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Jong MC, Fernee CR, Stenling A, Lown EA, Berntsen S, Victorson DE, Jong M. Protocol of a randomised controlled multicentre trial investigating the effectiveness and safety of a wilderness programme on the mental and physical well-being of adolescents and young adults affected by cancer: the WAYA-2 study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e087626. [PMID: 38772886 PMCID: PMC11110565 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-087626] [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: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) affected by cancer are an understudied group. Effective interventions are needed to support coping with the late effects of cancer, its treatment and to promote quality of life. Nature-based interventions may be promising in support of the self-management and health of AYAs affected by cancer. However, randomised controlled studies (RCTs) on the effectiveness of such interventions are lacking. We performed a first pilot RCT (n=42) that showed that it is feasible and safe to conduct such a study. Here, we propose a full-scale RCT to investigate the effectiveness and safety of a wilderness programme on the mental and physical health of AYAs affected by cancer. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Participants are 150 AYAs affected by cancer, aged 16-39 years, who will be randomised to a wilderness (n=75) or a hotel stay (n=75). The wilderness programme is an 8-day intervention including a 6-day wilderness expedition. This is followed 3 months later by a 4-day intervention including a 2-day basecamp. Activities include hiking, backpacking, kayaking, rock climbing, mindfulness and bush-crafting. The comparison group is an 8-day hotel stay followed by a 4-day hotel stay (interventions include two travel days) at the same hotel after 3 months. Primary outcomes are psychological well-being and nature connectedness up to 1 year after the study start. Secondary outcomes are quality of life, physical activity and safety parameters. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The Swedish Ethical Review Authority approved the study protocol on 27 September 2023 (reference: 2023-05247-01). The recruitment started on 19 February 2024 and the first part is planned to end on 31 December 2027. Study results will be disseminated by means of scientific publications, presentations at conferences, popular articles, interviews, chronicles and books. News items will be spread via social media, websites and newsletters. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN93856392.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miek C Jong
- Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden
- Department of Community Medicine, National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), UiT The Arctic University of Norway Faculty of Health Sciences, Tromso, Norway
| | - Carina Ribe Fernee
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Sorlandet Hospital Kristiansand, Kristiansand, Norway
- Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Andreas Stenling
- Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
| | - E Anne Lown
- Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sveinung Berntsen
- Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - David E Victorson
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mats Jong
- Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden
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Ejegi-Memeh S, Sherborne V, Mayland C, Tod A, Taylor BH. Mental health and wellbeing in mesothelioma: A qualitative study exploring what helps the wellbeing of those living with this illness and their informal carers. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2024; 70:102572. [PMID: 38640636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2024.102572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mesothelioma is an incurable, asbestos related cancer with a poor prognosis. Little is known about how patients and carers living with the condition manage their mental health and wellbeing needs. This paper reports findings on interventions being used by patients and informal carers living with mesothelioma and those which they find most helpful. METHODS In-depth interviews with patients (n = 10) and (informal) carers (n = 11) living with mesothelioma in the UK. We analysed our data inductively using a reflexive thematic analysis approach. RESULTS Participants described the importance of both smaller and larger actions and strategies which helped with their mental health. This included spending more time with family and friends and going on holidays. Professionals who participants said supported their mental health journey included not only specialist nurses and mental health professionals but also legal and Asbestos Support Group professionals. The latter demonstrates the unique needs and support required for this population. Exposure to asbestos as the cause of mesothelioma, has led to a social justice aspect of the experience of living with this cancer. Participants reported the importance of collective action to their mental health and wellbeing. The data indicate that patients and carers may have distinct mental health and wellbeing requirements and need to manage these in different ways at different times. CONCLUSIONS Findings have implications for nurses and other key professionals working in healthcare, community and legal settings supporting this client group, and for those living with mesothelioma who want to understand ways to enhance their own wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Ejegi-Memeh
- Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sheffield, UK.
| | - Virginia Sherborne
- Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Catriona Mayland
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine & Population Health, UK
| | - Angela Tod
- Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Bethany H Taylor
- Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sheffield, UK
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Sterckx A, Delbaere B, De Blust G, Spacova I, Samson R, Remmen R, Keune H. Quality criteria of nature-based interventions in healthcare facilities: a scoping review. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1327108. [PMID: 38274513 PMCID: PMC10808570 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1327108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Implementing integrated nature-based interventions that simultaneously serve human health and the restoration of biodiversity in healthcare facilities is considered a promising strategy. As an emerging field of research and practice in healthcare, identification of quality criteria is necessary to support desired outcomes related to biodiversity, human health and intervention processes. This study is part of a larger research project in collaboration with the Flemish Agency of Nature and Forest in Belgium. Methods A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews, in PubMed, Medline, Web of Science and Scopus. A step-by-step tabular screening process was conducted to identify relevant studies and reviews of nature-based interventions, published in English between January 2005 and April 2023. A qualitative content analysis was conducted and the results were then presented to the project steering group and a panel of stakeholders for refinement. Results After filtering on the eligibility criteria, and with focus on healthcare facilities, 14 articles were included in this study. A preliminary nature-based interventions quality framework with a set of quality indicators has been developed. Discussion When designing integrated nature-based interventions, a needs analysis of users and the outdoor environment should be conducted. Next, the integration of a One Health and biodiversity perspective and the application of a complex intervention framework, could support the quality of the design and implementation of nature-based interventions in healthcare facilities and facilitate their assessment. In future work, more rigorous research into the design and implementation of integrated nature-based interventions is needed to test and refine the quality criteria in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Sterckx
- Chair Care and the Natural Living Environment, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ben Delbaere
- Chair Care and the Natural Living Environment, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Geert De Blust
- Chair Care and the Natural Living Environment, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Irina Spacova
- Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Roeland Samson
- Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Roy Remmen
- Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Hans Keune
- Chair Care and the Natural Living Environment, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Jong M, Stub T, Jong MC. Supporting Personal Growth in Childhood, Adolescent and Young-Adult Cancer Survivors Through Challenges in Nature - A Qualitative Study of WAYA Wilderness Programme Participation. GLOBAL ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE AND HEALTH 2024; 13:27536130241238150. [PMID: 38464957 PMCID: PMC10924559 DOI: 10.1177/27536130241238150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Background Childhood, adolescent and young-adult (AYA) cancer survivors often experience health problems due to late or long-term effects of their cancer or the treatment thereof. The general population gains health benefits from immersion in nature, and nature-based programmes seem to be an intervention that can promote health among childhood and AYA cancer survivors. Objective To explore the impact of the WAYA wilderness programme on the health of childhood and AYA cancer survivors. Methods The study had a qualitative approach, with data from individual interviews (n = 18) 3 months after completion of the WAYA programme. In addition, case report data was collected during follow-up talks (1, 2 and 12 months after the programme) (n = 19). The WAYA programme consisted of an 8-day expedition, followed 3 months later by a 4-day base camp. The programme included activities such as hiking, backpacking, kayaking, rock climbing, bushcraft and mindfulness. Data was analysed according to a qualitative content analysis. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) were followed. Results An overarching theme was identified: "Personal growth from challenges in nature supported by deep connections with others". In 4 additional themes, participants' experiences describe how deep personal connections arose, as they developed a feeling of being able and competent in nature. Nature provided a space that supported relaxation and respite from everyday challenges and stimuli, which also led to an experience of being more connected to nature. Conclusion The WAYA programme was experienced as being of support to childhood and AYA cancer survivors. The programme provided them with skills and tools to be safe in nature. When connected to nature, the participants developed trust and self-confidence, personal growth, relaxation and recovery from stress. Their engagement in outdoor activities continued after completion of the programme, when they returned to everyday life at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mats Jong
- Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden
| | - Trine Stub
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, The Arctic University of Norway, UiT, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Miek C Jong
- Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall, Sweden
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, The Arctic University of Norway, UiT, Tromsø, Norway
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Ortiz M, Schröder ML, Brinkhaus B, Stöckigt B. Implementation of a Mindful Walking Intervention in Breast Cancer Patients After Their Primary Oncologic Treatment: Results of a Qualitative Study Within a Randomized Controlled Trial. Integr Cancer Ther 2024; 23:15347354241237972. [PMID: 38654515 PMCID: PMC11041535 DOI: 10.1177/15347354241237972] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer survivors often suffer from diagnosis- and therapy-related long-term side effects, such as cancer related fatigue, restricted stress resilience and quality of life. Walking as a physical activity and mindfulness practice have been shown to be helpful in studies. The aim of this study was to compare the individual experiences and subjectively perceived effects of walking in combination with mindfulness practice with moderate walking alone in breast cancer patients. This paper focuses on the qualitative results of a mixed-methods pilot study. METHODS Breast cancer patients who had finished their primary oncologic treatment at least 6 months ago were randomized to an 8-week group intervention program of either mindful walking or moderate walking. Within the qualitative study part, semi-structured focus group interviews (2 interviews per study arm) were conducted and analyzed using a qualitative content analysis approach. Audio recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and pseudonymized. The subsequent data analysis was performed by using MAXQDA®. RESULTS A total of 51 women (mean age 55.8 [SD 10.9] years) were included in the RCT, among these 20 (mean age 56.7 [SD 12.0] years) participated in the focus group interviews (n = 11 patients of the mindful walking group; n = 9 patients of the walking group). Breast cancer patients in both groups described different effects in the complex areas of self-efficacy, coping, body awareness and self-reflection. While mindful walking primarily promoted body awareness and inner strength by mindfulness in breast cancer patients, moderate walking promoted self-efficacy by a confidence of their body and an easily integrated and accepted way of physical activity. CONCLUSIONS Study interventions and the study setting triggered processes and reflections on one's own health and situation. However, mindful walking and moderate walking seem to address different resources. This important knowledge may help oncologists and other therapists to assess what type of interventions can best meet the needs and requirements of individual patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION DKRS00011521; prospectively registered 21.12.2016; https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00011521.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Ortiz
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maren Luise Schröder
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Benno Brinkhaus
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Barbara Stöckigt
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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