in adults with cancer: A 12 month longitudinal study. J Psychosom Res 2020; 136:110169. [PMID: 32559503 PMCID: PMC7484175 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.110169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The prevalence of depression in patients with cancer ranges from 8% to 24% within the first year of receiving a cancer diagnosis. Identifying predictors of depression outcomes may facilitate tailored or more intensive treatment in patient subgroups with a poorer prognosis for depression improvement. The objective of this study was to determine predictors of depression severity and improvement over 12 months among adults with cancer. METHODS Longitudinal analysis of data from the Indiana Cancer Pain and Depression trial was performed in 309 patients (n = 309) with cancer-related depression. Depression outcomes were assessed at baseline, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months and included depression severity (Hopkins Symptom Checklist-20) and global improvement (Depression Global Rating of Improvement (DGRI)). Multivariable repeated measures analyses, adjusting for treatment group, baseline depression, and time point, were conducted to determine symptom (pain), demographic, and clinical predictors of depression outcomes over 12 months. RESULTS Pain was particularly important, with a clinically meaningful reduction in pain predicting a 12-24% greater odds of depression global improvement. Other factors that independently predicted better depression outcomes over 12 months included female sex, newly-diagnosed or maintainence/disease-free cancer, fewer comorbid medical conditions, and higher socioeconomic status. As expected, the three covariates adjusted for in the model (treatment group, passage of time, and baseline depression severity) also predicted depression outcomes. CONCLUSION Pain as well as several demographic and clinical factors predict depression outcomes over 12 months. These findings may help identify patient subgroups requiring closer monitoring and more intensive or tailored depression treatment. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00313573.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kurt Kroenke
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA,Center for Health Services Research, Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indianapolis, IN USA
| | - Eric Vachon
- Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jingwei Wu
- Temple University College of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Wanzhu Tu
- Indiana University Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indianapolis, IN USA
| | - Shelley A. Johns
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA,Center for Health Services Research, Regenstrief Institute, Inc., Indianapolis, IN USA,Charles Warren Fairbanks Center for Medical Ethics, Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN USA,Research in Palliative and End of Life Communication and Training Center, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN USA
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21
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Cicolin A, Boffano M, Beccuti G, Piana R, Giordano A. End-of-Life in Oncologic Patients' Dream Content. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10080505. [PMID: 32752165 PMCID: PMC7464967 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10080505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Both non-rapid eye movements and rapid eye movements sleep facilitate the strengthening of newly encoded memory traces, and dream content reflects this process. Numerous studies evaluated the impact of diseases on dream content, with particular reference to cancer, and reported the presence of issues related to death, negative emotions, pain and illness. This study investigates death and illness experiences in 13 consecutive patients with sarcoma compared to paired controls, early after diagnosis, evaluating dream contents, fear of death, mood and anxiety, distress, and severity of disease perception (perceived and communicated). Ten patients and 10 controls completed the study. Dream contents were significantly different between patients and normative data (DreamSat) and patients and controls (higher presence of negative emotions, low familiar settings and characters and no success involving the dreamer). Illness and death were present in 57% of patients’ dreams (0% among controls), but no differences emerged between patients and controls in regard to anxiety and depression, distress and fear of death, even if the severity of illness was correctly perceived. The appearance of emotional elements in dreams and the absence of conscious verbalization of distress and/or depressive or anxious symptoms by patients could be ascribed to the time required for mnestic elaboration (construction/elaboration phase) during sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Cicolin
- Sleep Medicine Center, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Michele Boffano
- Orthopaedic Oncologic Surgery, Department Oncological and Reconstructive Orthopedics, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (M.B.); (R.P.)
| | - Guglielmo Beccuti
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy;
| | - Raimondo Piana
- Orthopaedic Oncologic Surgery, Department Oncological and Reconstructive Orthopedics, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy; (M.B.); (R.P.)
| | - Alessandra Giordano
- Sleep Medicine Center, Department of Neuroscience, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy;
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Malhotra C, Rajasekaran T, Kanesvaran R, Yee A, Bundoc FG, Singh R, Tulsky JA, Pollak KI. Pilot Trial of a Combined Oncologist-Patient-Caregiver Communication Intervention in Singapore. JCO Oncol Pract 2019; 16:e190-e200. [PMID: 31880975 DOI: 10.1200/jop.19.00412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE High-quality end-of-life cancer care requires oncologists to communicate effectively and patients/caregivers to be participatory. However, most communication interventions target either but not both. We aimed to pilot a potentially disseminable combined oncologist-patient/caregiver intervention to improve oncologist empathic responses, discussions of prognosis and goals of care, and patient/caregiver participation. We assessed its feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy. METHODS Between June 2018 and January 2019, we conducted a pilot 2-arm cluster trial in Singapore, randomly assigning 10 oncologists in a 1:1 ratio to receive the combined intervention or usual care. Intervention arm oncologists received online communication skills training, and their patients received a brief prompt sheet before consultations. We audio recorded consultations with 60 patients with stage IV solid malignancy and analyzed 30 in the postintervention phase. The study was not powered for statistical significance. RESULTS Participation rates for oncologists and patients were 100% and 63%, respectively. All oncologists completed the online training within an average of 4.5 weeks; 73% of the patients selected at least 1 question in the prompt sheet. Compared with the control arm, intervention arm oncologists had more empathic responses in total (relative risk [RR], 1.66) and for every patient/caregiver negative emotion (RR, 2.01). Their consultations were more likely to involve discussions of prognosis (RR, 3.00) and goals of care, and their patients were more likely to ask a prognosis-related question (RR, 2.00; P > .05 for all). CONCLUSION The combined oncologist-patient/caregiver intervention is feasible and acceptable and has the potential to improve communication within consultations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chetna Malhotra
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | | | | | - Alethea Yee
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Ratna Singh
- Lien Centre for Palliative Care, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - James A Tulsky
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Kathryn I Pollak
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Singapore
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