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Mackie GM, Boyle F, Lewis S, Smith AL. Finding my tribe: a qualitative interview study of how people living with metastatic breast cancer perceive support groups. J Cancer Surviv 2024:10.1007/s11764-024-01639-7. [PMID: 39048845 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-024-01639-7] [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: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study explored the value of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) support groups, and factors that affect attendance, from the perspective of people with MBC. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 women with MBC (support group attendees n = 16; non-attendees n = 12) between January 2022 and July 2023. Data were analysed using an inductive approach to thematic analysis. RESULTS Three themes were generated: the value of sharing experiential knowledge, spaces for open and honest conversations, and opportunities to find connection and community. These factors were the main reasons that some participants valued, and chose to attend, an MBC support group. Stage-specificity and professional facilitation were identified as important aspects of group structure. Key reasons for non-attendance were concerns about misinformation, confronting the death of group members, and satisfaction with existing support networks. CONCLUSIONS MBC support groups are beneficial for some people with MBC, providing opportunities to connect with others with the same diagnosis. For others, different forms of peer support such as online forums or one-on-one support may be preferred. We argue that ensuring those with MBC have equal access to the peer support they need will be essential in supporting people to live as well as possible with MBC. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS MBC support groups, if appropriately led, can provide emotional and informational benefits for people with MBC. This research may also have relevance to other metastatic cancers where novel therapies are extending survival, resulting in an emerging cancer population with distinct supportive and survivorship needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace M Mackie
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Frances Boyle
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Mater Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sophie Lewis
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrea L Smith
- The Daffodil Centre, University of Sydney, a joint venture with Cancer Council NSW, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
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Haczkewicz KM, Hill T, Cameron CD, Iftikhar Z, Gallant NL. Group Psychological Treatment Preferences of Individuals Living With Chronic Disease: Brief Report of a Saskatchewan-Based Cross-Sectional Survey. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2024; 61:469580241237112. [PMID: 38465596 DOI: 10.1177/00469580241237112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Given that individuals with chronic diseases comorbid with psychological distress experience worse clinical outcomes than those without psychological distress, treatment of the psychological sequalae that accompanies chronic diseases is of utmost importance. Thus, the present study aimed to examine group treatment preferences among adults living with chronic disease in Saskatchewan, Canada. An online survey regarding group treatment preferences was administered to 207 participants living with chronic disease comorbid with psychological distress. The most often reported treatment scenario was virtual sessions (45%) lasting 1 h (51%) and occurring every other week (45%) in the evening (63%) for 3 to4 months (40%). Preferences included a medium group (48%), a relatively closed group nature (ie, only occasional new members; 44%), and group leadership including at least 1 professional living with chronic disease (54%). Future-oriented (81%), supportive (83%), skill-based (95%), and group discussions (78%) were desired treatment characteristics among participants. Survey results showed clear preferences on treatment content and session logistics. Slight variations exist by gender and age, but a consensus can be identified and act as a preliminary treatment plan. This study contributes to the body of literature on psychological treatment preferences for individuals living with chronic disease by outlining the preferred format and composition of groups according to those with lived experience. Group-based psychological treatment for chronic disease patients should account for these preferences to improve its acceptability and usefulness among patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey M Haczkewicz
- University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
- Centre on Aging and Health, Regina, SK, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Natasha L Gallant
- University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
- Centre on Aging and Health, Regina, SK, Canada
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Korst MR, Patel AM, Garcia DJ, Patel AR, Choudhry HS, Santitoro JG, Yeung V, Kra JA. Disparities in lung cancer short- and long-term outcomes after surgery: Analysis from the national cancer database. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2023; 37:100777. [PMID: 37972457 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2023.100777] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Social determinants of health are particularly important in lung cancer epidemiology. Previous studies have primarily associated social determinants with long-term outcomes, such as survival, but fail to include short-term outcomes after surgery. The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was used to draw associations between social factors of patients with lung cancer and short-term post-surgical outcomes, while comparing them to prognostic factors, including stage at diagnosis and survival. METHODS The 2004-17 NCDB was queried for patients with primary epithelial tumor, squamous cell carcinoma, or adenocarcinoma of the lung treated with curative intent. Linear, binary logistic, Kaplan-Meier, and Cox proportional hazards regression models were utilized. RESULTS On logistic regression modeling, male gender, low income, lacking insurance, and facility in the central United States were associated with poor short-term outcomes (<0.05). Increased age, White race, and Black race were associated with increased length of hospital stay and mortality, but negatively correlated with readmission rates (<0.05). Medicare and Medicaid were associated with increased length of stay and mortality, respectively (<0.05). Similar patterns were observed for higher stage at diagnosis (<0.05). Hazard ratios were elevated with increased age, male gender, White race, lacking insurance, Medicaid, and facility in the central United States (<0.05). CONCLUSION Many social factors previously associated with poor prognosis after lung cancer diagnosis are also associated with poor short-term outcomes after surgery. This study implies that healthcare providers treating lung cancer should proceed with care while aware that patients with the discussed social factors are predisposed to complicated recoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark R Korst
- Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School. 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Aman M Patel
- Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School. 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Daniel J Garcia
- Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School. 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Akash R Patel
- Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School. 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Hassaam S Choudhry
- Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School. 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Joseph G Santitoro
- Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School. 185 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Vincent Yeung
- Division of Hematology/Oncology - Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School - Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey at University Hospital. 205 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07103, United States
| | - Joshua A Kra
- Division of Hematology/Oncology - Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School - Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey at University Hospital. 205 S Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07103, United States.
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Durosini I, Triberti S, Sebri V, Giudice AV, Guiddi P, Pravettoni G. Psychological Benefits of a Sport-Based Program for Female Cancer Survivors: The Role of Social Connections. Front Psychol 2021; 12:751077. [PMID: 34899491 PMCID: PMC8664561 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.751077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the context of sports-based interventions for improving health and quality of life in chronic patients, participants could develop meaningful social relationships that affect their well-being as much as intervention activities. In this study, 80 female cancer survivors participated in a running-based group intervention (2 sessions/week; 1.5 h), while 51 acted as controls. The intervention lasted approximately 5 months. Unfortunately, the length of the intervention was reduced and sport activities were altered by the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown mid-intervention, while the shared therapy sessions continued online. This possibly altered the results, as anxiety, depression, and physical aspects did not show significant differences between the experimental and control groups after the intervention. Participants reported positive comments on the experience as a whole, especially regarding the positive influence of the newly developed social connections. This was corroborated by significant correlations between group perceived cohesion and anxiety, depression, self-efficacy, and positive experience with the group psychological support. Overall, it is possible to suggest that in the program an important role was played by social connections and support, peer influence and the group experience, preserving positive experiential qualities of the intervention even if it was altered by external circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Durosini
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Triberti
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Sebri
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Viola Giudice
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Guiddi
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Szuhany KL, Malgaroli M, Riley G, Miron CD, Suzuki R, Park JH, Rosenthal J, Chachoua A, Meyers M, Simon NM. Barriers and engagement in breast cancer survivorship wellness activities. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 188:317-325. [PMID: 34095986 PMCID: PMC8482782 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06279-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer survivors may be at risk for increased rates of emotional distress and poorer quality of life. Survivorship care plans (SCPs) promoting wellness activities may support well-being; however, survivors may not receive or engage in their SCPs. This study aimed to assess receipt and participation in SCP activities as well as barriers to engagement amongst breast cancer survivors. METHODS Breast cancer survivors (n = 187; 99% female, Mean age = 57.7) consented and completed self-reported assessments of SCP recommendations, engagement and interest in wellness activities, and potential barriers to engagement. RESULTS A minority of participants recalled receiving an SCP (21%). The most physician recommended (62%) and completed (53%) activity was exercise. Interest in adding other wellness activities to the SCP was high, with reported interest levels of approximately 50% for several activities (e.g., mind body, nutrition, psychotherapy interventions). Fully half reported that having a physician-designed plan would influence participation in activities. The most common reported barriers to SCP activity engagement were lack of time (82%), work/school (65%), and lack of information (65%). CONCLUSION Few survivors recalled receiving a formal SCP, and lack of information about wellness activities was a commonly reported barrier to participation. Interest in wellness activities was generally high and may indicate the need for more formal prescription or motivation enhancement techniques to promote SCP engagement. There may be a clinical need to emphasize SCP recommendations to enhance recall and increase engagement in wellness activities that may reduce psychological distress and improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin L Szuhany
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Matteo Malgaroli
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gabriella Riley
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carly D Miron
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Jane Rosenthal
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Abraham Chachoua
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marleen Meyers
- Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Naomi M Simon
- Department of Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Pieters HC, Green E, Sleven M. "It Just Hit Me Like a Ton of Bricks": Improving the Patient Experience of Receiving a Breast Cancer Diagnosis at an Older Age. Res Gerontol Nurs 2021; 14:79-89. [PMID: 33492403 DOI: 10.3928/19404921-20210115-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the current study was to describe the experiences of older women receiving a diagnosis of early-stage breast cancer. Thematic analysis informed by techniques from constructivist grounded theory was used to analyze interviews with 54 women aged ≥65 years an average of 19.6 months after diagnosis. Two themes were identified: The Overwhelming Shock of Receiving a Diagnosis and Contextualizing the Diagnosis in Relation to Age. Results suggest these participants were deeply shocked by a diagnosis that clinicians may view as highly treatable. Age-related factors impacting how the bad news was received include misunderstanding risk factors, the impact of comorbidities, concurrent life events, and evolving perceptions of cancer at her life stage. To establish a solid foundation for age-appropriate communication when giving bad news, these participants help clinicians acknowledge what women may be thinking. Potential clinician responses to the variety of concerns are presented. [Research in Gerontological Nursing, 14(2), 79-89.].
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