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Ray CD. Nonsupport Experiences of Young Adult Cancer Patients: Prevalence, Acceptability, and Outcomes of Not Receiving Support. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:1127-1139. [PMID: 37102316 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2206178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
This study provides foundational data regarding instances of nonsupport (i.e. instances when support was expected from someone but not received) in the cancer context. In a sample of 205 young adult cancer patients from 22 countries, approximately three out of every five patients reported having experienced nonsupport at some point during their cancer journey. Men and women patients were approximately equally as likely to have experienced nonsupport and were approximately equally likely to be recalled by a cancer patient as a nonsupporter. Results showed that patients who had experienced nonsupport reported worse mental and physical health, greater depression, and greater loneliness than those who had not experienced an instance of nonsupport. Patients were also presented with a previously published list of 16 reasons why people choose to forgo communicating support to cancer patients, and patients rated each reason's acceptability. Nonsupport reasons that assumed communicating support would create a burden for the patient (e.g. providing support would create a privacy issue; the supporter feared losing control of their own emotions) were rated as more acceptable. Reasons involving the nonsupporter making assumptions or decisions about the broader social support process were seen as less acceptable (e.g. communicating support does not help; assuming support is not desired). Together, these results demonstrate the prevalence and impact of nonsupport on cancer patients' health outcomes and provide justification for nonsupport as an important avenue for future social support research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colter D Ray
- Department of Communication Studies, Louisiana State University
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Roach J, Tabaczynski A, Goodman W, Trinh L. "I have to get up and exercise because that's how I'm going to get over this": a qualitative exploration of exercise identity and behavior in early cancer survivorship. Cancer Causes Control 2024:10.1007/s10552-024-01875-3. [PMID: 38582809 DOI: 10.1007/s10552-024-01875-3] [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: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Exercise is beneficial for people living with and beyond cancer (LWBC); however, many people LWBC fail to meet the exercise guidelines. Having an identity related to exercise, a component of one's self-concept, correlates with exercising more frequently in general adult populations. Understanding how exercise identity influences exercise behaviors in people LWBC is warranted due to the many barriers people LWBC face in relation to physical activity. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceived impact of an exercise identity of the exercise behaviors and motivations among people LWBC. METHODS Thirteen participants of mixed diagnoses (Mage = 60.8 ± 10.8 years) in the early survivorship period (i.e., within five years of primary treatment completion or diagnosis) participated in semi-structured interviews to identify influences of exercise identity on exercise behavior. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Findings demonstrated that people LWBC with a strong exercise identity engage in high and varied exercise behaviors. Despite barriers such as changes in motivations and ability to engage in exercise, participants maintained exercise throughout cancer by constant adaptation of their outlook and behaviors related to exercise. These results demonstrate a maintenance of physical activity in relation to a strong exercise identity. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Results of this study have implications for the design and implementation of exercise behavior change programs for people LWBC as it provides insights into predictors of sustained exercise behavior during and following cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jada Roach
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, 55 Harbord Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2W6, Canada
| | - Allyson Tabaczynski
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, 55 Harbord Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2W6, Canada
| | - William Goodman
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Linda Trinh
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, 55 Harbord Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2W6, Canada.
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Díaz-Heredia LP, Bueno-Robles LS, Bejarano Beltrán MP, Pardo Torres MP. Experiences of Women With Breast Cancer and Their Partners in Achieving Coherence as a Couple During the Disease Journey. Nurs Womens Health 2024; 28:135-142. [PMID: 38412974 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2023.10.005] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the experiences of female patients with breast cancer and their partners in achieving coherence as a couple during the disease journey. DESIGN Qualitative study. SETTING Colombia, South America. PARTICIPANTS Women diagnosed with breast cancer in the last 2 years and their intimate partners with whom they lived during the 6 months before study enrollment. In total, 16 heterosexual couples participated in individual interviews and focus groups. METHOD Interviews and focus groups were analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS Four themes were identified: The Diagnosis: A Moment That Destabilizes the Couple, Couple's Sexuality: Seeking the Best Conditions Between Desire and Reality, Generating Mutually Supportive Dynamics in the Face of Cancer, and The Transformation of a Negative Situation Into a Positive One and Achieving Coherence Within the Couple. The first theme represents the initial moment of uncertainty and emotional reactions due to the confirmation of the diagnosis of breast cancer. The second captures the physical and emotional effects in the couple's sexuality generated by the treatment and diagnosis as well as the strategies used to strengthen the couple's relationship. The third reflects how the couple's support is based on commitment, companionship, and the performance of daily actions. The last describes how the adaptation process allows couples experiencing the disease to achieve coherence. CONCLUSION These findings highlight that couples experiencing breast cancer can transform the negative situation into an opportunity to strengthen their relationship by achieving coherence. Future research is needed to investigate the antecedents, attributes, and outcomes related to couples' coherence. Moreover, health professionals should perform periodic assessments on the dynamics, coping strategies, and resources at couples' disposal to help promote couples' adaptation and coherence.
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Wondimagegnehu A, Assefa M, Teferra S, Kantelhardt EJ, Zebrack B, Addissie A. A Qualitative Study on Psychosocial Challenges of Patients With Cancer in Ethiopia Using the Social-Ecological Model. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:10497323231219409. [PMID: 38229470 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231219409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be physically arduous, disrupting patients' social and work lives. Understanding the extent of these problems is key to addressing patients' needs, but specific psychosocial challenges have not yet been well studied in resource-limited settings. A qualitative study was conducted in the capital and two regions of Ethiopia with the aim of exploring psychosocial challenges among cancer patients. A total of 14 in-depth interviews (IDIs) and 16 focus group discussions (FGDs) were done with cancer patients, health professionals, community representatives, and religious leaders. Four separate interview guides were used to facilitate the interviews and discussions. All transcribed documents, field notes, and reflexive memos were entered into NVivo 12 software, and deductive thematic analysis using the social-ecological model was applied to summarize the main findings. At an individual level, emotional distress, suicidal risk, denial, and refusal of treatment were identified immediately after diagnosis while hopelessness, feeling depressed, and fear of death were commonly reported psychosocial challenges during the course of treatment. Involvement of family members in major treatment decisions was recognized at an interpersonal level. Our result also revealed that cancer patients had strong social support from family members and close friends. In the community, traditional medicine and religious rituals were considered an alternative treatment for cancer. The findings indicate that counselling and psychoeducation are crucial for cancer patients, family members, and close friends. Awareness creation programmes should be delivered through collaboration with religious leaders and traditional healers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigiya Wondimagegnehu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University, Halle, Germany
| | - Mathewos Assefa
- Department of Oncology, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Teferra
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Eva J Kantelhardt
- Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University, Halle, Germany
- Department of Gynecology, Martin-Luther-University, Halle, Germany
| | - Bradley Zebrack
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Adamu Addissie
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Informatics, Martin-Luther-University, Halle, Germany
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Burke H, Dunne S. "You nearly feel a little bit like you've less right to grieve": a qualitative study on the impact of cancer on adult siblings. J Cancer Surviv 2023; 17:1628-1638. [PMID: 36401074 PMCID: PMC9676809 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-022-01295-9] [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: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Family members of cancer patients experience a range of challenges and are impacted in various ways by cancer. To our knowledge, the impact of cancer on adult siblings has yet to be explored. Sibling relationships are one of the longest relationships individuals have across the lifespan. Thus, the current study sought to investigate the perspectives of siblings of those who previously had cancer. METHODS Ten participants were recruited using purposive sampling. A qualitative, cross-sectional design was implemented with both virtual and in-person semi-structured interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The researchers identified five themes relating to both the impact of cancer on siblings and the supports they received: changes in family relationships, sibling's grief is forgotten, benefits of social support networks, supporting their sibling and caregiving and self-support. CONCLUSIONS Cancer organizations and support services should focus on signposting services for siblings in order to ensure they can access support. Further research is needed with siblings to gain greater insight into what supports siblings feel are available for them to access, whether there are any for them to access or how supports can be improved. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS The provision of appropriate psychological support for siblings of cancer patients will ensure they can provide optimal support and care to their siblings. This will in turn benefit cancer patients along their cancer trajectory as adequate support from their caregivers will enhance their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazel Burke
- School of Psychology, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Simon Dunne
- School of Psychology, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Dublin, Ireland.
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Reuvers MJP, Gedik A, Way KM, Elbersen-van de Stadt SM, van der Graaf WTA, Husson O. Caring for Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) with Cancer: A Scoping Review into Caregiver Burdens and Needs. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3263. [PMID: 37370873 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123263] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
AYAs with cancer (aged 15 to 39 at primary diagnosis) form a specific group within oncology, and there is limited information on the impact on their informal caregivers. This scoping review aimed to gain insight into the burden on caregivers of AYAs with cancer and identify the unmet needs they might have. Eligible articles focused on impacts in one of the domains of caregiver burden (physical, psychological, social, on schedule, financial) or unmet needs. In all domains of caregiver burden, impact was reported by caregivers. Caregiving leads to physical problems (such as sleep problems) and psychological symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety, and negative emotions). Loneliness is reported, and little peer-support. Many different tasks and roles must be undertaken, which is perceived as challenging. In addition, there is a financial impact and there are unmet needs to be met. Several domains of the lives of caregivers of AYA cancer patients are negatively affected by the disease. Some of these are age-specific, and tailored to a particular group of caregivers (parents, partners, or friends). AYA cancer patients represent a wide age range, resulting in the engagement of many different caregivers. Future research will need to take this into account in order to adequately provide support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milou J P Reuvers
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1006 BE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Asiye Gedik
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kirsty M Way
- School of Heath Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | | | - Winette T A van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute-Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, 1006 BE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Husson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Zanotto A, Goodall K, Ellison M, McVittie C. 'Make Them Wonder How You Are Still Smiling': The Lived Experience of Coping With a Brain Tumour. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:601-612. [PMID: 37026898 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231167345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A brain tumour can be a life-threatening illness and cause unique symptoms compared to other types of cancer, such as cognitive or language deficits, or changes in personality. It is an exceptionally distressing diagnosis which can affect quality of life, even for those with a low-grade tumour or many years after the diagnosis. This study sought to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experience of adjustment to living with a brain tumour. Twelve individuals (83% female) with a primary brain tumour (83% low-grade) took part in the study. Participants were aged 29-54 years, on average 43 months following the diagnosis, and were recruited through the charitable support organisations in the United Kingdom. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Six inter-related themes were identified: making sense of the diagnosis, seeking empowerment, feeling appreciative, taking charge of coping, learning to accept, and negotiating a new normality. Notions of empowerment, gratitude, and acceptance throughout the illness journey were prominent in the participants' narratives. Receiving sufficient information and initiating treatment were important in negotiation of control. The results highlighted what facilitates and hinders adaptive coping. Aspects which facilitated positive coping were as follows: trust in clinician, feeling in control, feeling grateful, or accepting. Participants on a 'watch and wait' approach, while feeling appreciative, perceived the lack of treatment as difficult and frustrating. Implications for patient-clinician communication are discussed, particularly for patients on a 'watch and wait' who might need additional support in adjusting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zanotto
- Division of Psychology, Sociology and Education, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK
- Department of Occupational Therapy Education, School of Health Professions, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Karen Goodall
- Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Marion Ellison
- Division of Psychology, Sociology and Education, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Chris McVittie
- Division of Psychology, Sociology and Education, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK
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Vani MF, Sabiston CM, Santa Mina D, Trinh L. "Your Body Is Not At All Where You Left It": Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors' Experiences Transitioning Back Into Physical Activity After Treatment. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:998-1013. [PMID: 35677965 DOI: 10.1177/10497323221089855] [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: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) can help manage cancer treatment-related side effects and improve well-being following treatment; however, resuming PA after a period of inactivity due to cancer can be challenging. The purpose of this study was to explore adolescents and young adults (AYAs) experiences transitioning back into PA after a period of inactivity due to cancer treatment. Twelve previously active AYAs (Mage = 30 ± 5.8 years) were purposefully sampled and engaged in a semi-structured interview. The following four themes were generated through a reflexive thematic analysis: PA is described as important and valuable; navigating one's appearance and fitness changes after cancer treatment within the PA context; supportive care is essential to successful PA transitions; and juxtaposed environments: fitness facilities, cities, and green spaces. Developing strategies aimed at gradually transitioning into PA should be a priority to improve AYAs' well-being through survivorship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison F Vani
- Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Catherine M Sabiston
- Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel Santa Mina
- Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Linda Trinh
- Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Darabos K, Berger AJ, Barakat LP, Schwartz LA. Cancer-Related Decision-Making Among Adolescents, Young Adults, Caregivers, and Oncology Providers. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:2355-2363. [PMID: 34382889 PMCID: PMC9198895 DOI: 10.1177/10497323211037654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Decision-making among adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYA) is often complex, ongoing, and multifaceted, involving caregiver and oncology provider perspectives. Engagement in decision-making against the backdrop of normative developmental processes of acquiring autonomy and gaining independence contributes to the complexity of decision-making. Semi-structured qualitative interviews from 11 AYA and caregiver dyads and eight oncology providers examined decision-making processes with specific attention to the role of shared decision-making, cognitive and emotional processes, and coping with the decision-making experience. Five decision-making patterns were identified, with collaborative decision-making and AYA-driven decisions most commonly described. Utilizing hypothesis coding, AYA and caregivers explained how cognitive (i.e., pros/cons) and emotional (i.e., shock and fear of missing out) processes influenced cancer-related decisions. Coping strategies provided clarity and respite when engaged in decision-making. Our findings illuminate important implications for how to best support decision-making among AYA and caregivers, including the role oncology providers can play during decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Darabos
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Lamia P. Barakat
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lisa A. Schwartz
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Darabos K, Renna ME, Wang AW, Zimmermann CF, Hoyt MA. Emotional approach coping among young adults with cancer: Relationships with psychological distress, posttraumatic growth, and resilience. Psychooncology 2021; 30:728-735. [PMID: 33368816 PMCID: PMC10865384 DOI: 10.1002/pon.5621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cancer, particularly, during young adulthood, can evoke difficult emotions, interfere with normative developmental activities, and challenge coping responses. Emotion-regulating coping efforts aimed at active emotional processing (EP) and emotional expression (EE) can be beneficial to cancer adjustment and perceptions of positive growth. However, it may be that EP and EE work differently to influence well-being. This study examines relationships of EP and EE with psychological distress, posttraumatic growth (PTG), and resilience. We expect that EP will be positively associated with PTG and resilience, whereas EE will be negatively associated with psychological distress. METHODS Young adults with cancer (M age = 34.68, N = 57) completed measures of emotional; approach coping (EP and EE), psychological distress (depressive symptoms, fear of cancer; recurrence [FCR]) and indicators of positive adjustment and growth (resilience and PTG). RESULTS Greater use of EP was associated with higher resilience (β = 0.48, p = 0.003) and PTG (β = 0.27, p = 0.05), whereas greater use of EE was associated with lower resilience (β = -0.33, p = 0.04). The EE × EP interaction was significant for FCR (β = 0.29, p = 0.04) such that low EE was associated with lower FCR in those with high EP. Interaction effects were not significant for depressive symptoms, resilience, or PTG. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight differing relationships between EP and EE among young adults with cancer. Interventions aimed at increasing emotion-regulating coping strategies may prove useful in facilitating positive adjustment and growth, strengthening young adults' ability to cope with the diverse effects of disease, treatment, and survivorship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Darabos
- The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Behavioral Oncology, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Megan E. Renna
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Comprehensive Cancer Center and Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Columbus, OH
| | | | - Caroline F. Zimmermann
- Hunter College & The Graduate Center, City University of New York, Department of Psychology, New York, NY
| | - Michael A. Hoyt
- University of California, Irvine, Population Health and Disease Prevention and the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Irvine, CA
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