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Anghileri E, Tramacere I, Morlino S, Leuzzi C, Gutierrez LP, Motta S, Silvani A, Amato A, Berrini FR. Critical Issues for Patients and Caregivers in Neuro-Oncology during the COVID-19 Pandemic: What We Have Learnt from an Observational Study. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:3895-3907. [PMID: 39057160 PMCID: PMC11275436 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31070288] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic affected neuro-oncological patients and their caregivers regarding tumor care and emotional functioning, including Quality of Life (QoL). This study aimed to understand how COVID-19 affected their psychological state and the relations between patients and health personnel in neuro-oncology. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on neuro-oncological patients and their caregivers. RESULTS A total of 162 patients and 66 caregivers completed the questionnaire. Altogether, 37.5% of patients perceived a greater risk of contracting COVID-19 compared to the general population. On a 0-10 scale, the patients' tumor-related anxiety score was 5.8, and their COVID-19-related score was 4.6. The caregivers reported 7.7 and 5.5, respectively. QoL was described as at least good in 75% of both patients and caregivers; the caregivers' care burden increased in 22.7% of cases during the pandemic, with no correlation with QoL. Future perception often changed, both in patients and caregivers. In 18% of cases, the cancer treatment schedule was changed, either by patient decision or by medical decision. However, 93.5% of patients were satisfied with their overall care. CONCLUSIONS A considerable proportion of patients and caregivers still perceived the tumor disease as more burdensome than the pandemic, and their future as more uncertain. Such data suggest the need to build a productive alliance between patients and health professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Anghileri
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Irene Tramacere
- Department of Research and Clinical Development, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Sara Morlino
- Radiotherapy Unit, Neurosurgery Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Catia Leuzzi
- Clinical Neuro-Science Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.L.); (L.P.G.)
| | - Lorena Pareja Gutierrez
- Clinical Neuro-Science Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy; (C.L.); (L.P.G.)
| | - Saba Motta
- Scientific and Patients Library, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Antonio Silvani
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Via Celoria 11, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Anna Amato
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy;
| | - Francesca Romana Berrini
- AITC-Associazione Italiana Tumori Cerebrali (Italian Brain Tumor Association), 20133 Milan, Italy;
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Wang S, Zheng M, Xu W, Zhang L, Zhu Y, Wan H. Cancer patients' perceptions of the meaning in life: a protocol for a meta-synthesis of qualitative research. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078357. [PMID: 38862219 PMCID: PMC11168129 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078357] [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: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The onset of cancer compels patients to grapple with existential questions. Enabling individuals with cancer, irrespective of the disease stage, to experience meaningful lives is of utmost importance in enhancing their overall quality of life. This study will synthesise qualitative research evidence to understand cancer patients' perceptions and perspectives regarding their meaning in life. Such insights ultimately contribute to enhancing the profound experience of meaning throughout the life course of cancer patients. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The English and Chinese databases we will search include the Cochrane Library, PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMbase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan Fang Data, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and VIP Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals. Two independent reviewers will assess the quality of the included studies using the standard JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research and extract data using the standard JBI Data Extraction Tool for Qualitative Research. The JBI meta-aggregation approach will be employed to compare, analyse and summarise the original results. To enhance confidence in the synthesised results of the qualitative study, the final synthesised study results will be graded using the JBI ConQual approach. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION External ethical approval is not necessary for this review since it involves a retrospective analysis of publicly available primary data through secondary analysis. The findings of the review will be disseminated by publishing them in a peer-reviewed journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42023447664.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuman Wang
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Mimi Zheng
- Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjie Xu
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongwei Wan
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Shanghai, China
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Craig S, Cao Y, McMahon J, Anderson T, Stark P, Brown Wilson C, Creighton L, Gonella S, Bavelaar L, Vlčková K, Mitchell G. Exploring the Holistic Needs of People Living with Cancer in Care Homes: An Integrative Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:3166. [PMID: 38132056 PMCID: PMC10743280 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11243166] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to 26% of individuals residing in care homes are impacted by cancer. This underscores the importance of understanding the holistic needs of care home residents living with cancer to enhance the quality of their care. The primary objective of this integrative literature review was to consolidate the available evidence concerning the comprehensive needs of people living with cancer in care home settings, providing valuable insights into addressing their diverse needs. An integrative literature review was conducted using a systematic approach. Extensive searches were conducted in three databases, complemented by a thorough examination of grey literature and reference lists of relevant papers. The review focused on literature published between 2012 and 2022. The screening process involved two independent reviewers, with a third reviewer resolving any discrepancies. The review identified twenty research papers that met the eligibility criteria. These papers shed light on three primary themes related to the holistic needs of care home residents with cancer: physical, psychological, and end-of-life needs. Physical needs encompassed pain management, symptom control, and nutrition, while psychological needs involved social support, emotional well-being, and mental health care. End-of-life needs addressed end-of-life care and advance care planning. These themes highlight the multifaceted nature of cancer care in care homes and underscore the importance of addressing residents' holistic needs in a comprehensive and integrated manner. Improving care home education about cancer and integrating palliative and hospice services within this setting are vital for addressing the diverse needs of residents with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Craig
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.C.); (J.M.); (T.A.); (P.S.); (C.B.W.); (L.C.)
| | - Yanting Cao
- The Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200437, China;
- Stellar Care NW Ltd., Ellesmere Port CH65 1A, UK
| | - James McMahon
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.C.); (J.M.); (T.A.); (P.S.); (C.B.W.); (L.C.)
| | - Tara Anderson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.C.); (J.M.); (T.A.); (P.S.); (C.B.W.); (L.C.)
| | - Patrick Stark
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.C.); (J.M.); (T.A.); (P.S.); (C.B.W.); (L.C.)
| | - Christine Brown Wilson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.C.); (J.M.); (T.A.); (P.S.); (C.B.W.); (L.C.)
| | - Laura Creighton
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.C.); (J.M.); (T.A.); (P.S.); (C.B.W.); (L.C.)
| | - Silvia Gonella
- Direction of Health Professions, City of Health and Science University Hospital of Torino, Corso Bramante 88-90, 10126 Turin, Italy;
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Via Santena 5 bis, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Bavelaar
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Gary Mitchell
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK; (S.C.); (J.M.); (T.A.); (P.S.); (C.B.W.); (L.C.)
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Carreno DF, Eisenbeck N, Uclés-Juárez R, García-Montes JM. Reappraising personal values in cancer: Meaning-in-life adaptation, meaningfulness, and quality of life. Psychooncology 2023; 32:1905-1917. [PMID: 37930051 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explores the reappraisal of personal values among people with cancer post-diagnosis and its connections to meaningfulness, encompassing personal meaning and sense of meaning, and various dimensions of quality of life. METHODS A total of 144 patients with diverse cancer types and a control group comprising 158 healthy adults with similar demographic characteristics completed the Valued Living Questionnaire-Perceived Change, the Personal Meaning Profile-Brief, the Portrait Values Questionnaire, and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Spiritual Well-Being. RESULTS Cancer patients displayed a substantial values reappraisal compared to healthy adults. They reported an increased significance of social areas and self-transcendental values, including close relationships (family, partner, and friends), spirituality, citizenship, and universalism, as well as an increased importance of self-care and self in general. Conversely, cancer patients assigned less importance to work and self-enhancement values such as stimulation, power, and achievement. Cluster analysis revealed that patients who reappraised their values exhibited higher meaningfulness and better indicators of quality of life, including spiritual and physical well-being, compared to patients who did not modify their value system. CONCLUSIONS These findings underscore the importance of assessing and promoting meaning-in-life adaptability among people with cancer, with potential applications in meaning-centered therapies and interventions aimed at enhancing psychological flexibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- David F Carreno
- Department of Psychology, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | - Nikolett Eisenbeck
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatment, Faculty of Psychology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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Wang S, Zheng M, Zhu Y, Zhang L, Li X, Wan H. Exploring the experience of meaning-centered group psychotherapy among Chinese cancer patients during active treatment: a descriptive qualitative study. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1264257. [PMID: 37867777 PMCID: PMC10590054 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1264257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Meaninglessness poses a significant psychological challenge for cancer patients, negatively affecting their quality of life and increasing the risk of suicide. Meaning-Centered Group Therapy (MCGP) is an intervention designed specifically to enhance the meaning of life of cancer patients. Extensive research has documented its effectiveness across various cultures and populations. However, limited research has been conducted on the subjective experiences and perspectives of participants engaged in MCGP. Thus, the purpose of this study was to employ a qualitative design to explore the experiences and viewpoints of Chinese cancer patients who have undergone MCGP. Methods Within a two-week timeframe following the conclusion of MCGP, semi-structured interviews were administered to twenty-one participants who had engaged in the therapy. The interview data were transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis. Results Four main themes were identified: (a) Self-perceived personal change, (b) Overall experience of group therapy, (c) Barriers to participation of MCGP, and (d) Suggestions for future interventions. Conclusion Despite the barriers to participation in the MCGP process, the overall experience for Chinese cancer patients undergoing active treatment is valuable and positive, providing multiple benefits. Future studies could explore the adaptation of MCGP to a broader range of cancer populations and diverse study populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuman Wang
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Mimi Zheng
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoru Li
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongwei Wan
- Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai Proton Heavy Ion Hospital, Shanghai, China
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Almeida M, Ramos C, Maciel L, Basto-Pereira M, Leal I. Meaning in life, meaning-making and posttraumatic growth in cancer patients: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychol 2022; 13:995981. [PMID: 36570997 PMCID: PMC9784472 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.995981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the association between meaning in life (MiL), meaning-making and posttraumatic growth (PTG) in the context of cancer. Methods A systematic search was conducted in eighteen electronic databases. The screening and selection process followed the PRISMA guidelines. For the purpose of the meta-analysis, the correlation coefficients between meaning in life and posttraumatic growth were extracted from the included studies. The effect size (r) was calculated using the restricted maximum-likelihood estimator, a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed through the Q statistic, I2 index and forest plot, while publication bias was analyzed with the use of the funnel plot and Egger's test. Results 889 records were considered according to the inclusion criteria. A total of nine articles, published between 2006 and 2021, were included in the systematic review. More than half were published in the last five years. The sample was mostly diagnosed with breast cancer. The meta-analysis included five articles (N = 844) and the results indicate a significant moderate correlation between meaning in life and posttraumatic growth (r = 0.43, 95% IC [0.36, 0.50]). Discussion In conclusion, there is a clear association between meaning in life and posttraumatic growth in cancer patients. Future research should explore this relationship further, in order to better assist and guide meaning centered interventions that can potentiate a positive adjustment and possibly growth from the cancer experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarida Almeida
- Ispa – Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal,*Correspondence: Margarida Almeida,
| | - Catarina Ramos
- LabPSI – Laboratório de Psicologia Egas Moniz, Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz, Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Laura Maciel
- WJCR – William James Center for Research, Ispa – Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Miguel Basto-Pereira
- WJCR – William James Center for Research, Ispa – Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel Leal
- WJCR – William James Center for Research, Ispa – Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
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