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Willis KD, Reid MP, Fox A, Kleva CS, Sherwood P, Loughan AR. The impact of a primary brain tumor diagnosis on caregivers: Insights from the patients' perspective. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:595. [PMID: 39160352 PMCID: PMC11333512 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08783-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The diagnosis of a primary brain tumor (PBT) causes significant distress for the caregiver-patient dyad, warranting increased supportive care intervention. Although researchers have previously assessed caregivers' perceptions of their own supportive care needs, no study to date has identified how patients perceive the caregiving experience and/or patients' recommendations for integrating supportive care of caregivers in neuro-oncology. This qualitative study examined caregiver distress as well as caregiver supportive care needs from the patients' perspective to inform future intervention development. METHODS Adults with PBT (N = 15; Mage = 45; 53% female; 93% White) were divided into four, 90-min focus groups moderated by a clinical neuropsychologist. Patients responded to semi-structured interview questions regarding various supportive care needs throughout the course of disease. Each discussion was transcribed and coded using thematic content analysis and NVivo software. Inter-rater reliability was excellent (MKappa = 0.92, range = 0.85-0.93). RESULTS Seven distinct codes related to PBT caregivers emerged and were classified into two broader themes: Caregiver Impact (47% of coded content) and Caregiver Support (53% of coded content). Caregiver Impact refers to patients' perspective of the practical and emotional demands of caregiving. Under Caregiver Support, patients cited a strong need for increased support of caregivers, including bereavement care, individual psychotherapy, and joint caregiver-patient dyad sessions. CONCLUSION Patients with PBT expressed profound concerns regarding the demands of caregiving and its impact on the well-being of their loved ones. Findings emphasize the need for comprehensive dyadic support in neuro-oncology throughout the disease trajectory to enhance the overall quality-of-life for both patients and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelcie D Willis
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Psychiatric Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Morgan P Reid
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Amber Fox
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Christopher S Kleva
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Paula Sherwood
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ashlee R Loughan
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, VCU School of Medicine, 1201 East Marshall St, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
- Massey Cancer Center, VCU School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA.
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2
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Whisenant M, Weathers SP, Li Y, Aldrich E, Ownby K, Thomas J, Ngo-Huang A, Bruera E, Milbury K. Simulation-based caregiving skills training for family members of high-grade glioma patients. Neurooncol Pract 2024; 11:432-440. [PMID: 39006525 PMCID: PMC11241359 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npae025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Because family caregivers of patients with a high-grade glioma experience high levels of distress and feel unprepared to perform the complex caregiving tasks associated with the disease and its treatment, we pilot-tested a caregiving skills intervention that integrates hands-on caregiving with coping skill training. Methods In this single-arm trial, caregivers participated in a 4-session research nurse-led intervention involving simulation-based caregiving skills training at the hospital and psychoeducation delivered via videoconference. We collected measures of patients' and caregivers' psychological symptoms; caregivers' caregiving self-efficacy and role adjustment; and patients' cancer-related symptoms (MDASI) at baseline and again postintervention. We tracked feasibility data. Results We approached 29 dyads of which 10 dyads (34%) consented. All patients (mean age: 60 years, 89% male) and caregivers (mean age: 58 years, 80% female, 80% spouses) completed the baseline and 7 dyads completed the follow-up assessments (attrition was related to patient's hospice transfer). Seven caregivers completed all 4 sessions and rated the program as beneficial. Paired t-tests revealed a significant improvement in caregiving self-efficacy at 6 weeks postintervention (t = -3.06, P = .02). Although improvements in caregiver role adjustment and patient and caregiver symptoms were not observed, no decreases in symptom burden or role adjustment were found during the follow-up period. Conclusions This novel supportive care program appears to be safe, feasible, acceptable, and perceived as useful for caregivers of patients with high-grade glioma. Based on feasibility indicators and a signal of intervention efficacy, a randomized controlled trial is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan Whisenant
- Department of Behavioral Science, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shiao-Pei Weathers
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yisheng Li
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ellen Aldrich
- Department of Behavioral Science, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kristin Ownby
- Cizik School of Nursing, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jessica Thomas
- Cizik School of Nursing, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - An Ngo-Huang
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, & Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, & Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kathrin Milbury
- Department of Behavioral Science, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Dağdelen D, Zincir H. Effects of dependent care theory-based post-surgical home care intervention on self-care, symptoms, and caregiver burden in patients with primary brain tumor and their caregivers: a randomized controlled trial. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:296. [PMID: 38635060 PMCID: PMC11026272 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08488-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to examine the effect of dependent care theory-based post-surgical home care intervention on self-care, symptoms, and caregiver burden in primary brain tumor patients and their caregivers. METHODS A parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted with patients who underwent surgery for a primary brain tumor between March 2019 and January 2020 in a tertiary hospital and with caregivers who cared for them at home. Eligible patients and caregivers were determined by block randomization. Outcome measures included validated measures of self-care agency (Self-Care Agency Scale), symptoms and interference by symptoms (MD Anderson Symptom Inventory Brain Tumor-Turkish Form), and caregiver burden (Caregiver Burden Scale). Two-way analysis of variance was used in repeated measurements from general linear models compared to scale scores. RESULTS Self-care agency was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group in the first and sixth months after surgery (p < 0.05). The severity of the patients' emotional, focal neurologic, and cognitive symptoms and interference by symptoms were significantly lower in the intervention group than in the control group (p < 0.05). Caregiver burden was significantly lower in the intervention group in the first, third, and sixth months after surgery (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Dependent care theory-based post-surgical home care intervention increased patients' self-care and reduced symptoms and their effects. It also reduced the caregiver burden. Dependent care theory can guide the nursing practices of nurses who provide institutional and/or home care services to patients with chronic diseases and their caregivers. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05328739 on April 14, 2022 (retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
- Derya Dağdelen
- Department of Public Health Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Handan Zincir
- Department of Public Health Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Erciyes University, 38280, Kayseri, Turkey
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4
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Cantisano N, Menei P, Roualdes V, Seizeur R, Allain P, Le Gall D, Roy A, Dinomais M, Besnard J. Associations between Adult Primary Brain Tumor Survivors' Behavioral Executive Functions, Health Related Quality of Life and their Caregivers' Health Related Quality : A cross-sectional study. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2023; 28:2860-2871. [PMID: 36919466 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2190596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
The present study focused on adult primary brain tumor (PBT) survivors' caregivers. The main objective was to study associations between PBT survivors' health-related quality of life (HRQOL), their behavioral executive functions (EF) and their caregivers' HRQOL. Forty PBT survivors of PBT and 37 caregivers (mostly patient's spouses 81.08%; n = 30) participated in the study. PBT survivors completed a cancer related Quality of Life (QOL) questionnaire. Caregivers completed informant rated HRQOL and behavioral EF reports relating to PBT survivors and a self-rated HRQOL questionnaire relating to themselves. Correlational and multiple regression analyses were conducted. No associations were found between caregivers' physical HRQOL and PBT survivors' HRQOL nor behavioral EF. Analyses yielded several significant correlations between caregivers' mental HRQOL and variables pertaining to PBT survivors' HRQOL and behavioral EF. Multiple regression analyses showed that caregivers' mental HRQOL is predicted by PBT survivors' mental HRQOL, global cancer-related QOL scores and global behavioral EF scores. This study provides evidence suggesting that during the survivorship phase, at an average of 3.67 (SD = 2.31) years following treatment for a PBT, caregivers mental HRQOL is linked to PBT survivors' long-term effects. These findings shed some light regarding post-cancer care for both PBT survivors and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Cantisano
- Centre d'Etudes en Psychopathologie et Psychologie de la Santé (EA 7411), University of Toulouse Jean Jaurès, Toulouse, France
| | - Philippe Menei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Angers University Hospital, Angers, France
| | - Vincent Roualdes
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Romuald Seizeur
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brest Regional University Hospital, Brest, France
| | - Philippe Allain
- Department of Neurology, Angers University Hospital, Angers, France
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Pays de la Loire (EA 4638), University of Angers, Angers, France
| | - Didier Le Gall
- Department of Neurology, Angers University Hospital, Angers, France
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Pays de la Loire (EA 4638), University of Angers, Angers, France
| | - Arnaud Roy
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Pays de la Loire (EA 4638), University of Angers, Angers, France
- Centre Référent des Troubles d'Apprentissage et Centre de Compétence Nantais de Neurofibromatose, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Mickaël Dinomais
- Department of Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Angers University Hospital, Angers, France
| | - Jérémy Besnard
- Laboratoire de Psychologie des Pays de la Loire (EA 4638), University of Angers, Angers, France
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Forst DA, Rhee JY, Mesa MM, Podgurski AF, Strander SM, Datta S, Kaslow-Zieve E, Horick NK, Greer JA, El-Jawahri A, Sannes TS, Temel JS, Jacobs J. Study protocol for NeuroCARE: a randomised controlled trial of a psychological intervention for caregivers of patients with primary malignant brain tumours. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069410. [PMID: 37678946 PMCID: PMC10496674 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069410] [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: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Caregivers of patients with primary malignant brain tumours experience substantial psychological distress while caring for someone with a progressive, life-limiting neurological illness. However, there are few interventions aimed at addressing the psychosocial needs of this population. We developed and are testing a population-specific, evidence-based, telehealth intervention (NeuroCARE) to reduce anxiety symptoms and improve psychosocial functioning in this caregiver population. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study is a non-blinded, randomised controlled trial of a psychological intervention for caregivers of patients with primary malignant brain tumours receiving care at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center or Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. We will enrol 120 caregivers who screen positive for heightened anxiety. Participants will be randomised 1:1 to the NeuroCARE intervention or a usual care control condition. Caregivers assigned to NeuroCARE will complete six individual telehealth sessions with a trained behavioural health specialist over 12 weeks. Caregivers randomised to the control condition will receive usual care, including possible referral to social work or other appropriate resources. Participants will complete self-report questionnaires at baseline and 11 weeks and 16 weeks postrandomisation. The primary outcome is anxiety symptoms at 11 weeks among NeuroCARE participants, compared with usual care. Secondary outcomes include caregiver-reported depressive symptoms, quality of life, caregiver burden, caregiving self-efficacy, perceived coping skills and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. We also will explore potential mediators of the NeuroCARE effect on caregiver anxiety symptoms. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study is funded by a Career Development Award from Conquer Cancer, the American Society of Clinical Oncology Foundation (award number 2019CDA-7743456038) and approved by the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center Institutional Review Board (Protocol #19-250 V.10.1). The study will be reported in accordance with the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement for non-pharmacological trials. Results will be presented at scientific meetings and in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04109209.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Anne Forst
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John Y Rhee
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michelle Marie Mesa
- Cancer Outcomes Research and Education Program, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alyx F Podgurski
- Cancer Outcomes Research and Education Program, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sumita Madhok Strander
- Cancer Outcomes Research and Education Program, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shibani Datta
- Cancer Outcomes Research and Education Program, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emilia Kaslow-Zieve
- Cancer Outcomes Research and Education Program, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nora K Horick
- Biostatistics Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joseph A Greer
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Areej El-Jawahri
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Timothy S Sannes
- Adult Psychosocial Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer S Temel
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jamie Jacobs
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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6
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Kroll JL, Jones M, Chen AB, Yang CC, Carmack CL, Cohen L, Bruera E, Milbury K. End-of-Life Care, Symptom Burden, and Quality of Life in Couples Facing Stage IV Lung Cancer: The Role of Patient and Spousal Psychospirituality and Discussions Around Fear of Death and Disease Progression. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:690-696. [PMID: 36856536 PMCID: PMC10150712 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2022.0376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: As patients live longer with stage IV nonsmall cell lung cancer, correlates of end-of-life (EOL) care and experience are increasingly relevant. Methods: We, therefore, prospectively examined associations among psychospirituality (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Spiritual Well-Being), discussions around fear of death and disease progression, and hospital-based EOL care in patients and caregivers. Patients additionally reported symptom burden (MD Anderson Symptom Inventory-Lung Cancer total) and quality of life (QOL) (quality-of-life at EOL). Results: Of the baseline patients (n = 75), 32% were alive at time of the analyses (mean = 4.6 years postbaseline). Deceased patients (n = 51) were middle aged (mean = 65.3 years) and non-Hispanic White (81%). Caregiver spiritual well-being (r = 0.34, p = 0.02) and depression (r = -0.31, p = 0.03) were associated with EOL care metrics. Patients who "held back" more of their fear of death or disease progression experienced greater symptom burden (r = 0.41, p < 0.001) and poorer QOL (r = -0.44, p < 0.001). Conclusion: For couples facing prolonged metastatic disease, psychospirituality is highly relevant to EOL care with potential sequelae of withholding one's fear regarding death or disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliet L. Kroll
- Department of Behavioral Science, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Morgan Jones
- Department of Behavioral Science, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Aileen B. Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chunyi Claire Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Cindy L. Carmack
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Lorenzo Cohen
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kathrin Milbury
- Department of Behavioral Science, Rehabilitation, and Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Ejem D, Stockdill M, Edwards R, Dionne-Odom JN, Taylor R, Baehr W, Nabors LB, Bakitas M, Warren P. “It's Not Just the Seizures”: Brain Tumor Caregivers’ Experiences and Educational Needs in Out-of-Hospital Seizure Management. J Palliat Care 2023:8258597231165898. [PMID: 36972511 DOI: 10.1177/08258597231165898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Family caregivers (FCGs) of persons with primary brain tumors (PBTs) report high levels of distress related to concerns about out-of-hospital seizures. This study aims to explore their experiences and needs with seizure management. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were held with 15 FCGs of persons with PBTs, both those who have and those who have not experienced a seizure, to elicit their concerns about out-of-hospital seizure management and related information needs. A qualitative descriptive study using thematic analysis was conducted based on interview data. Results: Three primary themes were identified relative to FCG experiences and needs related to care of PBTs patients, especially seizure management: (1) FCGs’ experiences with caring for persons with PBTs; (2) FCGs’ educational needs for seizure preparation and resources; and (3) FCGs’ desired type of educational resources and information about seizures. Often FCGs were reported being fearful of seizures and nearly all expressed difficulty knowing when to call emergency services. FCGs equally desired written and online resources, and most preferred graphics or videos detailing seizures. Most FCGs thought that seizure-related training should come after rather than at the time of PBTs diagnosis. FCGs of patients who have not experienced seizures were significantly less prepared to manage seizures than those with a prior seizure. Conclusions: Recognizing and managing out-of-hospital seizures can be a difficult and distressing task for FCGs of patients with PBTs and seizure-related resources are needed. Our results suggest that FCGs of care recipients with PBTs need early supportive interventions to provide self-care strategies and problem-solving skills to manage their roles as caregivers. Interventions should include educational components to assist them in understanding the best mechanisms to maintain a safe environment for their care recipients, and those that deepen knowledge about when to contact EMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Ejem
- School of Nursing, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Macy Stockdill
- School of Nursing, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rebecca Edwards
- School of Nursing, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Richard Taylor
- School of Nursing, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Walter Baehr
- Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Care, School of Medicine, The University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - L Burt Nabors
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, The University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Marie Bakitas
- School of Nursing, 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Paula Warren
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, The University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA
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8
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Miser JS, Shia BC, Kao YW, Liu YL, Chen SY, Ho WL. The Health Care Utilization and Medical Costs in Long-Term Follow-Up of Children Diagnosed With Leukemia, Solid Tumor, or Brain Tumor: Population-Based Study Using the National Health Insurance Claims Data. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e42350. [PMID: 36862495 PMCID: PMC10020904 DOI: 10.2196/42350] [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: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood cancer survivors are at a high risk of medical consequences of their disease and treatment. There is growing information about the long-term health issues of childhood cancer survivors; however, there are very few studies describing the health care utilization and costs for this unique population. Understanding their utilization of health care services and costs will provide the basis for developing strategies to better serve these individuals and potentially reduce the cost. OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine the utilization of health services and costs for long-term survivors of childhood cancer in Taiwan. METHODS This is a nationwide, population-based, retrospective case-control study. We analyzed the claims data of the National Health Insurance that covers 99% of the Taiwanese population of 25.68 million. A total of 33,105 children had survived for at least 5 years after the first appearance of a diagnostic code of cancer or a benign brain tumor before the age of 18 years from 2000 to 2010 with follow-up to 2015. An age- and gender-matched control group of 64,754 individuals with no cancer was randomly selected for comparison. Utilization was compared between the cancer and no cancer groups by χ2 test. The annual medical expense was compared by the Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis rank-sum test. RESULTS At a median follow-up of 7 years, childhood cancer survivors utilized a significantly higher proportion of medical center, regional hospital, inpatient, and emergency services in contrast to no cancer individuals: 57.92% (19,174/33,105) versus 44.51% (28,825/64,754), 90.66% (30,014/33,105) versus 85.70% (55,493/64,754), 27.19% (9000/33,105) versus 20.31% (13,152/64,754), and 65.26% (21,604/33,105) versus 59.36% (38,441/64,754), respectively (all P<.001). The annual total expense (median, interquartile range) of childhood cancer survivors was significantly higher than that of the comparison group (US $285.56, US $161.78-US $535.80 per year vs US $203.90, US $118.98-US $347.55 per year; P<.001). Survivors with female gender, diagnosis before the age of 3 years, and diagnosis of brain cancer or a benign brain tumor had significantly higher annual outpatient expenses (all P<.001). Moreover, the analysis of outpatient medication costs showed that hormonal and neurological medications comprised the 2 largest costs in brain cancer and benign brain tumor survivors. CONCLUSIONS Survivors of childhood cancer and a benign brain tumor had higher utilization of advanced health resources and higher costs of care. The design of the initial treatment plan minimizing long-term consequences, early intervention strategies, and survivorship programs have the potential to mitigate costs of late effects due to childhood cancer and its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S Miser
- Cancer Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Taipei Cancer Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, United States
| | - Ben-Chang Shia
- Graduate Institute of Business Administration, College of Management, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Artificial Intelligence Development Center, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Wei Kao
- Artificial Intelligence Development Center, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Department of Applied Statistics and Information Science, Ming Chuan University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Lin Liu
- Taipei Cancer Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Taipei Medical University Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Yen Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, Shuang Ho Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Ling Ho
- Taipei Cancer Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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9
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Waller A, Hullick C, Sanson-Fisher R, Herrmann-Johns A. Optimal care of people with brain cancer in the emergency department: A cross-sectional survey of outpatient perceptions. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2023; 10:100194. [PMID: 36915388 PMCID: PMC10006536 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2023.100194] [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: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective People diagnosed with brain cancer commonly present to the emergency department (ED). There is uncertainty about essential components and processes of optimal care from the perspective of consumers, and few guidelines exist to inform practice. This study examined the perceptions of outpatients and their support persons regarding what constitutes optimal care for people with brain cancer presenting to the ED. Methods A cross sectional descriptive survey study was undertaken. Participants included adults attending hospital outpatient clinics (n = 181, 60% of eligible participants). Participants completed a survey assessing perceptions of optimal care for brain cancer patients presenting to emergency department and socio-demographic characteristics. Results The survey items endorsed as 'essential' by participants included that the emergency department team help patients: 'understand signs and symptoms to watch out for' (51%); 'understand the next steps in care and why' (48%); 'understand if their medical condition suggests it is likely they will die in hospital' (47%); 'ask patients if they have a substitute decision maker and want that person told they are in the emergency department' (44%); 'understand the purpose of tests and procedures' (41%). Conclusions Symptom management, effective communication and supported decision-making should be prioritised by ED teams. Further research to establish the views of those affected by brain cancer about essential care delivered in the ED setting, and to compare these views with the quality of care that is actually delivered, is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Waller
- Health Behaviour Research Collaborative, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Carolyn Hullick
- Emergency Department, Belmont Hospital, Hunter New England Local Health District, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Rob Sanson-Fisher
- Health Behaviour Research Collaborative, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Anne Herrmann-Johns
- Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Department for Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Professorship for Medical Sociology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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10
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Forst DA, Kaslow-Zieve ER, Hansen A, Mesa M, Landay SL, Quain KM, Sereno I, El-Jawahri A, Greer JA, Temel JS, Jacobs JM. Characterizing Distress and Identifying Modifiable Intervention Targets for Family Caregivers of Patients with Malignant Gliomas. J Palliat Med 2023; 26:17-27. [PMID: 35708587 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2021.0534] [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: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Individuals caring for patients with malignant gliomas experience high rates of anxiety; however, an in-depth understanding of their distress and evidence-based interventions to target their needs are lacking. Objective: We conducted semistructured interviews with caregivers with elevated anxiety to characterize their drivers of anxiety, identify modifiable intervention targets, and capture their preferences for a psychosocial intervention. Design: From 9/2017 to 3/2019, we conducted semistructured interviews with 21 caregivers of patients with malignant gliomas, at time points following the patient's diagnosis or within one to three months after the patient's death. Setting/Subjects: Eligible caregivers in the United States had clinically significant anxiety as measured by a Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety score >7. Measurements: Three independent coders employed thematic content analysis to analyze the qualitative data with NVivo 12, achieving high intercoder agreement (Kappa = 0.98). Results: On average, caregivers were 54.81 years old (SD = 10.85) with elevated anxiety (M = 10.90, SD = 3.25). We identified six themes in which caregivers described (1) coping through reassurance seeking or avoidance, (2) changes in their relationship with the patient, (3) challenges with social support, (4) vacillation between certainty and uncertainty regarding the future, (5) devaluation of self-care for the patients' needs, and (6) challenges communicating with the health care team. Caregivers were interested in an intervention soon after the patient's diagnosis, yet expressed concern about finding the time to participate. Conclusions: Emergent themes characterized the distress experienced by caregivers of patients with malignant gliomas and provided insight into their psychosocial intervention preferences. We identified evidence-based intervention components based on the modifiable factors arising from these themes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Forst
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Andrea Hansen
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michelle Mesa
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Kit M Quain
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Areej El-Jawahri
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joseph A Greer
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer S Temel
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jamie M Jacobs
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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11
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Milbury K, Whisenant M, Weathers S, Malliaha S, Snyder S, Jackson N, Li J, Li Y, Silva RF, Shih YT, Cohen L. Dyadic versus individual delivery of a yoga program for family caregivers of glioma patients undergoing radiotherapy: Results of a
3‐arm
randomized controlled trial. Cancer Med 2022; 12:7567-7579. [PMID: 36468605 PMCID: PMC10067051 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite their significant distress, supportive care interventions for caregivers of glioma patients are generally lacking. And, whether caregivers are more likely to benefit from interventions targeting patient-caregiver dyads or caregivers individually is unknown. This pilot randomized controlled trial compared the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a dyadic yoga (DY) versus an individual caregiver yoga (CY) intervention as a supportive care strategy for family caregivers. METHODS Patient-caregiver dyads were randomized to a DY, CY or usual care (UC) arm. DY and CY interventions were delivered over 15 sessions. Caregivers completed assessments of their depressive symptoms, quality of life (QOL), and caregiving reactions at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks, and a subset completed qualitative interviews at 12 weeks. RESULTS With a consent rate of 63%, 67 dyads were randomized. Attendance in the DY was higher than in the CY group (session means, DY = 12.23, CY = 9.00; p = 0.06). Caregivers (79% female; 78% non-Hispanic White; mean age, 53 years) reported significantly more subjective benefit in the CY arm than in the DY arm (d = 2.1; p < .01), which was consistent with the qualitative assessment. There were medium effect sizes for improved mental QOL (d = 0.46) and financial burden (d = 0.53) in favor of the CY over the UC group. Caregivers in the CY group reported more caregiving esteem (d = 0.56) and less health decline (d = 0.60) than those in the DY group. CONCLUSION Individual rather than dyadic delivery may be a superior supportive care approach for this vulnerable caregiver population. A larger, adequately powered efficacy trial is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Milbury
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
| | - Meagan Whisenant
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Cizik School of Nursing Houston Texas USA
| | | | - Smitha Malliaha
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
| | - Stella Snyder
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
| | - Natalie Jackson
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Cizik School of Nursing Houston Texas USA
| | - Jing Li
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
| | - Yisheng Li
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
| | | | | | - Lorenzo Cohen
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Houston Texas USA
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12
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Jones D, Pinkham MB, Wallen MP, Hart NH, Joseph R, Strodl E, Ownsworth T, Beesley V, Crichton M, Chan RJ. Benefits of supportive strategies for carers of people with high-grade glioma: a systematic review : Strategies for addressing the needs of high-grade glioma carers. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:10359-10378. [PMID: 36282336 PMCID: PMC9715523 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07419-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To systematically review and examine current evidence for the carer-reported benefits of supportive care strategies for carers of adults with high-grade glioma (HGG). METHODS Four databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed, PsycINFO) were searched for articles published between January 2005 and April 2022 that assessed strategies for addressing the supportive care needs of carers of adults with HGG (WHO grade 3-4). Study selection and critical appraisal were conducted independently by three authors (DJ/MC, 2021; DJ/RJ 2022). Data extraction was conducted by one author (DJ) and checked by a second author (RJ). Results were synthesised narratively. RESULTS Twenty-one studies involving 1377 caregivers were included, targeting the carer directly (n = 10), the patient-carer dyad (n = 3), or focused on people with HGG + / - their carers (n = 8). A paucity of high-quality evidence exists for effective and comprehensive support directly addressing outcomes for carers of adults with HGG. Strategies that demonstrated some benefits included those that built carer knowledge or provided emotional support, delivered by health professionals or through peer support. Supportive and early palliative care programmes have potential to reduce unmet carer needs while providing ongoing carer support. CONCLUSION Strategies incorporating an educational component, emotional support, and a regular needs assessment with corresponding tailored support are most valued by carers. Future practice development research should adopt a value-based approach and exceed evaluation of efficacy outcomes to incorporate evaluation of the experience of patients, carers, and staff, as well as costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Jones
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA, 5042, Australia
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Mark B Pinkham
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Matthew P Wallen
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA, 5042, Australia
- School of Science, Psychology and Sport, Federation University Australia, Ballarat, VIC, Australia
| | - Nicolas H Hart
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA, 5042, Australia
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Ria Joseph
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA, 5042, Australia
| | - Esben Strodl
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Tamara Ownsworth
- School of Applied Psychology & The Hopkins Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Vanessa Beesley
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Supportive Care in Cancer Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Megan Crichton
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Bond University Nutrition and Dietetics Research Group, Bond University, Robina, QLD, Australia
| | - Raymond J Chan
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA, 5042, Australia.
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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13
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Figuracion KCF, Halasz LM, Lam NY, Goldberg M, Stuckey J, Failor RA, Knowles LM, Artherholt S, Chou B, Francis CE, Knight K, Kaur M, Sadak T, McGranahan T. Surveillance of long-term complications after treatment of adult brain tumor survivors-review and evidence-based recommendations. Neurooncol Pract 2022; 9:475-486. [PMID: 36388419 PMCID: PMC9665061 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npac053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2024] Open
Abstract
As a result of treatment and diagnosis, adults with primary or metastatic brain tumors experience comorbidities that impacts their health and well-being. The Children's Oncology Group has guideline recommendations for childhood survivors of brain tumors; however, guidelines for monitoring long-term sequela among adult brain tumor survivors are lacking. The purpose of this review is to present the screening recommendations for the long-term complications after brain tumor treatment from a multidisciplinary panel of healthcare professionals. Chronic complications identified include cognitive dysfunction, vasculopathy, endocrinopathy, ophthalmic, ototoxicity, physical disability, sleep disturbance, mood disorder, unemployment, financial toxicity, and secondary malignancy. We invited specialists across disciplines to perform a literature search and provide expert recommendations for surveillance for long-term complications for adult brain tumor survivors. The Brain Tumor Center Survivorship Committee recommends routine screening using laboratory testing, subjective assessment of symptoms, and objective evaluations to appropriately monitor the complications of brain tumor treatments. Effective monitoring and treatment should involve collaboration with primary care providers and may require referral to other specialties and support services to provide patient-centered care during neuro-oncology survivorship. Further research is necessary to document the incidence and prevalence of medical complications as well as evaluate the efficacy of screening and neuro-oncology survivorship programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Cristie F Figuracion
- ITHS TL1 Training Program University of Washington School of Nursing, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
- Alvord Brain Tumor Center, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Lia M Halasz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Ny-Ying Lam
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Myron Goldberg
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Joe Stuckey
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, 98105 University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Richard A Failor
- Department of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, 98105, USA
| | - Lindsey M Knowles
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Samantha Artherholt
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Brian Chou
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Courtney E Francis
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Kristin Knight
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA
| | - Maninder Kaur
- Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, California, USA
| | - Tatiana Sadak
- Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Informatics, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
| | - Tresa McGranahan
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
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14
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Boele F, Hertler C, Dirven L, Piil K, Sherwood P. Family caregiver constructs and outcome measures in neuro-oncology: A systematic review. Neurooncol Pract 2022; 9:465-474. [DOI: 10.1093/nop/npac058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
As a first step to reach consensus on the key constructs and outcomes in neuro-oncology caregiver research, we performed a systematic review to evaluate the constructs that are being evaluated in research studies and how these have been assessed.
Methods
All peer-reviewed publications with primary data reporting on outcomes of family caregivers of adult primary brain tumor patients were eligible. Electronic databases PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Emcare, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO were searched up to September 2021. Using Covidence, title and abstract screening, full-text review, and data extraction were done by two researchers independently, with a third guiding consensus. Constructs as reported in each study, and how these were assessed were the primary result.
Results
Searches yielded 1090 unique records, with 213 remaining after title/abstract screening. Of these, 157 publications met inclusion criteria, comprising 120 unique studies. These originated from 18 countries and were published between 1996 and 2022. Most were observational (75%) cross-sectional (61%) studies, reporting on quantitative methods (62%). Twenty-seven different constructs were assessed and mapped along the Caregiver Health Model (CGHM) categories, namely, caregiver health, needs, tasks, beliefs and attitudes, and environment. Seventeen questionnaires were used >2 times to measure the same construct, with the vast majority of questionnaires only used across one or two studies.
Conclusions
Neuro-oncology caregiving research is a field gaining traction, but lags behind in clear definition of key constructs, and consistency in assessment of these constructs. Developing consensus or guidance will improve comparability of studies, meta-analyses, and advance the science more quickly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florien Boele
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St James’s, St James’s University Hospital, University of Leeds , Leeds , UK
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds , Leeds , UK
| | - Caroline Hertler
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Competence Center Palliative Care, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich , Zurich , Switzerland
| | - Linda Dirven
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center , Leiden , The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center , The Hague , The Netherlands
| | - Karin Piil
- Department of Oncology, Centre for Cancer and Organ Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University , Aarhus , Denmark
| | - Paula Sherwood
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania , USA
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15
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Boele FW, Weimer JM, Marsland AL, Armstrong TS, Given CW, Drappatz J, Donovan HS, Sherwood PR. The effects of SmartCare © on neuro-oncology family caregivers' distress: a randomized controlled trial. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:2059-2068. [PMID: 34655326 PMCID: PMC10411320 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06555-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with primary malignant brain tumors have high symptom burden and commonly rely on family caregivers for practical and emotional support. This can lead to negative mental and physical consequences for caregivers. We investigated effectiveness of an 8-week nurse-led online needs-based support program (SmartCare©) with and without online self-guided cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression compared to enhanced care as usual (ECAU) on depressive symptoms, caregiving-specific distress, anxiety, mastery, and burden. METHODS Family caregivers scoring ≥ 6 on a depressive symptoms inventory were randomized to three groups: ECAU plus self-guided CBT and SmartCare©; ECAU plus SmartCare©; ECAU only. Primary outcomes (depressive symptoms; caregiving-specific distress) and secondary outcomes (anxiety, caregiver mastery, and caregiver burden) were assessed online. Intention to treat (ITT) and per protocol (PP) analyses of covariance corrected for baseline scores were performed for outcomes at 4 months. RESULTS In total, 120 family caregivers participated. Accrual and CBT engagement were lower than expected, therefore intervention groups were combined (n = 80) and compared to ECAU (n = 40). For depressive symptoms, no statistically significant group differences were found. Caregiving-specific distress decreased in the intervention group compared with ECAU (ITT: p = 0.01, partial ɳ2 = 0.08; PP: p = 0.02, partial ɳ2 = 0.08). A trend towards improvement in mastery for the intervention group compared with ECAU was identified (ITT: p = 0.08, partial ɳ2 = 0.04; PP: p = 0.07, partial ɳ2 = 0.05). CONCLUSIONS SmartCare©, with or without self-guided CBT, reduced caregiving-specific distress with a trend towards improving mastery. SmartCare© has the potential to improve the lives of families coping with a brain tumor diagnosis. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02058745; 10 February 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florien W Boele
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research At St James's, University of Leeds, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF, UK
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9NL, UK
| | - Jason M Weimer
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, 336 Victoria Bldg., 3500 Victoria St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Anna L Marsland
- School of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, 3490 O'Hara St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Terri S Armstrong
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Charles W Given
- College of Nursing C346 Life Sciences Bldg, Michigan State University, 1355 Bogue St East, Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Jan Drappatz
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 5115 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15232, USA
| | - Heidi S Donovan
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, 336 Victoria Bldg., 3500 Victoria St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, 415 Victoria Building, 3500 Victoria St, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
| | - Paula R Sherwood
- School of Nursing, University of Pittsburgh, 336 Victoria Bldg., 3500 Victoria St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
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16
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Crooms RC, Johnson MO, Leeper H, Mehta A, McWhirter M, Sharma A. Easing the Journey-an Updated Review of Palliative Care for the Patient with High-Grade Glioma. Curr Oncol Rep 2022; 24:501-515. [PMID: 35192120 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-022-01210-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW High-grade gliomas (HGG) are rare brain tumors that cause disproportionate suffering and mortality. Palliative care, whose aim is to relieve the symptoms and stressors of serious illness, may benefit patients with HGG and their families. In this review, we summarize the extant literature and provide recommendations for addressing the symptom management and communication needs of brain tumor patients and their caregivers at key points in the illness trajectory: initial diagnosis; during upfront treatment; disease recurrence; end-of-life period; and after death during bereavement. RECENT FINDINGS Patients with HGG experience highly intrusive symptoms, cognitive and functional decline, and emotional and existential distress throughout the disease course. The caregiver burden is also substantial during the patient's illness and after death. There is limited evidence to guide the palliative management of these issues. Palliative care is likely to benefit patients with HGG, yet further research is needed to optimize the delivery of palliative care in neuro-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita C Crooms
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1468 Madison Ave, 1052, NY, 10029, New York, USA.,Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Margaret O Johnson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University Medical Center, Trent Drive 047 Baker House, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.,The Preston Robert Tirsch Brain Tumor Center, Duke University Medical Center, Trent Drive 047 Baker House, NC, 27710, Durham, USA
| | - Heather Leeper
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, 9030 Old Georgetown Rd, Bloch Bldg 82, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Ambereen Mehta
- Palliative Care Program, Division of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, 21224, MD, USA.,Division of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, 21224, MD, USA
| | - Michelle McWhirter
- Palliative Care Program, Division of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, 21224, MD, USA.,Department of Social Work, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, 21224, MD, USA
| | - Akanksha Sharma
- Department of Translational Neurosciences, Pacific Neuroscience Institute/Saint John's Cancer Institute, 2200 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA, 90404, USA.
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17
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Reblin M, McCormick R, Mansfield KJ, Wawrzynski SE, Ketcher D, Tennant KE, Guo JW, Jones EC, Cloyes KG. Feasibility, usability, and acceptability of personalized web-based assessment of social network and daily social support interactions over time. J Cancer Surviv 2022; 16:904-912. [PMID: 35064551 PMCID: PMC8782690 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-021-01083-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of implementing a web-based method for collecting social network and longitudinal daily interaction data from cancer survivors and their caregivers. Methods Young adult and sexual/gender minority cancer survivors and their informal caregivers were recruited as dyads. Feasibility data, including enrollment and retention, were captured. Individual social network data were collected at baseline and used to individualize daily electronically delivered surveys assessing characteristics of daily social support-related interactions with identified network members for 14 days. Follow-up questionnaires assessing usability and exit interviews assessing acceptability were completed at the end of the 2-week study period. Results Fourteen survivor-caregiver dyads (28 individual participants) were enrolled and completed all baseline and final measures. Participants completed 85.2% of daily diary reports and reported excellent usability ratings. Acceptability was also high. In qualitative interviews, participants reported enjoying the daily reflection on social support facilitated by our methods. Conclusions Our method has been shown to be highly feasible, usable, and acceptable. Implications for Cancer Survivors Developing better data collection tools can lead to better understanding of the social support cancer survivors and their caregivers receive, and how the social network structure facilitates or creates barriers to accessing this support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Reblin
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
- College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA.
| | - Rachael McCormick
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Sarah E Wawrzynski
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Dana Ketcher
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Jia-Wen Guo
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Eric C Jones
- School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston, TX, USA
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18
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The Added Value of Family Caregivers' Level of Mastery in Predicting Survival of Glioblastoma Patients: A Validation Study. Cancer Nurs 2022; 45:363-368. [PMID: 34608049 PMCID: PMC8964825 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000001027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor. Patients commonly rely on family caregivers for physical and emotional support. We previously demonstrated that caregiver mastery measured shortly after diagnosis was predictive of GBM patient survival, corrected for known predictors of survival (n = 88). OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to verify the contribution of caregiver mastery and investigate the added value of mastery over other predictors to predict 15-month survival. METHODS Data collected for a longitudinal study (NCT02058745) were used. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed for models with known clinical predictors (patient age, Karnofsky Performance Status, type of surgery, O6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase promotor methylation status), with and without adding caregiver mastery to predict mortality. The added value of each model in discriminating between patients with the lowest and highest chances of survival at 15 months was investigated through Harrell's concordance index. RESULTS In total, 41 caregiver-patient dyads were included. When evaluating solely clinical predictors, Karnofsky Performance Status and patient age were significant predictors of mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.974; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.949-1.000; and HR, 1.045; 95% CI, 1.002-1.091, respectively). Adding caregiver mastery, these clinical predictors remained statistically significant, and mastery showed an HR of 0.843 (95% CI, 0.755-0.940). The discriminative value improved from C = 0.641 (model with known clinical predictors) to C = 0.778 (model with mastery), indicating the latter is superior. CONCLUSIONS We confirm that caregiver mastery is associated with GBM patient survival. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Incorporating support and guidance for caregivers into standard care could lead to benefits for caregiver well-being and patient outcomes.
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19
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Correlation between preoperative psychological personality traits of glioma patients and psychological distress in their primary caregivers. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2022; 214:107144. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2022.107144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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20
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Addressing a critical need for caregiver support in neuro-oncology: development of a caregiver navigation intervention using eSNAP social resource visualization. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:5361-5370. [PMID: 35290512 PMCID: PMC8922391 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-06977-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Informal caregivers are key to oncology care, but often have unmet needs, leading to poor psychological and physical health outcomes. Comprehensive, proactive caregiver support programs are needed. We describe the development of a support intervention for caregivers of persons with brain tumors. The intervention uses a caregiver navigator to help participants identify and capitalize on existing social support resources captured using a web-based tool (eSNAP) and connects participants to existing formal services. We describe the iterative development process of the manualized intervention with particular focus on the caregiver navigator sessions. The process included review of the literature and published patient navigation programs, expert and stakeholder review, and study team member review. Quantitative and qualitative data were captured from the first 15 participants randomized to receive the intervention, enrolled from February 2020 to December 2020. Four participants dropped from the study, 9 completed at least 7 modules, and 8 participants completed all 8. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected primarily from those who completed the intervention; data suggest caregivers were satisfied with the intervention and found it helpful. Our intervention is one of the first theory-based caregiver support interventions to include caregiver navigation in neuro-oncology. We use best-practice guidelines for design, including extensive stakeholder feedback. COVID-19 may have impacted recruitment and participation, but some preliminary data suggest that those able to engage with the intervention find it helpful. Data collection is ongoing in a larger trial. If effective, caregiver navigation could be a model for future interventions to ensure caregiver support.
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21
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What matters to persons living with brain tumors and their informal caregivers? An interview study of qualities in interpersonal relations. Soc Sci Med 2021; 292:114575. [PMID: 34814025 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain tumor is a severe cancer that may make the person with the illness and their informal caregivers dependent on support in self-care. Social network mapping is a method to assess an individual's social relations and resources, which may help to identify high-quality relations and potential sources of support. Yet, which relations matter for individuals living with brain tumors and their informal caregivers and how social network mapping could be used in self-care need further investigation. AIM To explore how persons living with brain tumors and informal caregivers perceive the potential usefulness of a social network-mapping tool in their self-care and to describe the qualities in the interpersonal relations that they map. METHODS Seven persons living with brain tumors and 12 informal caregivers (whereof six bereaved) participated in in-depth interviews and tested a social network-mapping tool developed by an informal caregiver (CareMaps). Data were analyzed inductively using thematic analysis. The COREQ checklist was used for reporting. FINDINGS Participants expressed positive opinions about the CareMaps tool but raised some questions regarding its design, how to use it in their self-care, and the optimal timing of introducing the tool. Two themes reflecting qualities in relations were found: self-care supportive relations during which daily management of the brain tumor is in focus and identity-preserving relations that allow individuals to disconnect from their brain tumor experiences. Both types of relations were described as important, were found in different contexts (e.g., social life, work life, and healthcare), and emphasized contrasting qualities. CONCLUSION The CareMaps tool was helpful in elucidating qualities in interpersonal relations that contribute to individuals' self-care. Future research should investigate how social network-mapping tools that capture quality in social relations should be designed and used to support individuals in their self-care.
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22
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Reblin M, Ketcher D, McCormick R, Barrios-Monroy V, Sutton SK, Zebrack B, Wells KJ, Sahebjam S, Forsyth P, Byrne MM. A randomized wait-list controlled trial of a social support intervention for caregivers of patients with primary malignant brain tumor. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:360. [PMID: 33865382 PMCID: PMC8052543 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06372-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Informal family caregivers constitute an important and increasingly demanding role in the cancer healthcare system. This is especially true for caregivers of patients with primary malignant brain tumors based on the rapid progression of disease, including physical and cognitive debilitation. Informal social network resources such as friends and family can provide social support to caregivers, which lowers caregiver burden and improves overall quality of life. However, barriers to obtaining needed social support exist for caregivers. To address this need, our team developed and is assessing a multi-component caregiver support intervention that uses a blend of technology and personal contact to improve caregiver social support. METHODS We are currently conducting a prospective, longitudinal 2-group randomized controlled trial which compares caregivers who receive the intervention to a wait-list control group. Only caregivers directly receive the intervention, but the patient-caregiver dyads are enrolled so we can assess outcomes in both. The 8-week intervention consists of two components: (1) The electronic Social Network Assessment Program, a web-based tool to visualize existing social support resources and provide a tailored list of additional resources; and (2) Caregiver Navigation, including weekly phone sessions with a Caregiver Navigator to address caregiver social support needs. Outcomes are assessed by questionnaires completed by the caregiver (baseline, 4-week, 8-week) and the cancer patient (baseline, and 8-week). At 8 weeks, caregivers in the wait-list condition may opt into the intervention. Our primary outcome is caregiver well-being; we also explore patient well-being and caregiver and patient health care utilization. DISCUSSION This protocol describes a study testing a novel social support intervention that pairs a web-based social network visualization tool and resource list (eSNAP) with personalized caregiver navigation. This intervention is responsive to a family-centered model of care and calls for clinical and research priorities focused on informal caregiving research. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov , Registration number: NCT04268979 ; Date of registration: February 10, 2020, retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Reblin
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Dr, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA.
| | - Dana Ketcher
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Dr, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Rachael McCormick
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Dr, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Veronica Barrios-Monroy
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Dr, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Steven K Sutton
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Bradley Zebrack
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kristen J Wells
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
- SDSU/UC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Solmaz Sahebjam
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Peter Forsyth
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Margaret M Byrne
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Dr, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
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Boyd LAP, Waller AE, Hill D, Sanson-Fisher RW. Psychosocial well-being of brain cancer patients and support persons: A mapping review of study types over time. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2021; 30:e13446. [PMID: 33772936 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13446] [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: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This review examined the: (1) number of publications exploring psychosocial outcomes of adults with brain cancer and/or support persons between 1999 and 2019 and whether there has been a change in the type of research over time; and (2) proportion of intervention studies meeting Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care (EPOC) research design criteria. METHODS Embase, The Cochrane Library, Medline and PsycINFO databases were electronically searched January 1999 to December 2019. Articles were examined against inclusion/exclusion criteria and coded into measurement, descriptive or intervention categories. Intervention studies were assessed against the EPOC design criteria. RESULTS 220 eligible publications were identified. The number of total publications significantly increased by an average of 1 each year (95%CI = 0.7-1.3; p < 0.001). There was no significant change in the proportion of publications by study type across three time periods. Descriptive research represented the majority within each time period. Of the 17 intervention studies, only 7(41%) met EPOC design criteria. CONCLUSIONS Published literature on brain cancer psychosocial outcomes has increased significantly. However, descriptive research dominates research output. To increase high-level knowledge that can guide psychosocial care of people with brain cancer, there is a need to undertake methodologically rigorous intervention trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy A P Boyd
- Health Behaviour Research Collaborative, Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, NSW, Australia.,Department of General Practice and Centre for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy E Waller
- Health Behaviour Research Collaborative, Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, NSW, Australia
| | - David Hill
- Health Behaviour Research Collaborative, Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,School of Population and Global Health and School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rob W Sanson-Fisher
- Health Behaviour Research Collaborative, Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, NSW, Australia
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24
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Brain cancer patient and support persons' experiences of psychosocial care: a mapping of research outputs. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:5559-5569. [PMID: 33710411 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06071-6] [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: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with brain cancer and their support persons (SPs) are critical sources of information on the components of care that contribute to psychosocial outcomes. AIMS To determine the proportion of studies that examined (1) at least one of 14 nominated components of psychosocial cancer care and (2) more than one component of care. METHODS Medline, The Cochrane Library, PsycINFO and Embase were electronically searched for publications from January 1999 to December 2019. Publications that met the inclusion criteria were coded according to the number and type of psychosocial care components assessed from 14 listed components, and whether patient and/or SPs' views about care were elicited. RESULTS Of the 113 included publications, 61 publications included patient-reported data only (54%), 27 included both patient and SP-reported data (24%) and 25 included SP-reported data only (22%). Most assessed a single component of care (77% of patient-reported and 71% of SP-reported). No publications assessed all 14 components. The "Psychosocial" component was the most frequently assessed component of care for patient-reported (n = 80/88, 91%) and SP-reported publications (n = 46/52, 88%). CONCLUSIONS Publications reporting on psychosocial care in brain cancer present a relatively narrow view of patient and support person experiences. The inclusion of both patient and support person perspectives and the assessment of multiple components of care are required in future research to optimize psychosocial outcomes in brain cancer.
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25
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Forst DA. Palliative and Supportive Care in Neuro-oncology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 26:1673-1685. [PMID: 33273177 DOI: 10.1212/con.0000000000000940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article reviews the supportive care needs of patients with primary brain tumors and their caregivers, outlines the management of selected common symptoms of patients with brain tumors, and describes challenges and opportunities in providing palliative care for this population. RECENT FINDINGS Patients with primary malignant brain tumors generally have a poor prognosis and experience progressive neurologic decline and significant physical and psychological symptoms. Management of these symptoms, including fatigue, mood disorders, and the manifestations of cerebral edema, can be challenging. Caregivers for these patients have high rates of psychological distress and report significant caregiving burden. Although the benefit of early palliative care for patients with other advanced solid tumors is well established, our understanding of the role of palliative care in neuro-oncology is incomplete, and thus palliative care and hospice services remain underutilized. SUMMARY Patients with brain tumors and their caregivers have significant supportive care needs, which often differ from the needs of patients with cancers outside of the nervous system. Clinicians face challenges associated with managing patients' symptoms and adequately facilitating prognostic understanding and decision making. Palliative care and hospice services may offer important benefits for this population.
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26
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Chen C, Wang H, Zhang L, Wang K, Jiang L, Li S, Xiang W, Song L, Hu S, Yang C, Zhou J. Clinical study of preoperative psychological distress and its related factors in the primary caregivers of patients with glioma. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2020; 200:106364. [PMID: 33348302 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2020.106364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the preoperative psychological distress in the primary caregivers of glioma patients and its influencing factors and to determine the relationship between preoperative psychological states of glioma patients and their caregivers. METHODS Using a mixed methods design, the caregivers of patients with malignant glioma were interviewed and completed questionnaires about anxiety/depression and family function during preoperative period. RESULTS Caregivers of glioma patients had different types of psychological distress before surgery. A total of 46 caregivers (36.5 %) had preoperative psychological depression or anxiety symptom; 30 caregivers (23.8 %) had depression symptoms, 39 caregivers (31.0 %) had anxiety symptoms, and 23 (18.3 %) had both preoperative anxiety and depression symptoms. Female gender was an influential factor for both preoperative depression and anxiety symptoms in caregivers, surgical information was a risk factor for caregivers' preoperative depression symptoms and residence was a risk factor for caregivers' preoperative anxiety symptoms. The preoperative psychological states of patients was positively correlated with the preoperative anxiety and depression symptoms of caregivers. CONCLUSION The rural female caregivers are more likely to experience psychological distress before surgery, and the preoperative psychological states of patients was positively correlated with the psychological distress in caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyi Chen
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China; Department of Anorectal, The Affiliated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Southwest Medical University, Chunhui Road 16#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China.
| | - Haorun Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China; Neurosurgery Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China
| | - Liying Zhang
- School of Nursing, Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China
| | - Ke Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China; Neurosurgery Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China
| | - Lin Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China; Neurosurgery Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China
| | - Shenjie Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China; Neurosurgery Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China
| | - Wei Xiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China; Neurosurgery Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China
| | - Li Song
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China; Neurosurgery Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China
| | - Shasha Hu
- Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China
| | - Changmei Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China; Neurosurgery Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China.
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China; Neurosurgery Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, Taiping Street 25#, Lu Zhou, 646000, China.
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27
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Salmi L, Lum HD, Hayden A, Reblin M, Otis-Green S, Venechuk G, Morris MA, Griff M, Kwan BM. Stakeholder engagement in research on quality of life and palliative care for brain tumors: a qualitative analysis of #BTSM and #HPM tweet chats. Neurooncol Pract 2020; 7:676-684. [PMID: 33304602 PMCID: PMC7716141 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npaa043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Research is needed to inform palliative care models that address the full spectrum of quality of life (QoL) needs for brain tumor patients and care partners. Stakeholder engagement in research can inform research priorities; engagement via social media can complement stakeholder panels. The purpose of this paper is to describe the use of Twitter to complement in-person stakeholder engagement, and report emergent themes from qualitative analysis of tweet chats on QoL needs and palliative care opportunities for brain tumor patients. Methods The Brain Cancer Quality of Life Collaborative engaged brain tumor (#BTSM) and palliative medicine (#HPM) stakeholder communities via Twitter using tweet chats. The #BTSM chat focused on defining and communicating about QoL among brain tumor patients. The #HPM chat discussed communication about palliative care for those facing neurological conditions. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify tweet chat themes. Results Analysis showed QoL for brain tumor patients and care partners includes psychosocial, physical, and cognitive concerns. Distressing concerns included behavioral changes, grief over loss of identity, changes in relationships, depression, and anxiety. Patients appreciated when providers discussed QoL early in treatment, and emphasized the need for care partner support. Communication about QoL and palliative care rely on relationships to meet evolving patient needs. Conclusions In addition to providing neurological and symptom management, specialized palliative care for brain tumor patients may address unmet patient and care partner psychosocial and informational needs. Stakeholder engagement using Twitter proved useful for informing research priorities and understanding stakeholder perspectives on QoL and palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liz Salmi
- Department of General Medicine and Primary Care, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hillary D Lum
- VA Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado.,Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Adam Hayden
- Philosophy, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Maija Reblin
- Department of Health Outcomes & Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | | | - Grace Venechuk
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Megan A Morris
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado.,Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Megan Griff
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Bethany M Kwan
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado.,Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
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28
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Milbury K, Weathers SP, Durrani S, Li Y, Whisenant M, Li J, Lim B, Weinberg JS, Kesler SR, Cohen L, Bruera E. Online Couple-Based Meditation Intervention for Patients With Primary or Metastatic Brain Tumors and Their Partners: Results of a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. J Pain Symptom Manage 2020; 59:1260-1267. [PMID: 32061834 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2020.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although patients with primary and metastatic brain tumors and their partners are at risk of experiencing high symptom burden, they are often excluded from psychosocial intervention studies. Thus, we sought to examine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a couple-based meditation (CBM) program targeting symptom and well-being outcomes. METHODS Couples completed baseline measures assessing symptom and well-being outcomes and were randomized to the CBM or a usual care control group. Couples in the CBM groups attended four weekly (60 minutes each) therapist-led sessions that were delivered via FaceTime (Apple Inc, Cupertino, CA). The CBM program focused on cultivating mindfulness, compassion, gratitude and purpose, and integrated emotional disclosure exercises. Both groups were reassessed six and 12 weeks after baseline. RESULTS We approached 60 eligible dyads, of which 37 (62%) consented, 35 (95%) were randomized, and 22 (63%) completed all assessments. Couples in the CBM group attended a mean of 3.33 sessions (SD 1.09). For patients, significant group differences in favor of the CBM group were found for cognitive (d = 1.05) and general disease symptoms (d = 0.93), and relationship well-being (d = 0.68) and compassion (d = 0.96). No significant group differences were revealed for partners. CONCLUSION It seems to be feasible, acceptable, and possibly efficacious to deliver a dyadic intervention via FaceTime to brain tumor couples. Although both patients and partners in the CBM group rated the intervention as beneficial, significant group differences with medium-to-large effect sizes were only found for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Milbury
- Department of Behavioral Science, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
| | - Shiao-Pei Weathers
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sania Durrani
- Department of Behavioral Science, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yisheng Li
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Meagan Whisenant
- Department of Symptom Research, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Bora Lim
- Department of Breast Medical Oncology, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Weinberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shelli R Kesler
- Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Lorenzo Cohen
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation & Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eduardo Bruera
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation & Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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29
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Understanding coping strategies of cancer caregivers to inform mindfulness-based interventions: A qualitative study. Eur J Integr Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2019.100936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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30
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Milbury K, Li J, Weathers SP, Shih T, Malliaha S, Li Y, Cohen L. A research protocol for a pilot, randomized controlled trial designed to examine the feasibility of a dyadic versus individual yoga program for family caregivers of glioma patients undergoing radiotherapy. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2019; 5:95. [PMID: 31367462 PMCID: PMC6657047 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-019-0479-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the diagnosis and treatment of a primary brain tumor present unique challenges to patients and their family caregivers, evidence-based supportive care interventions are generally lacking. The primary aim of this research protocol is to determine the feasibility of implementing a dyadic yoga (DY) versus a caregiver yoga (CY) intervention or a wait-list control (WLC) group using a randomized controlled trial design. METHODS Seventy-five glioma patients undergoing radiotherapy and their family caregivers are randomized to the DY, CY, or a WLC group. Patient-caregiver dyads in the DY group and caregivers in the CY group receive 15 sessions (45 min each) over the course of patients' standard radiotherapy (6 weeks). Patients and caregivers in all groups complete baseline assessments of symptoms, quality of life (QOL), and health utilization outcomes prior to randomization. Follow-up assessments are performed 6 weeks and then again 3 months later. The primary outcome is feasibility (i.e., ≥ 50% of eligible dyads consent, ≥ 70% of enrolled dyads complete all assessments, and ≥ 50% of all practice sessions are attended). We will also perform primarily descriptive analyses of the self-reported outcomes (e.g., fatigue, overall QOL) and explore potential intervention moderators (e.g., performance status) to inform a larger future trial. CONCLUSION This trial will provide important information regarding the feasibility of a dyadic versus a caregiver yoga intervention regarding symptom, QOL, and health utilization outcomes in glioma patients and their caregivers. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02481349.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Milbury
- Department of Behavioral Science, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1155 Pressler St, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Shiao-Pei Weathers
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Tina Shih
- Department of Health Services, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Smitha Malliaha
- Department of Behavioral Science, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1155 Pressler St, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Yisheng Li
- Department of Biostatics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
| | - Lorenzo Cohen
- Department of Palliative, Rehabilitation & Integrative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX USA
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31
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Boele FW, Rooney AG, Bulbeck H, Sherwood P. Interventions to help support caregivers of people with a brain or spinal cord tumour. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 7:CD012582. [PMID: 31264707 PMCID: PMC6604115 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012582.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis and treatment of a brain or spinal cord tumour can have a huge impact on the lives of patients and their families with family caregiving often resulting in considerable burden and distress. Meeting the support needs of family caregivers is critical to maintain their emotional and physical health. Although support for caregivers is becoming more widely available, large-scale implementation is hindered by a lack of high-quality evidence for its effectiveness in the neuro-oncology caregiver population. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness of supportive interventions at improving the well-being of caregivers of people with a brain or spinal cord tumour. To assess the effects of supportive interventions for caregivers in improving the physical and emotional well-being of people with a brain or spinal cord tumour and to evaluate the health economic benefits of supportive interventions for caregivers. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2018, Issue 7), MEDLINE via Ovid, and Embase via Ovid. We also handsearched relevant published conference abstracts (previous five years), publications in the two main journals in the field (previous year), searched for ongoing trials via ClinicalTrials.gov, and contacted research groups in the field. The initial search was in March 2017 with an update in August 2018 (handsearches completed in January 2019). SELECTION CRITERIA We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) where caregivers of neuro-oncology patients constituted more than 20% of the sample and which evaluated changes in caregiver well-being following any supportive intervention. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently selected studies and carried out risk of bias assessments. We aimed to extract data on the outcomes of psychological distress, burden, mastery, quality of patient-caregiver relationship, quality of life, and physical functioning. MAIN RESULTS In total, the search identified 2102 records, of which we reviewed 144 in full text. We included eight studies. Four interventions focused on patient-caregiver dyads and four were aimed specifically at the caregiver. Heterogeneity of populations and methodologies precluded meta-analysis. Risk of bias varied, and all studies included only small numbers of neuro-oncology caregivers (13 to 56 participants). There was some evidence for positive effects of caregiver support on psychological distress, mastery, and quality of life (low to very low certainty of evidence). No studies reported significant effects on caregiver burden or quality of patient-caregiver relationship (low to very low certainty of evidence). None of the studies assessed caregiver physical functioning. For secondary outcomes (patient emotional or physical well-being; health economic effects), we found very little to no evidence for the effectiveness of caregiver support. We identified five ongoing trials. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The eight small-scale studies included employed different methodologies across different populations, with low certainty of evidence overall. It is not currently possible to draw reliable conclusions regarding the effectiveness of supportive interventions aimed at improving neuro-oncology caregiver well-being. More high-quality research is needed on support for family caregivers of people diagnosed, and living, with a brain or spinal cord tumour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florien W Boele
- University of Leeds and Leeds Cancer CentreLeeds Institute of Health Sciences and Leeds Institute of Cancer and PathologyPOG, Level 3, Bexley WingSt James's Institute of OncologyLeedsUKLS9 7TF
| | - Alasdair G Rooney
- Edinburgh Centre for Neuro‐Oncology (ECNO)Department of Psychological MedicineWestern General HospitalCrewe Road SouthEdinburghScotlandUKEH4 2XU
| | - Helen Bulbeck
- brainstrustDirector of Services4 Yvery CourtCastle RoadCowesIsle of WightUKPO31 7QG
| | - Paula Sherwood
- University of PittsburghDepartment of Acute and Tertiary Care336 Victoria Building3500 Victoria StreetPittsburghMAUSA15261
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Abstract
Family caregivers are increasingly recognized as a vital part of the comprehensive treatment of cancer. Many caregivers, especially those caring for patients with primary malignant brain tumor (PMBT), report feeling overwhelmed by providing care. Social support can be protective for caregiving, but there is little research on the composition of social networks of caregivers. The research describes these social networks. Caregivers were recruited from a neuro-oncology clinic at an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in the United States from May to August 2017. Caregivers listed social network resources that they either have approached or could approach for help in six caregiving areas. Twenty-eight caregivers provided social network data. Most caregivers had at least some support in each category, with the most people in hands on and emotional support. Communication and financial support were less populated and were most likely to have no resources listed. Most resources were unique to one support category, but a smaller number of resources provided multiple types of support. Our data provide information for targeting interventions to address support needs in caregivers of patients with PMBT. These findings also represent the first time the compositions of the social networks of caregivers of patients with PMBT have been presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Ketcher
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffit Cancer Center , Tampa , FL , USA
| | - Maija Reblin
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffit Cancer Center , Tampa , FL , USA
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Nicklin E, Velikova G, Hulme C, Rodriguez Lopez R, Glaser A, Kwok-Williams M, Boele F. Long-term issues and supportive care needs of adolescent and young adult childhood brain tumour survivors and their caregivers: A systematic review. Psychooncology 2019; 28:477-487. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.4989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Nicklin
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. James's, Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
| | - Galina Velikova
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. James's, Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
| | - Claire Hulme
- Institute of Health Research; University of Exeter Medical School; Exeter UK
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
| | - Rocio Rodriguez Lopez
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
| | - Adam Glaser
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. James's, Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
- Leeds Cancer Centre; Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust; Leeds UK
| | | | - Florien Boele
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research at St. James's, Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
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Nursing Guide to Management of Major Symptoms in Patients with Malignant Glioma. Semin Oncol Nurs 2018; 34:513-527. [DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2018.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Reblin M, Ketcher D, Forsyth P, Mendivil E, Kane L, Pok J, Meyer M, Wu YP, Agutter J. Outcomes of an electronic social network intervention with neuro-oncology patient family caregivers. J Neurooncol 2018; 139:643-649. [PMID: 29808340 PMCID: PMC6126960 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-018-2909-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Informal family caregivers (FCG) are an integral and crucial human component in the cancer care continuum. However, research and interventions to help alleviate documented anxiety and burden on this group is lacking. To address the absence of effective interventions, we developed the electronic Support Network Assessment Program (eSNAP) which aims to automate the capture and visualization of social support, an important target for overall FCG support. This study seeks to describe the preliminary efficacy and outcomes of the eSNAP intervention. METHODS Forty FCGs were enrolled into a longitudinal, two-group randomized design to compare the eSNAP intervention in caregivers of patients with primary brain tumors against controls who did not receive the intervention. Participants were followed for six weeks with questionnaires to assess demographics, caregiver burden, anxiety, depression, and social support. Questionnaires given at baseline (T1) and then 3-weeks (T2), and 6-weeks (T3) post baseline questionnaire. RESULTS FCGs reported high caregiver burden and distress at baseline, with burden remaining stable over the course of the study. The intervention group was significantly less depressed, but anxiety remained stable across groups. CONCLUSIONS With the lessons learned and feedback obtained from FCGs, this study is the first step to developing an effective social support intervention to support FCGs and healthcare providers in improving cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Reblin
- Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Dr., Tampa, FL, USA.
| | - Dana Ketcher
- Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Dr., Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Peter Forsyth
- Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Dr., Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Justin Pok
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Yelena P Wu
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Hunstman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Feasibility of implementing an electronic social support and resource visualization tool for caregivers in a neuro-oncology clinic. Support Care Cancer 2018; 26:4199-4206. [PMID: 29948397 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-018-4293-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The goals of this study were to assess the feasibility of a web-based application-electronic Social Network Assessment Program (eSNAP)-to automate the capture and visualization of family caregiver social network data of neuro-oncology patients. METHODS Caregivers were recruited from a neuro-oncology clinic at an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center. Participants completed baseline questionnaires on a laptop in clinic assessing demographic characteristics. After baseline, participants were randomly assigned to either create a social network visualization using eSNAP (intervention) or to usual care (control) condition. Those who used eSNAP provided likeability/usability data. All participants were asked to complete follow-up questionnaires at 3 and 6 weeks after baseline to determine feasibility of longitudinal study. RESULTS We recruited 40 caregivers of patients with primary malignant brain tumor to participate in this study. Participants rated eSNAP usability and likeability highly, indicating that eSNAP would help them consider their available social support. At 3 weeks, 90% of participants completed questionnaires and 82.5% completed questionnaires at 6 weeks. CONCLUSIONS There is a need to encourage family caregivers of patients with primary malignant brain tumor to engage their existing social network resources to help alleviate caregiver burden. Our findings suggest that our web-based application to address this issue is feasible to implement with high usability and likeability. This pilot study identified minor changes to the intervention to improve effectiveness and has implications for future research in this understudied population. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov, protocol number NCT03026699.
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Anxiety, memories and coping in patients undergoing intracranial tumor surgery. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2018; 170:132-139. [PMID: 29793130 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The diagnosis and the surgical removal of a brain tumor can have serious impact on the quality of life of a patient. The question rises, whether having more or just less memories of the procedure is better for coping with such an event. Furthermore, for preoperative information of future patients it is important to know how patients process their emotions and memories. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the link between preoperative anxiety, the perioperative experience and the quantity and quality of postoperative memories in patients who underwent intracranial tumor surgery. PATIENTS AND METHODS This study was a retrospective observational study; all patients who underwent intracranial tumor surgery at the Erasmus Medical Centre Rotterdam between January 1st 2014 and December 31st 2015 were identified. In May 2016, all patients who were not registered as deceased were sent a questionnaire about their anxieties, perceptions and memories of the perioperative period. RESULTS In total 476 patients were included. 272 patients responded, which resulted in a response rate of 57.14%. In the general anesthesia (GA) group there was a significant negative correlation between anxiety in the perioperative period and the quantity and quality of memories. In the awake craniotomy group, there was a significant negative correlation between anxiety after the operation and the quantity of memories. CONCLUSION Patients in the GA group who experienced anxiety in the perioperative period had less quantity and quality of memories and less patient satisfaction. Patients in the AC group who experienced anxiety after the operation had only a lower quantity of the memory; there was no correlation with patient satisfaction.
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Ramirez C, Christophe V, Dassonneville C, Grynberg D. Caregivers' quality of life and psychological health in response to functional, cognitive, neuropsychiatric and social deficits of patients with brain tumour: protocol for a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e016308. [PMID: 29061609 PMCID: PMC5665306 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with gliomas generally present cognitive, neuropsychiatric and functional deficits. Although previous research has shown that their caregivers present a poor quality of life and poor mental health, only a few studies have tested in a comprehensive way which deficits/preserved abilities of patients predominantly impact their caregivers. Furthermore, only a few studies have focused on the social impact of gliomas, which may also damage the caregivers' quality of life. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aims to investigate which patients' impairments are particularly deleterious for the caregivers and whether the histological characteristics of the gliomas also affect their quality of life. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In order to examine these research questions, this study intends to include 180 patients (60 patients with grade II gliomas, 60 patients with grade III gliomas and 60 patients with grade IV gliomas), their caregivers and 60 healthy controls. While patients will complete a full battery of cognitive, neuropsychiatric, functional and social tests, caregivers will complete questionnaires about their quality of life, depression, anxiety and burden. Patients' performances and caregivers' reports of depression and anxiety will be compared with the scores of healthy controls. Eventually, our aim will be to provide specific care support both to reduce patients' deficits and alleviate caregivers' difficulties. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has obtained the approval of the local faculty ethics committee ('Comité d'éthique en sciences comportementales'; 2016-5 S41 and 2015-3 S37). On completion of the study, data will be kept by Lille University for 5 years before they are destroyed. Study findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journal publications and conference presentations with no reference to a specific individual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Ramirez
- Department of Neurosurgery, CHRU de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Véronique Christophe
- UMR 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitives et Sciences Affectives, Univ. Lille, Lille, France
- SIRIC ONCOLille, Maison Régionale de la Recherche Clinique, Lille, France
| | - Charlotte Dassonneville
- UMR 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitives et Sciences Affectives, Univ. Lille, Lille, France
- SIRIC ONCOLille, Maison Régionale de la Recherche Clinique, Lille, France
| | - Delphine Grynberg
- UMR 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitives et Sciences Affectives, Univ. Lille, Lille, France
- SIRIC ONCOLille, Maison Régionale de la Recherche Clinique, Lille, France
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Reblin M, Small B, Jim H, Weimer J, Sherwood P. Mediating burden and stress over time: Caregivers of patients with primary brain tumor. Psychooncology 2017; 27:607-612. [PMID: 28801927 PMCID: PMC10111220 DOI: 10.1002/pon.4527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing literature on the effects of cancer caregiving on the well-being of informal family caregivers. However, there has been little longitudinal research on caregivers of patients with the complex, rapidly-changing disease of primary malignant brain tumor. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to model longitudinal relationships between caregiver burden, social support, and distress within caregivers of patients with primary brain tumor. METHODS Caregiver participants were recruited from a neuro-oncology clinic. Caregiver questionnaire data, including sociodemographics, social support, depression, anxiety, and caregiving burden, were collected at 4 time points (diagnosis, +4, +8, and +12 mo). Using the stress process model as a guide, we hypothesized that early burden would predict later depression and anxiety, and this would be mediated by social support. RESULTS Using data from 147 participants, we found support for the stress process model in caregivers of patients with primary brain tumor. Greater burden at diagnosis was associated with lower social support at 4 months, and lower social support was related to higher depression and anxiety at 8 months, as well as to changes in anxiety between 8 and 12 months. CONCLUSION We found evidence of the stress process model in caregivers of primary brain tumor patients unfolding over the course of a year after diagnosis. Our findings emphasize the potential importance of early programs for caregivers to ensure low initial levels of burden, which may have a positive effect on social support, depression, and anxiety.
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Saria MG, Nyamathi A, Phillips LR, Stanton AL, Evangelista L, Kesari S, Maliski S. The Hidden Morbidity of Cancer: Burden in Caregivers of Patients with Brain Metastases. Nurs Clin North Am 2017; 52:159-178. [PMID: 28189161 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnur.2016.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Caregiving is a highly individualized experience. Although numerous articles have been published on caregiver burden from a variety of diagnoses and conditions, this article presents the unique features of caregiving in patients with brain metastases. Improved long-term survival, concerns about disease recurrence or progression, the cancer experience (initial diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, recurrence, progression, and end of life), and the increasing complexity of cancer treatments add to the demands placed on the caregivers of patients with brain metastases. Health care professionals must identify caregiver burden and administer the appropriate interventions, which must be as unique and individualized as the caregivers' experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlon Garzo Saria
- Clinical Trials and Research, John Wayne Cancer Institute, Providence Saint John's Health Center, University of California, Los Angeles, School of Nursing, 2200 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA.
| | - Adeline Nyamathi
- University of California, Los Angeles, School of Nursing, 700 Tiverton Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Linda R Phillips
- University of California, Los Angeles, School of Nursing, 700 Tiverton Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Annette L Stanton
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, 1285 Franz Hall, Box 951563, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1563, USA
| | - Lorraine Evangelista
- Nursing Science, University of California, Irvine, 106 Berk Hall, Irvine, CA 92697-3959, USA
| | - Santosh Kesari
- Department of Translational Neuro-Oncology and Neurotherapeutics, John Wayne Cancer Institute, Providence Saint John's Health Center, 2200 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
| | - Sally Maliski
- University of California, Los Angeles, School of Nursing, 700 Tiverton Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; University of Kansas Medical Center, University of Kansas School of Nursing, Mail Stop 2029, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
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Bayen E, Laigle-Donadey F, Prouté M, Hoang-Xuan K, Joël ME, Delattre JY. The multidimensional burden of informal caregivers in primary malignant brain tumor. Support Care Cancer 2016; 25:245-253. [PMID: 27624465 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-016-3397-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Informal caregivers (ICs) provide care and improve the quality of life of patients with malignant brain tumor. We analyze the impact of their involvement on themselves from a triple perspective. METHODS Home-dwelling patients with primary malignant brain tumor underwent a medical examination. ICs burden was evaluated by a self-administered postal questionnaire. Objective burden (Informal Care Time, ICT), subjective burden (Zarit Burden Inventory, ZBI), and financial burden (valuation of lost earnings using the Replacement and Opportunity Cost Methods, RCM, OCM) were evaluated. RESULTS ICs (N = 84) were principally women (87 %) and spouses (64 %), of mean age 55 years, who assisted patients of mean age 53 years and with a mean KPS score of 61 (range = 30-90, med = 60). Subjective burden was moderate (mean ZBI = 30). Objective burden was high (mean ICT = 11.7 h/day), mostly consisting of supervision time. Higher subjective and objective burden were associated with poorer functional status (KPS) but not with a higher level of cognitive disorders in multivariate analyses. Other independent associated factors were bladder dysfunction and co-residency for objective burden and working and a poor social network for subjective burden. The 56 working ICs made work arrangements (75 %) that impacted their wages (36 %) and careers (30 %). Financial burden due to uncompensated caregiving hours for Activities of Daily Living had a mean monetary value from Є677(RCM) to Є1683(OCM) per month (i.e., ranging from Є8124 to Є20196 per year). CONCLUSIONS IC burden is multidimensional. Greater provision of formal care, more IC support programs, and economic interventions targeting IC employment and finances are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eléonore Bayen
- Department of Neuro-Rehabilitation, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France. .,Health Economics Department LEDa-LEGOS, PSL University Paris-Dauphine, Paris, France.
| | | | - Myrtille Prouté
- Health Economics Department LEDa-LEGOS, PSL University Paris-Dauphine, Paris, France
| | - Khê Hoang-Xuan
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France.,Sorbonne University UPMC Paris 06, CRICM, Paris, France.,INSERM U1127, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR 7225, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Eve Joël
- Health Economics Department LEDa-LEGOS, PSL University Paris-Dauphine, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Yves Delattre
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France.,Sorbonne University UPMC Paris 06, CRICM, Paris, France.,INSERM U1127, Paris, France.,CNRS, UMR 7225, Paris, France
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