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Paul V, Inhestern L, Sigmund D, Winzig J, Rutkowski S, Escherich G, Bergelt C. Addressing gaps and enhancing experiences in support services for families of pediatric cancer survivors. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03320-2. [PMID: 38886508 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03320-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood cancer's enduring challenges extend beyond primary therapy. Diverse medical and psychosocial services are available to assist families in follow-up care. This interview study sought to gain a thorough understanding of family motives, satisfaction levels, and barriers to utilization. METHODS The design of this cross-sectional study involves a qualitative content analysis of semi-structured interviews. We interviewed parents of minor cancer survivors within the first 5 years after primary treatment. RESULTS Survivors readily accessed medical support services when necessary. While parents expressed overall satisfaction with the available services, there was a notable gap in their knowledge regarding appropriate psychosocial and family-orientated services. Barriers to access included geographical distances, time constraints, and the absence of childcare options. CONCLUSION There are familial challenges and burdens that fall outside the scope of conventional care services. Tailoring services to family-centered needs, providing more information and easier access to interventions might help to reduce barriers. IMPACT Existing need notwithstanding, families did not frequently utilize psychosocial services as they did medical ones. Identified barriers included lack of awareness, limited availability, long distances, and scheduling conflicts. While many studies primarily focus on adult patients or young adults, the present study examines the gaps and strengths in follow-up care for pediatric cancer survivors and their families. By acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges and strengths of families with pediatric cancer survivors, we can lead to a more tailored and effective follow-up approach that can enhance their overall well-being by minimizing barriers and providing targeted support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Paul
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Laura Inhestern
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Désirée Sigmund
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jana Winzig
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Rutkowski
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele Escherich
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Bergelt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
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Larsen EH, Wahl AK, Ruud E, Mellblom AV, Ålykkja A, Lie HC. Adolescent Cancer Survivors and Their Parents' Experiences With the Transition Off Treatment to Survivorship: A Qualitative Interview Study. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY/ONCOLOGY NURSING 2024; 41:172-187. [PMID: 38656765 DOI: 10.1177/27527530231214528] [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: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Background: Transitioning from active cancer treatment to survivorship represents a vulnerable yet underresearched phase for adolescents and their families. Knowledge of their support needs, the challenges they experience, and how they manage them are useful to inform tailored follow-up care. Thus, we aimed to explore their transition experiences. Method: We interviewed 15 adolescents (12-19 years) who had transitioned off of treatment 1 to 47 months prior at Oslo University Hospital's Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology and their biological parents (n = 16). The interviews were analyzed using inductive, reflexive thematic analysis inspired by Braun and Clarke. NVivo-12 was used for data management. Results: Four main themes were identified: (a) consequences of cancer beyond transition, (b) transition back to normalcy, (c) survivorship competence, and (d) changes in roles and relationships. The families described happiness and relief but also said that the lingering effects of cancer treatment had a profound impact on day-to-day living. The adolescents expressed closeness with and dependency on their parents, and they perceived family and friends as essential for social readjustment. Discussion: Although adolescent survivors and their parents described a wide variety of strategies for returning to "normalcy," their perspectives also illustrate ongoing psychosocial and educational support needs that changed over time. Our findings indicate a need for improved preparation for and support through the transition. Nurses are well positioned to provide continuous and structured transition support tailored to the needs of the individual survivors and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elna Hamilton Larsen
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Astrid Klopstad Wahl
- Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ellen Ruud
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anneli Viktoria Mellblom
- Regional Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Eastern and Southern Norway (RBUP), Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anette Ålykkja
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Nydalen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanne Cathrine Lie
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Blindern, Oslo, Norway
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Inhestern L, Nasse ML, Krauth KA, Kandels D, Rutkowski S, Escherich G, Bergelt C. Reintegration into school, kindergarten and work in families of childhood cancer survivors after a family-oriented rehabilitation program. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1288567. [PMID: 38516352 PMCID: PMC10954838 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1288567] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe the situation of childhood cancer survivors and their parents before and one year after a family-oriented rehabilitation program (FOR) and to identify factors influencing reintegration. Methods We included parents of children diagnosed with leukemia or central nervous system tumor. We assessed parental functioning using the functioning subscale of the Ulm Quality of Life Inventory for Parents (ULQIE) and children's school/kindergarten related quality of life (parental assessment, subscale KINDL-R). Descriptive analyses, group comparisons and multiple regression analyses on data of 285 parents of 174 children diagnosed with leukemia or central nervous system tumor. Results Parents reported changes in their work situation (e.g., reduction of working hours) due to their child's diagnosis. Parental functioning increased significantly over time. Children's leukemia diagnosis and shorter time since the end of treatment were associated with higher functioning in parents one year after FOR. Parents reported difficulties in the child's work pace, concentration, stress resilience and empathy. The school/kindergarten-related quality of life (QoL) of the children was lower than in the general population. One year after FOR, most children reintegrated fully in school/kindergarten, partly with support (e.g., integration assistant). No significant predictors for children's reintegration were identified. Discussion Parents and children experience major changes in their work/school/kindergarten life. One year after FOR most parents reported a reintegration of their children, however the children's school/kindergarten-related QoL remained below average compared to norm values. Even after rehabilitation families of childhood cancer survivors might benefit from psychosocial and practical support offers to support families with the reintegration into work/school/kindergarten.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Inhestern
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mona L. Nasse
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Konstantin A. Krauth
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, Klinik Bad Oexen, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Daniela Kandels
- Swabian Children’s Cancer Center, University Hospital Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Rutkowski
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele Escherich
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Bergelt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Neves MC, Bártolo A, Prins JB, Sales CMD, Monteiro S. Taking Care of an Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivor: A Systematic Review of the Impact of Cancer on Family Caregivers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20085488. [PMID: 37107768 PMCID: PMC10138338 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Research usually investigates adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer in combination with younger and older cancer patients and survivors. However, AYAs with cancer are a unique group, and their caregivers' experience may also differ from other caregivers of cancer survivors. This systematic review aims to understand the impact of a cancer diagnosis on family caregivers, comparing the experience of caregivers of AYA childhood cancer survivors (AYA CCS) and caregivers of AYA with cancer. Relevant studies were identified through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, and their quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's critical appraisal checklists. Sixteen studies (17 reports) met the inclusion criteria. Findings were synthesized separately for caregivers of AYA CCS and caregivers of AYA with cancer. Results showed that caregivers in both groups experienced high distress after the diagnosis. Partners of AYAs with cancer experienced diminished quality of life (QoL) and over half reported moderate to high fear of cancer recurrence (FCR). Findings indicated that cancer negatively impacts family caregivers, regardless of the patient's age at diagnosis. However, findings are heterogeneous, and most do not focus on QoL or FCR. More research is needed on the impact of cancer among these family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carolina Neves
- Center for Psychology at the University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Ana Bártolo
- I2P—Portucalense Institute of Psychology, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- RECI—Research in Education and Community Intervention, Piaget Institute—ISEIT/Viseu, 3515-776 Viseu, Portugal
- CINTESIS@RISE, Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Judith B. Prins
- Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Célia M. D. Sales
- Center for Psychology at the University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Monteiro
- CINTESIS@RISE, Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Departament of Social Sciences and Management, Open University, 1269-001 Lisboa, Portugal
- Center for Global Studies, Open University, 1269-001 Lisboa, Portugal
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Khazaeli K, Hosseini SA, Sortiji H, Saberi F. Spirituality and depression in mothers of children with leukemia. JOURNAL OF SPIRITUALITY IN MENTAL HEALTH 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/19349637.2023.2184289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Khadije Khazaeli
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Hosseini
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Sortiji
- Department of occupational therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Farzane Saberi
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Science, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
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Liu Y, Sundquist J, Sundquist K, Zheng D, Ji J. Mental health outcomes in parents of children with a cancer diagnosis in Sweden: A nationwide cohort study. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 55:101734. [PMID: 36419464 PMCID: PMC9676277 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of paediatric cancer is a crisis for the parents who are the primary caregivers of the affected child. A comprehensive assessment of the longitudinal impact of childhood cancer on parental mental health and the potential sex differences between the parents is lacking. Thus, we aimed to explore the subsequent short- and long-term mental health outcomes among the parents of children with cancer and examine whether the outcomes vary between the mother and father. METHODS By combining several Swedish registers, parents of a child (ages 0-14 years) with a cancer diagnosis between Jan 1, 2006, and Dec 31, 2016 were identified. For each parent of children with cancer, up to five mothers or fathers of cancer-free children were randomly selected and matched, respectively. Hospital contacts for any mental health disorders between 5 years before and 7 years after the diagnosis of childhood cancer were retrieved. An interrupted time series negative binomial regression was performed to assess the short- and long-term impact of a childhood cancer diagnosis on the parents' subsequent mental health outcomes. FINDINGS 16,199 mothers (2852 with a child with cancer and 13,347 without) and 15,708 fathers (2769 with a child with cancer and 12,939 without) were included in this study. Compared with mothers of children without cancer, mothers of children with cancer had higher risks of mental health disorders in the first year after diagnosis (rate ratio [RR] and 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 1.17 (1.03-1.32)), and notably, the adverse impact became more severe over time (RR and 95% CI, 1.36 (1.07-1.74), in the seventh year). For fathers of children with cancer, the risk of mental health disorders was continuously higher compared to matched comparisons (RR and 95% CI, 1.31 (1.01-1.71)). INTERPRETATION Our findings suggested that parental mental health was affected continuously by a diagnosis of childhood cancer in their children. In particular, the mother's mental health was affected more severely. Customised psychological services or interventions are highly needed for the parents of children with cancer. FUNDING Swedish Research Council, Allmänna Sjukhusets i Malmö Stiftelsen för bekämpande av cancer, Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation, ALF funding from Region Skåne and China Scholarship Council.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yishan Liu
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Jan Sundquist
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Sweden
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Center for Community-based Healthcare Research and Education (CoHRE), Department of Functional Pathology, School of Medicine, Shimane University, Japan
| | - Kristina Sundquist
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Sweden
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Center for Community-based Healthcare Research and Education (CoHRE), Department of Functional Pathology, School of Medicine, Shimane University, Japan
| | - Deqiang Zheng
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Corresponding author.
| | - Jianguang Ji
- Center for Primary Health Care Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Malmö, Lund University, Sweden
- Corresponding author.
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Pediatric Cancer as a Factor of Changes in the Family. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095002. [PMID: 35564396 PMCID: PMC9105820 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The occurrence of pediatric cancer is an example of a non-normative situation that reorganizes family life. The aim of the study was to evaluate the functioning of a family with a child affected by cancer. The study was conducted on 339 families. The study group consisted of 153 families with children with cancer (mean age 36.4 ± 6.8 years). The control group was composed of 186 families with healthy children (mean age 39.0 ± 6.3 years). All of them completed the author’s survey questionnaire on family functioning and the Resilience Measurement Scale (RMS). A statistically significant association was found between the place of residence (p < 0.001), education (p < 0.001), assessment of the material status (p < 0.001) and employment structure (p < 0.001) of parents and the membership in the study group or the control group. Statistical significance was achieved for the main effects as measured on the RMS (5 factors and 2 groups). The study group showed consistently lower levels of the factors of the scale. Statistically significant observations were reported for Factor 1 (perseverance, proactive approach) and Factor 4 (tolerance to failure, life as a challenge) (12.0 vs. 14.5, p < 0.001, 13.4 vs. 14.2, p = 0.04, respectively). Parents of children with cancer were characterized by lower persistence, determination and tolerance to failure, which could affect the quality of life of the whole family. In addition, different socio-economic conditions of family functioning were found in families with children with cancer as compared to families with healthy children.
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Work-Family Interface in the Context of Social Responsibility: A Systematic Literature Review. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14053091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The literature on internal social responsibility, in which the work-family interface can be included, already has a robust tradition in scientific research. It is, therefore, important to systematize the path that has been taken and what the future may hold. This article aims to systematize the literature that simultaneously focuses on the work-family relationship and on the context of social responsibility and sustainability, with the purpose of mapping the research that has been produced on these intersections. A systematic review of the literature was conducted between the period 1968 and 2021. The search was performed on the SCOPUS database, and the analysis was conducted using the VOSviewer software, with 333 articles having been identified and subjected to a bibliometric and content analysis. As a result, 88 articles were analyzed in depth, focusing on the Work and Life Space dimension and the work-family relationship. The results indicate that corporate social responsibility has a positive effect on the work-family relationship, where an efficient balance between personal and professional life is often measured based on the adequacy of the adjustment of factors such as working hours and social and family commitments.
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Chodidjah S, Kongvattananon P, Liaw JJ. "Changed our lives": Psychosocial issues experienced by families of early adolescents with leukemia. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2021; 56:102077. [PMID: 34998215 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2021.102077] [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: 10/24/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This research aimed to explore psychosocial problems experienced by families of early adolescents with leukemia. METHOD This phenomenology research was done during December 2019-August 2020 and involved eighteen families (47 family members) of early adolescents (10-14 years old) with leukemia. Participants were recruited by using purposive sampling and snowball techniques. Data were collected by using in-depth interviews and non-participatory observations until data saturation. Content analysis was used for data analysis. Member checking and triangulation methods were confirmed for trustworthiness. RESULTS The families' perception on psychosocial problem experiences included three themes and nine sub-themes. The first theme was dealing with adolescent' emotional changes with sub-themes, namely, emotional responses to the illness, compensation for the suffering, and self-showing. The second theme was parents' social isolation with sub-themes, namely, cancer-stigma, burden of care, and jealousy to non-cancer families. The last theme was emotional distress struggles with sub-themes, namely, feeling worried, guilty, and depressed. CONCLUSION Leukemia diagnosis in early adolescents causes psychosocial problems affecting the family lives. Health care providers need to concern and support the families and the adolescents so that they can pass through the difficulties with positive adjustments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siti Chodidjah
- Faculty of Nursing, Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Jen J Liaw
- School of Nursing, National Defense Medical Centre, Taipeh, Taiwan, ROC
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Hsu J, Sansom-Daly UM, Hetherington K, Ellis SJ, Donoghoe MW, Cohn RJ, Zentella-Tusie A, Wakefield CE. Health service and medication use of parents of childhood cancer survivors: a controlled comparison study. Acta Oncol 2021; 60:1325-1334. [PMID: 34308777 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2021.1955968] [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: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of childhood cancer survivors may be vulnerable to experiencing poor health outcomes, but little is known about how these parents use healthcare. This study investigated the nature and extent of survivors' parents' healthcare and medication use relative to a comparison group. We also examined whether demographic or cancer-related factors were related to healthcare use and whether healthcare use was associated with parents' general functioning. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 55 parents of cancer survivors recruited through eight Australian hospitals, and 135 parents of children without a cancer diagnosis, through an online recruitment platform. Participants responded to a questionnaire assessing their health service usage, regular medications, general functioning (engagement activities including work/study) and anxiety and depression symptoms (using PROMIS short forms). We performed regression analysis to determine factors related to healthcare and medication use in parents of survivors. RESULTS More parents of survivors reported accessing mental health services than comparison parents (56% vs. 33%, p=.003), mainly due to their use of social workers. Fewer parents of survivors reported accessing other community health services, particularly general practitioners (51% vs. 78%, p<.001). Having a child survivor who was male was associated with greater use of community health services (B= -0.67, p=.008). No other demographic or cancer-related variables were associated with health service use. Health service use was not associated with general functioning, but greater medication use was associated with higher anxiety scores (B = 1.41, p=.008). CONCLUSION Parents of childhood cancer survivors showed different patterns of health service use relative to comparison parents, but the extent of their use was not significantly linked with demographic or cancer-related variables. Comprehensive assessment of parents' needs in clinical encounters remains vital to identify and appropriately match support needs with available services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hsu
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Ursula M. Sansom-Daly
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
- Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Kate Hetherington
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Sarah J. Ellis
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Mark W. Donoghoe
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
- Stats Central, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
| | - Richard J. Cohn
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
| | - Alejandra Zentella-Tusie
- Psychology Area, Superior Institute of Psychological Studies (ISEP) University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claire E. Wakefield
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Australia
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Hjelmstedt S, Forinder U, Montgomery S, Lindahl Norberg A, Hovén E. Facilitators and barriers to return to work and meet financial needs in parents of children with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2021; 68:e29245. [PMID: 34318997 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to explore what facilitators and barriers parents of children with cancer identify for their ability to return to work and meet financial needs. PROCEDURE Nine focus groups (21 mothers; 11 fathers) were performed across Sweden in 2015 and 2019. A deductive content analysis approach was used. A preconstructed matrix consisting of 12 codes based on previous literature was used to organize the data. The codes were grouped into subcategories, which were abstracted to four generic categories. RESULTS Facilitators for a return to work were covered in the category "Flexibility and understanding from employers and social services," and barriers in the category "Pressure to return without consideration of the consequences." Facilitators to meeting financial needs were covered in the category "Available public, private, and employer support," and barriers in the category "Lack of organized and efficient support from employers and social services." CONCLUSIONS The identified barriers suggest that there is room for improvement in the provision of psychosocial support, which relates to a perceived lack of organized support regarding practical, financial, and occupational matters. The results show a need for a coordinated support system that includes major stakeholders, such as the health care, welfare agencies, and employers. Moreover, employers should consider how to implement more workplace flexibility and involvement of occupational health services. Importantly, to be able to return to work and achieve a sustainable financial situation, it is necessary for all stakeholders to recognize the long-term impact of parenting a child with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Hjelmstedt
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulla Forinder
- Department of Social Work and Criminology, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Scott Montgomery
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden.,Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Annika Lindahl Norberg
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden.,Unit of Occupational Medicine, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emma Hovén
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Christensen SR, Carlsen LT. From well-known to changed everyday family life in families with childhood cancer: A grounded theory of disrupted family dynamic. Psychooncology 2021; 31:282-289. [PMID: 34505326 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5809] [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: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Families affected by childhood cancer need to adapt either temporarily or permanently. This study identifies variables that influence this adaption in positive or negative ways by presenting a classic grounded theory. METHODS This inductive, qualitative study included 69 childhood cancer patients, 39 siblings, 42 parents, and 24 childhood cancer survivors from 104 families. RESULTS The families enter a social process after diagnosis characterized by either shuttling between the well-known and the new or being in a situation with both aspects. The extent depends on the stage of the treatment (initial phase, during treatment, or the end of the course of treatment) and on four variables: (1) the diagnosis and prognosis; (2) the course of the disease, including duration of treatment or hospitalizations, and separation from the remaining family; (3) the child's current state, including symptoms, hospitalizations, and current risk of death or relapse; and (4) whether previous and current needs have been met. CONCLUSIONS These variables offer a possible explanation of insufficient coping strategies, and they should be used to identify potentially vulnerable families. The dynamic of the variables imply that families should be reevaluated during each of the three phases, as the risk of changes to the family's everyday life may increase and therefore their needs may also change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Rex Christensen
- Patient Support and Community Activities, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Line Thoft Carlsen
- Patient Support and Community Activities, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Denmark Department of Sociology and Social Work, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Semendric I, Pollock D, Haller OJ, George RP, Collins-Praino LE, Whittaker AL. "Chemobrain" in childhood cancer survivors - the impact on social, academic, and daily living skills: a qualitative systematic review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2021; 20:222-228. [PMID: 34341312 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-21-00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this review is to examine children's experiences of chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment--also known as "chemobrain"--and the impact of chemobrain on children's social, academic, and daily living skills. INTRODUCTION The effect of childhood chemotherapy treatment on cognition is of concern because of the vulnerable nature of children's developing brains and the potential to cause lifelong detriments socially, academically, and economically. Furthermore, this population is underrepresented in the chemobrain literature and in survivorship care plans. As cancer survivorship among this group increases, it is important to understand childhood experiences so that rehabilitation strategies and suitable supports can be put in place. INCLUSION CRITERIA This review of qualitative studies will focus on the pediatric population (0-18 years of age) during and/or following chemotherapy treatment to identify their experiences with chemobrain. The review will include any studies using a qualitative research methodology (eg, surveys, focus groups, interview transcripts), conducted in any geographic location, where experiences are presented from the child's perspective. Studies assessing children's experiences of cancer, other chemotherapy-related side effects, or the parent's personal experience will be excluded. METHODS A search of MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL databases will be conducted. Full-text, English-only articles employing a qualitative research methodology will be included in the screening process. Two independent reviewers will retrieve and screen full-text studies, and assess methodological quality of the included studies. Meta-aggregation will be performed and a ConQual Summary of Findings will present the confidence in the findings. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO CRD42021240573.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Semendric
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia JBI, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA Australia School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
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14
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Peikert ML, Inhestern L, Krauth KA, Escherich G, Rutkowski S, Kandels D, Schiekiera LJ, Bergelt C. Fear of progression in parents of childhood cancer survivors: prevalence and associated factors. J Cancer Surviv 2021; 16:823-833. [PMID: 34302272 PMCID: PMC9300493 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-021-01076-w] [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: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Recent research demonstrated that fear of progression (FoP) is a major burden for adult cancer survivors. However, knowledge on FoP in parents of childhood cancer survivors is scarce. This study aimed to determine the proportion of parents who show dysfunctional levels of FoP, to investigate gender differences, and to examine factors associated with FoP in mothers and fathers. METHODS Five hundred sixteen parents of pediatric cancer survivors (aged 0-17 years at diagnosis of leukemia or central nervous system (CNS) tumor) were consecutively recruited after the end of intensive cancer treatment. We conducted hierarchical multiple regression analyses for mothers and fathers and integrated parent-, patient-, and family-related factors in the models. RESULTS Significantly more mothers (54%) than fathers (41%) suffered from dysfunctional levels of FoP. Maternal FoP was significantly associated with depression, a medical coping style, a child diagnosed with a CNS tumor in comparison to leukemia, and lower family functioning (adjusted R2 = .30, p < .001). Paternal FoP was significantly associated with a lower level of education, depression, a family coping style, a child diagnosed with a CNS tumor in comparison to leukemia, and fewer siblings (adjusted R2 = .48, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS FoP represents a great burden for parents of pediatric cancer survivors. We identified associated factors of parental FoP. Some of these factors can be targeted by health care professionals within psychosocial interventions and others can provide an indication for an increased risk for higher levels of FoP. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Psychosocial support targeting FoP in parents of childhood cancer survivors is highly indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona L Peikert
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Laura Inhestern
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Konstantin A Krauth
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Klinik Bad Oexen, Oexen 27, 32549, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Escherich
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Rutkowski
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Kandels
- Swabian Children's Cancer Center, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, Stenglinstraße 2, 86156, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Louis J Schiekiera
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Bergelt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
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15
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Larsen MH, Larsen EH, Ruud E, Mellblom A, Helland S, Lie HC. "I have to do things differently now, but I make it work"-young childhood cancer survivors' experiences of self-management in everyday living. J Cancer Surviv 2021; 16:728-740. [PMID: 34097249 PMCID: PMC9300523 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-021-01066-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Living with late effects can affect young childhood cancer survivors' (CCSs) self-management (SM) abilities. In this study, we explored different approaches to SM of everyday life by young CCS. METHODS This is a sub-study of a larger study on Physical Activity among Childhood Cancer Survivors (the PACCS study). We conducted individual interviews with 22 CCS aged 9 to 18 years who were at least 1 year off-treatment. An hybrid inductive-decductive thematic analysis was used. RESULTS Three main themes were identified: (1) managing everyday life with fatigue, (2) building self-management competence, and (3) cancer survivor as part of identity. Late effects, especially fatigue, contributed to a perceived ability gap compared to peers, limiting participation in everyday activities. CCS developed new SM skills to overcome such challenges and pushed themselves physically and mentally to master and balance activities and rest to regain energy. CCS changed activities, adapted their expectations, or legitimized their apparent lack of SM skills to regain a sense of self-efficacy. Managing the impact of cancer on relationships with family and friends also required use of SM strategies. CONCLUSIONS The findings expand our currently limited knowledge of young CCS and SM skills they develop to manage everyday life after treatment completion. These, combined with ongoing support from family and peers, "make it work". IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS The perspectives of young CCS illustrate their SM skills and support needs beyond transitioning off-treatment. Conceptualizing this within follow-up care may contribute to a feeling of mastery and increased satisfaction among CCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie H Larsen
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo (UIO), Postboks 1111, Blindern, 0317, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Elna H Larsen
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo (UIO), Postboks 1111, Blindern, 0317, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Postbox 4950, Nydalen, 0424, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ellen Ruud
- Department of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Postbox 4950, Nydalen, 0424, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo (UIO), Postboks 1111, Blindern, 0317, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anneli Mellblom
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo (UIO), Postboks 1111, Blindern, 0317, Oslo, Norway.,Regional Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Eastern and Southern Norway (RBUP), Postboks 4623 Nydalen, 0405, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sunniva Helland
- The Children and Youth Clinic, Haukeland University Clinic, Jonas Lies vei 65, 5021, Bergen, Norway
| | - Hanne Cathrine Lie
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo (UIO), Postboks 1111, Blindern, 0317, Oslo, Norway
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Parents' perception of their children's process of reintegration after childhood cancer treatment. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239967. [PMID: 33002084 PMCID: PMC7529258 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Our objective was to further the understanding of the process of reintegration of childhood cancer patients after treatment and to identify factors influencing that process. Using a qualitative approach, we conducted 49 interviews with parents (n = 29 mothers, n = 20 fathers) from 31 families with a child (<18 years) with leukemia or CNS tumor. Interviews were conducted about 16 to 24 months after the end of the treatment. We used a semi-structured interview guideline and analyzed the data using content analysis. Average age of pediatric cancer patients was 5.5 years at the time of diagnosis; mean time since diagnosis was 3.5 years. Parents reported immediate impact of the disease on their children. Reintegration had gone along with delayed nursery/school enrollment or social challenges. In most cases reintegration was organized with a gradual increase of attendance. Due to exhaustion by obligatory activities, reintegration in leisure time activities was demanding and parents reported a gradual increase of activity level for their children. Parents described several barriers and facilitators influencing the reintegration process into nursery/school and leisure time activities (structural support, social support, health status, intrapersonal aspects). Although many children reintegrate well, the process takes lots of effort from parents and children. Childhood cancer survivors and their families should be supported after the end of intensive treatment to facilitate reintegration.
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Peikert ML, Inhestern L, Krauth KA, Escherich G, Rutkowski S, Kandels D, Bergelt C. Fear of progression in parents of childhood cancer survivors: A dyadic data analysis. Psychooncology 2020; 29:1678-1685. [PMID: 32779255 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fear of progression (FoP), also referred to as fear of cancer recurrence, is gaining increasing interest in survivorship research as it constitutes a great burden for patients and relatives. However, only little is known about FoP in parents of childhood cancer survivors. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of FoP on quality of life (QoL) in parental couples. METHODS We analyzed dyadic data of 197 couples parenting childhood cancer survivors (aged 0-17 years at diagnosis of leukemia or central nervous system tumor) after the end of intensive cancer treatment. The actor-partner interdependence model calculated by structural equation modelling was used to examine actor effects (effect of one's own FoP on one's own QoL) and partner effects (effect of one's own FoP on the partner's QoL). RESULTS Eighty-one percentage of the parents reported moderate or high FoP levels. Mothers reported higher FoP levels (p < .01) and lower overall QoL levels than fathers (p < .01). The results revealed a significantly positive intra-dyadic correlation between FoP of mothers and fathers of the same dyad (r = .431, p < .001). We found significantly negative actor effects for both mothers and fathers for the overall QoL (p < .001) as well as for several QoL subscales. No significant partner effects were found. CONCLUSIONS Most parents reported elevated levels of FoP. Our results show that FoP in parents of childhood cancer survivors is strongly negatively associated with QoL. Parental FoP should therefore be explored in future research and needs to be targeted by health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona L Peikert
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Laura Inhestern
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Konstantin A Krauth
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, Klinik Bad Oexen, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Escherich
- Clinic of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Rutkowski
- Clinic of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Kandels
- Swabian Children's Cancer Center, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Bergelt
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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