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Grundström A, Harila A, Lönnerblad M. Educational and occupational outcomes in Swedish children treated for sarcomas: A nationwide registry-based study. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024; 71:e30719. [PMID: 37837179 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many children treated for cancer experience a negative impact on their academic performance; however, most studies of children treated for sarcomas have not investigated academic performance. Our aim was to explore how Swedish children treated for sarcomas perform academically, as well as how they adjust to life afterwards. PROCEDURE We compared 167 pediatric sarcoma survivors with 776 matched, non-sibling controls without a history of cancer, in a retrospective cohort study using data from nationwide registries. Primary outcomes were grades at the end of compulsory education, high school eligibility, post-compulsory education (i.e., education after school Year 9), employment, and sickness or activity compensation. RESULTS Pediatric sarcoma survivors were more likely to be ineligible for high school (odds ratio [OR] 1.76; p = .045) and more likely to fail Swedish (OR 2.12; p = .046), mathematics (OR 2.27; p = .011), and/or physical education (OR 2.24; p = .004), compared with controls. Survivors were less likely to have been employed (OR 0.58; p = .027) and received sickness or activity compensation more often (OR 2.49; p = .008) compared with controls. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric sarcoma survivors have poorer academic performance compared to peers without cancer in multiple school subjects. Survivors seem to catch up during post-compulsory education, but might struggle to find employment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albin Grundström
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Arja Harila
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Malin Lönnerblad
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Special Education, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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2
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Hovén E, Ljungman L, Sveen J, Skoglund C, Ljungman G, Ljung R, Wikman A. Losing a child to adolescent cancer: A register-based cohort study of psychotropic medication use in bereaved parents. Cancer Med 2023; 12:6148-6160. [PMID: 36218005 PMCID: PMC10028064 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5347] [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: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the short- and long-term risk of psychotropic medication use in parents who lose a child to cancer diagnosed in adolescence. METHODS This is a Swedish nationwide register-based study including 184 bereaved mothers and 184 bereaved fathers of 184 children diagnosed with cancer in adolescence. Logistic regression analyses, adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics and history of mental health problems, were performed to estimate risk of a prescription of psychotropic medication (anxiolytics, hypnotics/sedatives, antidepressants) in cancer-bereaved parents from 1 year before to 5 years after the child's death, with a general population sample of non-bereaved parents (n = 3291) as referents. RESULTS At the year of the child's death, 28%-36% of mothers and 11%-20% of fathers had a prescription of anxiolytics, hypnotics/sedatives or antidepressants. The corresponding percentages for non-bereaved mothers and fathers were 7%-12% and 4%-7%, respectively. Compared to non-bereaved mothers, bereaved mothers showed higher odds of prescriptions from 1 year before up to four (anxiolytics) and 5 years (hypnotics/sedatives and antidepressants) after the child's death. Bereaved fathers showed higher odds than non-bereaved fathers of prescriptions from 1 year before up to the year of (anxiolytics and hypnotics/sedatives) and 1 year after (antidepressants) the child's death. No differences in odds between bereaved and non-bereaved fathers were found at 2 years after the child's death. Being unmarried, born outside Sweden, and having a history of mental health problems were associated with higher odds of prescribed medications. CONCLUSIONS Indicative of mental health problems of clinical importance, cancer-bereaved parents had a higher prevalence of use of psychotropic medication. A decrease in medication use was evident with time, but still at 5 years after the child's death mothers displayed a higher use while fathers showed no difference to non-bereaved fathers after 2 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Hovén
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's HealthKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Lisa Ljungman
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
| | - Josefin Sveen
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
- Center for Crisis PsychologyUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
| | | | - Gustaf Ljungman
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
- Pediatric OncologyUppsala University HospitalUppsalaSweden
| | - Rickard Ljung
- Unit of EpidemiologyInstitute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Anna Wikman
- Department of Women's and Children's HealthUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
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3
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von Werthern M, Grigorakis G, Sweet R, Soon K. The Continuity of Cancer: Children and Adolescent's Experiences of Ending Cancer Treatment - A Systematic Review. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2022; 32:2006-2018. [PMID: 36190313 DOI: 10.1177/10497323221128860] [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: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
As the research and treatment of childhood cancer steadily progresses, so has the interest in children's needs, not only throughout such treatment but also following completion. Whilst there is increased literature focussing on the long-term psychosocial impact of treatment completion, little is currently known about how children and young people (CYP) experience the more immediate end of their cancer treatment. The current review seeks to examine CYP's experiences of the end of their cancer treatment. Sixteen studies were retrieved using a systematic search strategy across five databases, all of which used qualitative methodology. Thematic synthesis was chosen to analyse the data. Four overarching themes were generated, which encompassed 'the continuity of cancer', 'ambivalence of needs', 'making sense of the cancer experience' and 'sense of self following the ending'. The end of treatment is a time of complexity for CYP, yet it is currently largely overlooked. In order to scaffold these endings for CYP, increased emphasis and thought needs to be placed on the end of treatment and the support that is provided within it.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kristina Soon
- 4919University College London, London, UK
- 4956Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
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Lemétayer F, Florquin M, Chastagner P, Lanfranchi JB. Life engagement and anxiety-depressive symptoms in adolescents and young adults with or without a cancer history and their mothers: A dyadic analytic approach. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13745. [PMID: 36245427 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13745] [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: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to examine the dyadic relationships between symptoms of anxiety and depression and life engagement in mother-adolescent and young adult (AYA) dyads with and without a history of cancer. METHODS One hundred mother-AYA dyads and 50 mother-AYA cancer survivor dyads self-reported anxiety and depressive symptoms and life engagement. Multilevel modelling analyses were used to test actor-partner interdependence models. RESULTS Significant actor effects of depressive symptoms on life engagement were found for AYAs and their mothers in both groups. But this effect was significantly attenuated downward in AYAs with a history of cancer. In addition, only AYAs' depressive symptoms exerted a significant effect on mothers' life engagement, indicating the presence of significant partner effects for mothers. CONCLUSION AYAs' and mothers' depressive symptoms are related to life engagement. Mothers' perception of depressive symptoms relates not only to their own perception of life engagement but also to that of their AYAs. These findings show the complex relationships that exist between AYAs and their mothers and point to the mechanisms through which AYAs-related variables affect mother outcomes, in the two groups of AYAs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pascal Chastagner
- Service d'Hématologie pédiatrique, Hôpital d'Enfants, Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, France
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Hanghøj S, Boisen KA, Nielsen MF, Pappot H, Hjalgrim LL. A Qualitative Evaluation of the Youth-Check Program: A Psychosocial Intervention Aimed at Young People with Cancer. Semin Oncol Nurs 2022; 38:151268. [DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2022.151268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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6
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Bronk KC, Giesemann X, Donaldson R, Mitchell C. Understanding how a cancer diagnosis can shape young people’s views of the future and their purpose in life. APPLIED DEVELOPMENTAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/10888691.2022.2026774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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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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Hendriks MJ, Hartmann N, Harju E, Roser K, Michel G. "I don't take for granted that I am doing well today": a mixed methods study on well-being, impact of cancer, and supportive needs in long-term childhood cancer survivors. Qual Life Res 2021; 31:1483-1497. [PMID: 34820777 PMCID: PMC9023419 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-021-03042-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE With increasing numbers of childhood cancer survivors (CCS), it is important to identify the impact of cancer and CCS' needs for support services that can mitigate the long-term impact on psychosocial wellbeing, including health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We aimed (1) to describe survivors' wellbeing, impact of cancer, and supportive care needs and (2) to determine how socio-demographic or clinical characteristics and impact of cancer relate to survivors' unmet needs. METHOD In this mixed methods study, a quantitative survey was used to assess HRQOL, psychological distress, impact of cancer, and supportive care needs. Qualitative interviews were conducted to explore the meaning of wellbeing, health, and impact of cancer. RESULTS Overall, 69 CCS participated in the survey of which 28 participated in qualitative interviews (aged ≥ 18 years, diagnosed with cancer ≤ 18 years). Few CCS (13%) reported poor physical HRQOL, but almost half reported poor mental HRQOL (49%) and psychological distress (42%). Health was considered to encompass both: physical and emotional aspects of wellbeing. Cancer positively impacted CCS' ability to care and attitude towards life, whereas relationships and insurance were negatively impacted. Risks for unmet needs increased in CCS with self-reported low health status, late effects, psychological distress, with older age at study or longer time since end of treatment. CONCLUSION In our study, many CCS experienced various psychosocial, psychological and informational unmet needs, indicating that survivors' needs are currently not duly addressed. Current efforts to provide supportive psychosocial care in Switzerland should be further operationalized to provide adequate support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manya Jerina Hendriks
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, PO Box 4466, 6002, Lucerne, Switzerland.,Department of Neonatology, Clinical Ethics, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Hartmann
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, PO Box 4466, 6002, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Erika Harju
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, PO Box 4466, 6002, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Katharina Roser
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, PO Box 4466, 6002, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Gisela Michel
- Department of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, PO Box 4466, 6002, Lucerne, Switzerland.
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9
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Schilstra CE, Fardell JE, Ellis SJ, Jones KM, Anazodo AC, Trahair TN, Lah S, Cohn RJ, Wakefield CE, Sansom-Daly UM. Social Anxiety Symptoms in Survivors of Childhood and Adolescent Cancer. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2021; 11:129-137. [PMID: 34252287 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors may be at risk of developing symptoms of social anxiety disorder (SAD) due to disruptions in social participation and functioning following a cancer diagnosis. This study aimed to explore (1) the proportion of Australian AYA-aged survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer who experience symptoms of SAD, (2) how symptoms of SAD are described by survivors as affecting their daily social functioning. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional design was employed, inviting survivors, aged 13-25 years, who had completed treatment between one and ten years ago. Survivors completed a paper-based questionnaire, containing validated measures of SAD, and an optional semistructured interview assessing current social functioning and social anxiety. Results: Twenty-seven survivors aged 13-25 years participated (M = 19.15, 51.9% male, and 7 years post-treatment). Nine (33%) participants reported clinically significant symptoms of SAD. In interviews, survivors reported worries about how others perceived them and fears around meeting new people. Survivors described that this impacted their daily social functioning, leading them to avoid, or endure with distress, feared social situations. Conclusion: This study shows that clinically significant social anxiety may be a concern for a subset of survivors of childhood/adolescent cancer. Identifying which young people are at risk of SAD after cancer and how best to support this vulnerable cohort is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa E Schilstra
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Joanna E Fardell
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Youth Cancer Services, Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Australia
| | - Sarah J Ellis
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kimberley M Jones
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Antoinette C Anazodo
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Toby N Trahair
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Suncica Lah
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Richard J Cohn
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Claire E Wakefield
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ursula M Sansom-Daly
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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10
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Woodford J, Månberg J, Cajander Å, Enebrink P, Harila-Saari A, Hagström J, Karlsson M, Placid Solimena H, von Essen L. Help-seeking behaviour and attitudes towards internet-administered psychological support among adolescent and young adults previously treated for cancer during childhood: protocol for a survey and embedded qualitative interview study in Sweden. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e041350. [PMID: 34155002 PMCID: PMC8039225 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A subgroup of adolescent and young adult childhood cancer survivors (AYACCS) are at increased risk of psychological distress. Despite this, AYACCS experience difficulties accessing psychological support. E-mental health (e-MH) may offer a solution to reduce this treatment gap. However, research examining e-MH for AYACCS has experienced difficulties with recruitment, retention and adherence. Such difficulties may relate to: (1) help-seeking behaviour and/or (2) e-MH acceptability. The overall study aims are to: (1) examine potential associations between health service use factors, informed by Andersen's behavioural model of health services use, and help-seeking behaviour; (2) examine attitudes towards e-MH interventions; and (3) explore perceived need for mental health support; past experience of receiving mental health support; preferences for support; and barriers and facilitators to help-seeking. METHODS AND ANALYSIS An online and paper-based cross-sectional self-report survey (98 items) and embedded qualitative interview study across Sweden, with a target sample size of n=365. Participants are aged 16-39 years, diagnosed with cancer when 0-18 years and have completed successful cancer treatment. The survey examines sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, actual help-seeking behaviour, attitudes towards e-MH, stigma of mental illness, mental health literacy, social support and current symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Survey respondents with past and/or current experience of mental health difficulties are invited into the qualitative interview study to explore: (1) perceived need for mental health support; (2) past experience of receiving mental health support; (3) preferences for support; and (4) barriers and facilitators to help-seeking. Potential associations between health service use factors and help-seeking behaviour are examined using univariable and multivariable logistic regressions. Qualitative interviews are analysed using content analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained from the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (Dnr: 2020-06271). Results will be disseminated in scientific publications and academic conference presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN70570236.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Woodford
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jenny Månberg
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Region Vasternorrland, Sundsvall, Sweden
| | - Åsa Cajander
- Department of Information Technology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Pia Enebrink
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Arja Harila-Saari
- Pediatric Oncology, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Josefin Hagström
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mathilda Karlsson
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hanna Placid Solimena
- International Maternal and Child Health Care, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Louise von Essen
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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11
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Hovén E, Ljung R, Ljungman G, Ljungman L, Skoglund C, Fransson E, Wikman A. Increased risk of mental health problems after cancer during adolescence: A register-based cohort study. Int J Cancer 2020; 147:3349-3360. [PMID: 32535927 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.33154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In this nationwide, register-based study, we estimated the risk of mental health problems in 2822 individuals diagnosed with cancer in adolescence (13-19 years). Mental health problems were assessed by psychiatric diagnoses and/or prescribed psychotropic drugs. Cox proportional hazards models estimated hazard ratio (HR) for a psychiatric diagnosis and prescription of psychotropic drug compared to a matched comparison group (n = 28 220). Estimates were adjusted for calendar period and parent characteristics (eg, history of psychiatric diagnosis, education, country of birth). We found an increased risk of a psychiatric diagnosis during the first 5 years after the cancer diagnosis (females: HR 1.23, 95% CI, 1.06-1.44; males: HR 1.32, 95% CI, 1.11-1.56), and at >5 years after diagnosis (females: HR 1.31, 95% CI, 1.09-1.58, males: HR 1.45, 95% CI, 1.18-1.77). The risk of being prescribed antidepressant (females: HR 1.54, 95% CI, 1.30-1.84, males: HR 2.06, 95% CI, 1.66-2.55), antipsychotic (females: HR 2.28, 95% CI, 1.56-3.34, males: HR 3.07, 95% CI, 2.13-4.42), anxiolytic (females: HR 1.95, 95% CI, 1.64-2.31, males: HR 4.02, 95% CI, 3.34-4.84) and sedative drugs (females: HR 2.24, 95% CI, 1.84-2.72, males: HR 3.91, 95% CI, 3.23-4.73) were higher than for comparisons during the first 5 years after diagnosis. Median age at first psychiatric diagnosis and first prescribed psychotropic drug were 18 years. In conclusion, cancer during adolescence is associated with increased risk of mental health problems that may develop in close proximity to treatment. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive care during treatment and follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Hovén
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rickard Ljung
- Unit of Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gustaf Ljungman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lisa Ljungman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Skoglund
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Emma Fransson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Wikman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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12
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Shin H, Bartlett R, De Gagne JC. Integrative Literature Review on Psychological Distress and Coping Strategies Among Survivors of Adolescent Cancer. Oncol Nurs Forum 2020; 47:E131-E148. [PMID: 32830805 DOI: 10.1188/20.onf.e131-e148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION Cancer survivors, particularly those diagnosed in adolescence, are faced with physical, mental, and emotional stressors associated with the disease and its treatment. These stressors add to the demand placed on survivors' already taxed coping skills. This article reviews the literature on psychological distress experienced by survivors diagnosed with cancer during adolescence and the coping strategies they employed. LITERATURE SEARCH Three electronic databases (CINAHL®, PsycINFO®, PubMed®) were searched, and 19 studies were selected. Garrard's matrix method guided this integrative review. DATA EVALUATION Gough's weight of evidence framework was used to evaluate each study. SYNTHESIS Analysis revealed important findings about the types of coping strategies used by adolescents during and after cancer treatment and the impact of each on levels of psychological distress. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Healthcare providers, who regularly assess for negative thoughts and unmet needs among survivors, may identify symptoms of psychological distress, intervene early, and facilitate better outcomes for their patients. Patient-centered interventions aimed at coping with psychological distress are most helpful.
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13
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Hagström J, Ander M, Cernvall M, Ljótsson B, Wiman HW, von Essen L, Woodford J. Heeding the psychological concerns of young cancer survivors: a single-arm feasibility trial of CBT and a cognitive behavioral conceptualization of distress. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8714. [PMID: 32219023 PMCID: PMC7085902 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A subgroup of adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of cancer during adolescence report high levels of psychological distress. To date, evidence-based psychological interventions tailored to the cancer-related concerns experienced by this population are lacking. The present study aimed to (1) examine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an individualized cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) intervention for AYA survivors of cancer during adolescence; and (2) identify and conceptualize cancer-related concerns as well as maintaining factors using cognitive-behavioral theory. Methods A single-arm trial, whereby AYA survivors of cancer during adolescence (aged 17–25 years) were provided individualized face-to-face CBT at a maximum of 15 sessions. Clinical outcomes were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up. Intervention uptake, retention, intervention delivery, and reliable change index scores were examined. An embedded qualitative study consisted of two unstructured interviews with each participant pre-intervention. Along with individual behavioral case formulations developed to guide the intervention, interview data was analyzed to identify and conceptualize cancer-related concerns and potential maintaining factors. Results Ten out of 213 potential participants invited into the study were included, resulting in an overall participation rate of 4.7%. Nine participants completed the intervention, with respectively seven and eight participants completing the post-intervention and three month follow-up assessment. The majority of reported cancer-related concerns and maintaining factors were conceptualized into four themes: social avoidance, fear of emotions and bodily symptoms, imbalance in activity, and worry and rumination. Conclusions Given significant recruitment difficulties, further research is required to examine barriers to help-seeking in the AYA cancer survivor population. However, the conceptualization of cancer-related concerns and maintaining factors experienced by the population may represent an important first step in the development of psychological support tailored toward AYA cancer survivors’ unique needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefin Hagström
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Malin Ander
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Martin Cernvall
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Brjánn Ljótsson
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik W Wiman
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Louise von Essen
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Joanne Woodford
- Clinical Psychology in Healthcare, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden
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