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van Erp LME, Maurice-Stam H, Beek LR, Kremer LCM, den Hartogh JG, van Gorp M, Huizinga GA, Grootenhuis MA. Online cognitive-behavioral group intervention for young adult survivors of childhood cancer: a pilot study. J Psychosoc Oncol 2022; 41:518-538. [PMID: 36537338 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2022.2150110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young adult childhood cancer survivors (YACCS) are a vulnerable group in need of psychosocial support, but tailored interventions are lacking. AIM To examine feasibility and satisfaction, and to explore preliminary effectiveness of an online group intervention (Op Koers Online for YACCS) aimed at teaching active coping skills and providing peer-contact, thereby reducing and preventing psychosocial problems in YACCS. The intervention is based on psycho-education, cognitive behavioral therapy, and aspects of acceptance and commitment therapy. METHODS YACCS completed questionnaires pre- and post-intervention. Feasibility was based on attendance, drop-out, and an evaluation questionnaire was administered to assess satisfaction. Preliminary effectiveness was evaluated with the Mastery Scale, Illness Cognition Questionnaire, Distress Thermometer, Impact of Cancer - Childhood Survivors, and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory. Preliminary effectiveness was investigated by testing differences on the psychosocial outcomes (coping and psychosocial wellbeing) between T0 and T1 within respondents, using paired samples t tests and Cohen's d. RESULTS 10 YACCS participated in the intervention and completed all questionnaires. There was no drop-out; 90% of participants attended five out of six sessions. Overall, participants were satisfied with the intervention; 7.6 on a 0-10 scale. Distress (Cohen's d=-.6, p=.030) and feelings of helplessness (Cohen's d=-.8, p=.001) reduced from T0 to T1, while self-efficacy (Cohen's d=.8, p=.013,) improved. Other outcomes displayed small effects, but did not change significantly. CONCLUSIONS This first, small pilot study showed short-term decrease in distress and feelings of helplessness and improvement of self-efficacy. Op Koers Online was positively evaluated by YACCS and course leaders, filling a gap in psychosocial services for YACCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loes M E van Erp
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Laura R Beek
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Leontien C M Kremer
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap G den Hartogh
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Vereniging Kinderkanker Nederland, De Bilt, The Netherlands
| | - Marloes van Gorp
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gea A Huizinga
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Beatrix Children's Hospital, University of Groningen/University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Maurice-Stam H, van Erp LME, Maas A, van Oers HA, Kremer LCM, van Dulmen-den Broeder E, Tissing WJE, Loonen JJ, van der Pal HJH, Beek LR, de Vries ACH, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Ronckers CM, Bresters D, Louwerens M, van der Heiden-van der Loo M, Huizinga GA, Grootenhuis MA. Psychosocial developmental milestones of young adult survivors of childhood cancer. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:6839-6849. [PMID: 35538326 PMCID: PMC9213344 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07113-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The study aimed to compare the psychosocial development of young adult survivors of childhood cancer (YACCS) with a norm group of young adults from the general population. Methods From 2017 to 2020, 558 YACCS (18–30 years, 51% female, 10.9% CNS cancer) who participated in the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (DCCSS) LATER cohort (diagnosed 1963–2001) part 2 completed the Course of Life Questionnaire (CoLQ), assessing the achievement of milestones. Items were grouped into the scales autonomy, psychosexual, and social development. Differences between YACCS and norm group were examined with ANOVA and Cohen’s d (CoLQ scales) and with logistic regression analysis and odds ratio (OR) (CoLQ items), for the total group and YACCS of CNS cancer. Results The total group of YACCS did not report a less favorable psychosocial development than the norm group. YACCS of CNS cancer scored lower than the norm group (p < 0.001) on the scales autonomy (d = − 0.36) and psychosexual (d = − 0.46). Additionally, on half of the items of autonomy (0.25 ≤ OR ≤ 0.34), psychosexual (0.30 ≤ OR ≤ 0.48), and social (0.23 ≤ OR ≤ 0.47) development, YACCS of CNS cancer were less likely (p < 0.01) than the norm group to have achieved the milestones. Conclusion Overall, psychosocial development of YACCS was as favorable as the norm, but YACCS of CNS cancer were at risk of an unfavorable psychosocial development in all domains. Monitoring psychosocial development should be included in the standards of psychosocial care, especially for CNS cancer patients and survivors, to be able to trace delay. Personalized interventions should be offered to improve the psychosocial development in an early stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heleen Maurice-Stam
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Loes M E van Erp
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Maas
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hedy A van Oers
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam Public Health, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leontien C M Kremer
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Wim J E Tissing
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Beatrix Children's Hospital/University of Groningen/University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Helena J H van der Pal
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Laura R Beek
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Andrica C H de Vries
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Sophia Children's Hospital/Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marry M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Sophia Children's Hospital/Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cécile M Ronckers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dorine Bresters
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Willem Alexander Children's Hospital/Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Gea A Huizinga
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Beatrix Children's Hospital/University of Groningen/University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Martha A Grootenhuis
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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van Gorp M, van Erp LME, Maas A, Kremer LCM, van Dulmen-den Broeder E, Tissing WJE, Loonen JJ, van der Pal HJH, de Vries ACH, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Ronckers CM, Bresters D, Louwerens M, van der Heiden-van der Loo M, Huizinga GA, Maurice-Stam H, Grootenhuis MA. Increased health-related quality of life impairments of male and female survivors of childhood cancer: DCCSS LATER 2 psycho-oncology study. Cancer 2021; 128:1074-1084. [PMID: 34726782 PMCID: PMC9298191 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.34003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Background The objective of this study was to compare the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) of Dutch adult male and female childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) to general population references and to study medical determinants. Methods CCSs from the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study LATER cohort (1963‐2001) part 2, who were 18 years old or older (time since diagnosis ≥ 5 years), were invited to complete the TNO‐AZL Questionnaire for Adult Health‐Related Quality of Life. Domain scores and proportions of CCSs with impaired HRQOL (score < 25th percentile of the reference scores) were compared with references via Mann‐Whitney U tests and logistic regression analyses corrected for age and sex (P < .004). Interactions of group with sex were included if they were significant (P < .05). Moreover, medical determinants were analyzed with multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results HRQOL scores for 1766 CCSs (mean age, 35.9 years [standard deviation, 9.4 years]; male, 51%; response rate, 71%) differed from references on most domains with small effect sizes. Both male and female CCSs were more often impaired in gross and fine motor functioning, cognitive functioning, sleep, and vitality with odds ratios (ORs) > 1.4. In addition, female CCSs were more often impaired in daily activities, pain, and sexuality (ORs, 1.4‐1.9) and were less often aggressive (OR, 0.6). CCCs of central nervous system (CNS) tumors, bone tumors, and retinoblastoma and those with cranial, abdominopelvic, or lower extremity radiotherapy were at increased risk of impairment in 1 or more domains. Conclusions Dutch adult CCSs, especially females, have impaired HRQOL in several domains; this is most pronounced in cognitive functioning. The vulnerabilities of subgroups at risk, such as CCSs of CNS tumors, were confirmed. Surveillance of HRQOL and multidisciplinary survivor care are recommended. Lay Summary The health‐related quality of life in a Dutch nationwide cohort of 1766 survivors of childhood cancer was studied. Survivors of childhood cancer were found to have lower health‐related quality of life in several domains (eg, motor functioning and vitality) in comparison with the general population. They most often reported low cognitive functioning (eg, memory and attention). Females had low health‐related quality of life in more domains than males. Survivors of brain tumors had low health‐related quality of life in most domains. Monitoring health‐related quality of life regularly and collaborating between disciplines in survivor care is recommended.
Dutch adult survivors of childhood cancer, especially females and central nervous system tumor survivors, have impaired health‐related quality of life in several domains; this is most pronounced in cognitive functioning. Surveillance of health‐related quality of life and multidisciplinary survivor care are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marloes van Gorp
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Loes M E van Erp
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Anne Maas
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Leontien C M Kremer
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Wim J E Tissing
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Andrica C H de Vries
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marry M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Erasmus MC Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cécile M Ronckers
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Dorine Bresters
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Gea A Huizinga
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Pediatric Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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4
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van Erp LME, Maurice-Stam H, Kremer LCM, Tissing WJE, van der Pal HJH, de Vries ACH, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Versluys BAB, van der Heiden-van der Loo M, Huizinga GA, Grootenhuis MA. A vulnerable age group: the impact of cancer on the psychosocial well-being of young adult childhood cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:4751-4761. [PMID: 33527229 PMCID: PMC8236461 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06009-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to increase our understanding of the psychosocial well-being of young adult childhood cancer survivors (YACCS) as well as the positive and negative impacts of cancer. Methods YACCS (aged 18–30, diagnosed ≤ 18, time since diagnosis ≥ 5 years) cross-sectionally filled out the “Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Young Adults” (PedsQL-YA), “Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale” (HADS), and “Checklist Individual Strengths” (CIS-20R) to measure fatigue and survivor-specific “Impact of Cancer - Childhood Survivors” (IOC-CS), which measures the long-term impact of childhood cancer in several domains. Descriptive statistics (IOC-CS), logistic regression (HADS, CIS-20R), and ANOVA (PedsQL-YA, HADS, CIS-20R) were performed. Associations between positive and negative impacts of childhood cancer and psychosocial outcomes were examined with linear regression analyses. Results YACCS (N = 151, 61.6% female, mean age 24.1 ± 3.6, mean time since diagnosis 13.6 ± 3.8) reported lower HRQOL (− .4 ≤ d ≤ − .5, p ≤ .001) and more anxiety (d = .4, p ≤ .001), depression (d = .4, p ≤ .01), and fatigue (.3 ≤ d ≤ .5, p ≤ .001) than young adults from the general Dutch population. They were at an increased risk of experiencing (sub)clinical anxiety (OR = 1.8, p = .017). YACCS reported more impact on scales representing a positive rather than negative impact of CC. Various domains of impact of childhood cancer were related to psychosocial outcomes, especially “Life Challenges” (HRQOL β = − .18, anxiety β = .36, depression β = .29) and “Body & Health” (HRQOL β = .27, anxiety β = − .25, depression β = − .26, fatigue β = − .47). Conclusion YACCS are vulnerable to psychosocial difficulties, but they also experience positive long-term impacts of childhood cancer. Positive and negative impacts of childhood cancer were associated with psychosocial outcomes in YACCS. Screening of psychosocial outcomes and offering targeted interventions are necessary to optimize psychosocial long-term follow-up care for YACCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M E van Erp
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - H Maurice-Stam
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - L C M Kremer
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - W J E Tissing
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Beatrix Children's Hospital/University of Groningen/University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - H J H van der Pal
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - A C H de Vries
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Sophia Children's Hospital/Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Sophia Children's Hospital/Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - B A B Versluys
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Wilhelmina Children's Hospital/University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - G A Huizinga
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Beatrix Children's Hospital/University of Groningen/University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - M A Grootenhuis
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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5
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Nies M, Dekker BL, Sulkers E, Huizinga GA, Klein Hesselink MS, Maurice-Stam H, Grootenhuis MA, Brouwers AH, Burgerhof JGM, van Dam EWCM, Havekes B, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Corssmit EPM, Kremer LCM, Netea-Maier RT, van der Pal HJH, Peeters RP, Plukker JTM, Ronckers CM, van Santen HM, van der Horst-Schrivers ANA, Tissing WJE, Bocca G, Links TP. Psychosocial development in survivors of childhood differentiated thyroid carcinoma: a cross-sectional study. Eur J Endocrinol 2018; 178:215-223. [PMID: 29254931 PMCID: PMC5811933 DOI: 10.1530/eje-17-0741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The impact of childhood differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) on psychosocial development has not yet been studied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the achievement of psychosocial developmental milestones in long-term survivors of childhood DTC. DESIGN AND METHODS Survivors of childhood DTC diagnosed between 1970 and 2013 were included. Reasons for exclusion were age <18 or >35 years at follow-up, a follow-up period <5 years or diagnosis with DTC as a second malignant neoplasm. Survivors gathered peer controls of similar age and sex (n = 30). A comparison group non-affected with cancer (n = 508) and other childhood cancer survivors (CCS) were also used to compare psychosocial development. To assess the achievement of psychosocial milestones (social, autonomy and psychosexual development), the course of life questionnaire (CoLQ) was used. RESULTS We included 39 survivors of childhood DTC (response rate 83.0%, mean age at diagnosis 15.6 years, and mean age at evaluation 26.1 years). CoLQ scores did not significantly differ between survivors of childhood DTC and the two non-affected groups. CoLQ scores of childhood DTC survivors were compared to scores of other CCS diagnosed at similar ages (n = 76). DTC survivors scored significantly higher on social development than other CCS, but scores were similar on autonomy and psychosexual developmental scales. CONCLUSIONS Survivors of childhood DTC showed similar development on social, autonomy, and psychosexual domains compared to non-affected individuals. Social development was slightly more favorable in DTC survivors than in other CCS, but was similar on autonomy and psychosexual domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marloes Nies
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of Internal Medicine
| | | | - Esther Sulkers
- Department of Wenkebach InstituteSchool of Nursing and Health and Beatrix Children’s Hospital
| | - Gea A Huizinga
- Department of Wenkebach InstituteSchool of Nursing and Health and Beatrix Children’s Hospital
- Department of Pediatric OncologyUniversity of Groningen, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Martha A Grootenhuis
- Psychosocial DepartmentAcademic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Johannes G M Burgerhof
- Department of EpidemiologyUniversity of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Eveline W C M van Dam
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal MedicineVU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bas Havekes
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal MedicineMaastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Marry M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric OncologyRotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eleonora P M Corssmit
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal MedicineLeiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Leontien C M Kremer
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric OncologyAcademic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Romana T Netea-Maier
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal MedicineRadboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Heleen J H van der Pal
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric OncologyUtrecht, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology and Emma Children’s Hospital/Academic Medical CenterAmsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robin P Peeters
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rotterdam Thyroid Center Erasmus Medical CenterRotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - John T M Plukker
- Department of Surgical OncologyUniversity of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Cécile M Ronckers
- Department of Pediatric OncologyAcademic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hanneke M van Santen
- Department of PediatricsUniversity Medical Center Utrecht, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Wim J E Tissing
- Department of Pediatric OncologyUniversity of Groningen, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Gianni Bocca
- Department of Pediatric EndocrinologyUniversity of Groningen, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Thera P Links
- Division of EndocrinologyDepartment of Internal Medicine
- Correspondence should be addressed to T P Links
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6
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Nies M, Klein Hesselink MS, Huizinga GA, Sulkers E, Brouwers AH, Burgerhof JGM, van Dam EWCM, Havekes B, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Corssmit EPM, Kremer LCM, Netea-Maier RT, van der Pal HJH, Peeters RP, Plukker JTM, Ronckers CM, van Santen HM, Tissing WJE, Links TP, Bocca G. Long-Term Quality of Life in Adult Survivors of Pediatric Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:1218-1226. [PMID: 28001468 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-2246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Little is known about long-term quality of life (QoL) of survivors of pediatric differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate generic health-related QoL (HRQoL), fatigue, anxiety, and depression in these survivors compared with matched controls, and to evaluate thyroid cancer-specific HRQoL in survivors only. DESIGN Survivors diagnosed between 1970 and 2013 at age ≤18 years, were included. Exclusion criteria were a follow-up <5 years, attained age <18 years, or diagnosis of DTC as a second malignant neoplasm (SMN). Controls were matched by age, sex, and socioeconomic status. Survivors and controls were asked to complete 3 questionnaires [Short-Form 36 (HRQoL), Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory 20 (fatigue), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (anxiety/depression)]. Survivors completed a thyroid cancer-specific HRQoL questionnaire. RESULTS Sixty-seven survivors and 56 controls. Median age of survivors at evaluation was 34.2 years (range, 18.8 to 61.7). Median follow-up was 17.8 years (range, 5.0 to 44.7). On most QoL subscales, scores of survivors and controls did not differ significantly. However, survivors had more physical problems (P = 0.031), role limitations due to physical problems (P = 0.021), and mental fatigue (P = 0.016) than controls. Some thyroid cancer-specific complaints (e.g., sensory complaints and chilliness) were present in survivors. Unemployment and more extensive disease or treatment characteristics were most frequently associated with worse QoL. CONCLUSIONS Overall, long-term QoL in survivors of pediatric DTC was normal. Survivors experienced mild impairment of QoL in some domains (physical problems, mental fatigue, and various thyroid cancer-specific complaints). Factors possibly affecting QoL need further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gea A Huizinga
- Wenkebach Institute, School of Nursing and Health, Departments of
- Pediatric Oncology and
| | - Esther Sulkers
- Wenkebach Institute, School of Nursing and Health, Departments of
| | | | | | - Eveline W C M van Dam
- Department of Internal Medicine, VU University Medical Center, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bas Havekes
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marry M van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus Medical Center, 3000 CB Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eleonora P M Corssmit
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Romana T Netea-Maier
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Heleen J H van der Pal
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Emma Children's Hospital, and
- Department of Medical Oncology, Academic Medical Center, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robin P Peeters
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rotterdam Thyroid Center, Erasmus Medical Center, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Hanneke M van Santen
- Department of Pediatrics, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3508 GA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Gianni Bocca
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
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7
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van den Berg MH, van Dulmen-den Broeder E, Overbeek A, Ronckers CM, van Dorp W, Kremer LC, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Huizinga GA, Loonen JJ, Versluys AB, Bresters D, Lambalk CB, Kaspers GJL, van Leeuwen FE. Fertility studies in female childhood cancer survivors: selecting appropriate comparison groups. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 29:352-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Revised: 05/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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8
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Huizinga GA, Visser A, Van der Graaf WTA, Hoekstra HJ, Stewart RE, Hoekstra-Weebers JEHM. Family-oriented multilevel study on the psychological functioning of adolescent children having a mother with cancer. Psychooncology 2010; 20:730-7. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.1779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2009] [Revised: 04/08/2010] [Accepted: 04/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Huizinga GA, Visser A, van der Graaf WTA, Hoekstra HJ, Gazendam-Donofrio SM, Hoekstra-Weebers JEHM. Stress response symptoms in adolescents during the first year after a parent’s cancer diagnosis. Support Care Cancer 2009; 18:1421-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-009-0764-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2009] [Accepted: 10/12/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Visser A, Huizinga GA, Hoekstra HJ, van der Graaf WT, Gazendam-Donofrio SM, Hoekstra-Weebers JE. Emotional and behavioral problems in children of parents recently diagnosed with cancer: a longitudinal study. Acta Oncol 2009; 46:67-76. [PMID: 17438707 DOI: 10.1080/02841860600949560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
This study examines the prevalence of problems in children within four months after a parent's cancer diagnosis (T1) and six (T2) and twelve months (T3) afterwards. Sixty-nine ill parents and 57 spouses completed the Child Behavior Checklist for 57 primary school (aged 4-11 years) and 66 adolescent children (aged 12-18 years). Adolescents completed the self-report version. Children's functioning was compared to that of the norm group and a sample of families that were confronted with parental cancer between one to five years before study participation (retrospective study). Most children were reported as having a similar level as or fewer problems than was reported in the norm and retrospective studies. Reported problems decreased with time, but children who initially had more problems remained vulnerable during the year. Fathers and mothers highly agree in their perception of children's behavior, with the exception of adolescent daughters' behavior. Agreement between mothers and adolescent daughters was high, whereas agreement between fathers and adolescent sons and daughters, and mothers and adolescent sons was low to moderate. The outcomes suggest that most children do not experience problems shortly after the parent's diagnosis and were functioning over time on a level equal to or better than that of their peers. Differences in informant's perceptions appear and remain of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemieke Visser
- Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen and University of Groningen, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
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Gazendam-Donofrio SM, Hoekstra HJ, van der Graaf WT, Pras E, Visser A, Huizinga GA, Hoekstra-Weebers JE. Quality of life of parents with children living at home: when one parent has cancer. Support Care Cancer 2008; 16:133-41. [PMID: 17609990 PMCID: PMC2206248 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-007-0299-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2007] [Accepted: 06/11/2007] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
GOALS OF WORK This study examined the quality of life (QoL) of cancer patients diagnosed 1-5 years previously and their spouses, with children 4-18 years living at home. Relationships between parents' QoL and the children's functioning were explored. PATIENTS AND METHODS 166 cancer patients and their spouses provided information on their QoL (RAND-36) and on their children's functioning (Child Behavior Checklist). MAIN RESULTS Male and female patients scored similarly to a norm population on five domains. Patients' QoL was clinically relevantly and/or statistically lower on social functioning, role limitations because of physical problems, and vitality than the norm. Male spouses' QoL was comparable to the norm. However, female spouses reported better physical functioning but more social problems. QoL varied according to type of cancer, treatment intensity, and recurrence. Using the QoL composite scores, a significant relationship was found between patients' psychosocial and physical functioning and spouses' psychosocial functioning. Patients' psychosocial functioning correlated moderately strongly to weakly with their reports of their younger children's and adolescents' functioning; physical functioning correlated only weakly with adolescents' functioning. The patients' functioning related weakly to moderately strongly to adolescents' self-reports of functioning. Spouses' psychosocial functioning weakly related to their and adolescents' reports of adolescents' functioning. CONCLUSIONS Cancer patients' QoL 1-5 years after diagnosis was decreased in three of eight domains; their spouses seem to be doing well. Parents' physical and psychosocial functioning related weakly to moderately strongly to their children's functioning, depending on the child's age and information source. The patients' functioning related more strongly to the children's functioning than the spouses' did.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey M. Gazendam-Donofrio
- Wenckebach Institute, University Medical Center Groningen, P.O. Box 30001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harald J. Hoekstra
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Elizabeth Pras
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Annemieke Visser
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gea A. Huizinga
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Josette E.H.M. Hoekstra-Weebers
- Wenckebach Institute, University Medical Center Groningen, P.O. Box 30001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Comprehensive Cancer Center North-Netherlands, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Visser A, Huizinga GA, Hoekstra HJ, van der Graaf WTA, Hoekstra-Weebers JEHM. Temperament as a predictor of internalising and externalising problems in adolescent children of parents diagnosed with cancer. Support Care Cancer 2006; 15:395-403. [PMID: 16944219 PMCID: PMC2092409 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-006-0117-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2006] [Accepted: 06/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study examined the relationship between temperament and internalising and externalising problems among children of parents diagnosed with cancer, beyond the effects of socio-demographics, illness-related variables and life events. Materials and methods Three hundred and forty adolescent children and their 212 parents diagnosed with cancer participated. Children and parents completed the Youth Self Report and the Child Behaviour Checklist, respectively. Children completed also the Early Adolescent Temperament Questionnaire. Main results Daughters of parents with cancer were reported as having more internalising problems than their counterparts did. Prevalence of problems did not depend on children’s and parents’ age or educational level. Recurrent disease and number of life events experienced by children and parents affected the problems reported. The most important temperament dimensions in the prediction of internalising problems in children were shyness and fear/worry, to a lesser extent, frustration and perceptual sensitivity (children only) and lower scores on pleasure intensity (parents only). Externalising problems were associated with effortful control and in children’s reports with frustration. Temperament seemed to be a more important predictor of problems reported by children than parents. Conclusion Findings suggest that temperament is useful in determining the relative vulnerability of children of parents who have been diagnosed with cancer. Social workers may help parents to recognise individual differences between children and to support children by using techniques that are compatible with the temperament of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemieke Visser
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Groningen and University Medical Centre Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gea A. Huizinga
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Groningen and University Medical Centre Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Harald J. Hoekstra
- Department of Surgical Oncology, University of Groningen and University Medical Centre Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Winette T. A. van der Graaf
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen and University Medical Centre Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Josette E. H. M. Hoekstra-Weebers
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Groningen and University Medical Centre Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychosocial Services, University of Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
- Psychosocial Services, University Medical Center Groningen, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
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Visser A, Huizinga GA, Hoekstra HJ, van der Graaf WTA, Klip EC, Pras E, Hoekstra-Weebers JEHM. Emotional and behavioural functioning of children of a parent diagnosed with cancer: a cross-informant perspective. Psychooncology 2006; 14:746-58. [PMID: 15744787 DOI: 10.1002/pon.902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates emotional and behavioural problems in children of parents diagnosed with cancer and examines the relationship with demographic and illness-related variables. Furthermore, agreement and differences between informants regarding child's functioning were examined. Members of 186 families in which a parent had been diagnosed with cancer participated. More emotional problems were reported for latency-aged sons (ill parents) and adolescent daughters (ill parents; self-reports), whereas also better functioning was reported in adolescent children (spouses), compared to the norm group. Age and gender-effects were found: latency-aged sons were perceived as having more emotional problems than adolescent sons (ill parents); adolescent daughters as having more emotional and behavioural problems than adolescent sons (ill parents; self-reports). Results indicated a higher prevalence of problems when the father was ill than when the mother was (spouses and self-reports). The treatment intensity affected adolescent daughter's functioning (spouses), whereas adolescent son's functioning was affected by relapsed disease (self-reports). Adolescents and mothers perceived comparable levels of problems, but fathers perceived problems in children to be less prevalent. Findings suggest that adolescent daughters and latency-aged sons are at risk for emotional problems following the diagnosis of cancer in a parent. The perception of child's functioning and potential influencing variables varied according to informant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemieke Visser
- Department of Health Psychology, Groningen University Medical Centre, The Netherlands
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The vulnerability of children when a parent is diagnosed with cancer may depend on a variety of variables. The current study examined the impact of characteristics of 180 parents diagnosed with cancer, along with 145 spouses, on the prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems in children. METHODS Ill parents provided information on sociodemographics and illness-related variables and on the prevalence of problems in children by using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Both parents completed the two subscales that measure physical functioning and mental health of the RAND-36. RESULTS The family situation (single parents, no or few siblings, oldest child) was one of the most important predictors of reported problems in primary school children, whereas adolescents were reported as having more problems when parents experienced treatment complications. A decrease in ill parents' physical functioning affected primary school daughters and adolescents, and both age groups were affected by the mental health of ill parents. Problems of ill fathers did not have a different impact on children from those of ill mothers. Spouses' physical limitations were indicative for problems in primary school children, whereas a worsening parental mental health was indicative for problems in adolescents. CONCLUSIONS Findings illustrated that parents' characteristics must be taken into account when assessing vulnerability of children in this situation. Which variables particularly heighten the risk for problems depend on children's ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemieke Visser
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands
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Huizinga GA, Visser A, van der Graaf WTA, Hoekstra HJ, Hoekstra-Weebers JEHM. The quality of communication between parents and adolescent children in the case of parental cancer. Ann Oncol 2005; 16:1956-61. [PMID: 16143592 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdi395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was designed to investigate: (i) parent-adolescent communication in families of cancer patients; (ii) relationships between parent-adolescent communication and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in adolescent children; and (iii) associations between parents' illness characteristics and parent-adolescent communication. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 212 adolescents completed the Impact of Event Scale and Parent-Adolescent Communication Scale. RESULTS Adolescents communicated less openly with mothers with cancer than controls with mothers; this was the only significant difference with the reference group. Daughters communicated more openly with ill parents than with healthy parents. More open communication with healthy parents was related to fewer PTSS in daughters. More problem communication with both parents was related to more PTSS in both sons and daughters. Sons reported more problems in communication with ill parents in case of more intensive treatment or recurrent disease. Daughters experienced less open communication with both parents when ill parents received more intensive treatment. Time since diagnosis was not related to parent-adolescent communication. Multivariate analyses showed that communication patterns specifically affected PTSS of daughters. Problem communication with the healthy parent was the strongest predictor of intrusion while problem communication with the ill parents was the strongest predictor of avoidance. CONCLUSIONS Parent-adolescent communication in families of cancer patients differs little from that in families not confronted with parental cancer. Problem communication outweighed lack of openness with respect to development of PTSS. Recurrent disease and intensive treatment regimens affected parent-adolescent communication negatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Huizinga
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
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Huizinga GA, Visser A, van der Graaf WTA, Hoekstra HJ, Klip EC, Pras E, Hoekstra-Weebers JEHM. Stress response symptoms in adolescent and young adult children of parents diagnosed with cancer. Eur J Cancer 2005; 41:288-95. [PMID: 15661555 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2004.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2004] [Revised: 08/27/2004] [Accepted: 10/08/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess stress response symptoms in children of parents diagnosed with cancer 1-5 year prior to study entry. The impact of event scale was used to measure stress response symptoms in terms of intrusion and avoidance; the youth self-report assessed emotional and behavioural functioning; the state-trait anxiety inventory for children measured trait-anxiety. Participants included 220 adolescents (aged 11-18 years) and 64 young adults (aged 19-23 years) from 169 families. Twenty-one percent of the sons and 35% of the daughters reported clinically elevated stress response symptoms. Daughters, particularly those whose mothers were ill, reported significantly more intrusion and avoidance than did sons. Intrusion among daughters was positively related to age. Stress response symptoms in both sons and daughters were significantly associated with trait anxiety, but not with intensity of treatment or time since diagnosis. Daughters whose parents suffered from recurrent illness reported more symptoms than did daughters whose parents had a primary disease. Children (daughters in particular) with clinically elevated stress response symptoms reported significantly more problems of internalising and cognition than did their norm group peers. One-fifth of the sons and more than one-third of the daughters expressed clinically elevated stress response symptoms. These children also reported internalising and cognitive problems. Daughters appeared to be more at risk than sons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gea A Huizinga
- Department of Health Psychology, Groningen University Medical Centre, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
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Visser A, Huizinga GA, van der Graaf WTA, Hoekstra HJ, Hoekstra-Weebers JEHM. The impact of parental cancer on children and the family: a review of the literature. Cancer Treat Rev 2004; 30:683-94. [PMID: 15541578 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2004.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 244] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Children of cancer patients may go through a distressing time. The aim of this review was to survey present knowledge on the impact of parental cancer on children and the family. DESIGN Studies published between January 1980 and March 2004 addressing emotional, social, behavioural, cognitive and physical functioning of children of a parent diagnosed with cancer, as well as the association with child, parental and familial variables were reviewed. RESULTS Fifty-two studies were found. Emotional problems in school-aged children (11 years) were reported in several qualitative studies, but in only one quantitative study. Quantitative and qualitative studies reported anxiety and depression in adolescents (12 years), in particular in adolescent daughters of ill mothers. Quantitative studies generally showed no behavioural and social problems in school-aged children and adolescents. One quantitative study found physical complaints in school-aged children. However, qualitative studies revealed behavioural problems in school-aged children and also described restrictions in cognitive and physical functioning in children of all ages. The most consistent variables related to child functioning appeared to be parental psychological functioning, marital satisfaction and family communication. Intervention studies directed to the needs of children and their families reported positive effects. CONCLUSION While quantitative studies reported especially disturbed emotional functioning, qualitative studies reported problems in all domains of child functioning. Well-designed studies are needed to gain more insight into the psychosocial functioning of children of cancer patients in order to develop tailored care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemieke Visser
- Department of Health Psychology (Psychosocial Services), Groningen University Hospital, P.O. Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
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Huizinga GA, van der Graaf WTA, Visser A, Dijkstra JS, Hoekstra-Weebers JEHM. Psychosocial consequences for children of a parent with cancer: a pilot study. Cancer Nurs 2003; 26:195-202. [PMID: 12832952 DOI: 10.1097/00002820-200306000-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
When cancer is diagnosed in a parent, this may also have consequences for the children. The purpose of this pilot study was to gain more insight into the psychosocial consequences for children of a parent with cancer, from the perspective of both the children and their parents. For this study, 14 families participated in semistructured interviews and completed standardized questionnaires. Interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using content analysis techniques. No significant difference was found in behavioral and emotional problems between the children in these families and the normative sample. However, parents reported problems on a borderline and clinically elevated level in one third of the children, and three of seven children self-reported problems on these levels. The interview results showed that parents reported (temporary) behavioral problems in most children during the acute stage of their parents' illness. Other problems, such as anxiety, sleeping disorders, and compulsive behavior, persisted for longer. Parents reported that their children had more problems than the children themselves reported. This finding was not supported by the quantitative analysis. The results from the Child Behavior Checklist and the Dutch version of the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales showed that children of families with poor family functioning were more vulnerable. In particular, extremely high adaptation (chaotic) and extremely low family cohesion (disengaged) seemed related to the prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems in these children. Absence of home healthcare was an additional burden for adolescent children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gea A Huizinga
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Hospital Groningen, PO Box 30.001, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Abstract
The present study was performed to gain insight into the decision-making process that patients go through when asked to participate in a cancer clinical trial. Fourteen cancer patients entered a pilot study concerning decision making. They were interviewed in a semistructured manner after consenting or refusing to participate in a randomized phase III clinical trial concerning chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Results from this study showed that patients, after receiving information from the medical oncologist, oncology nurse, or both, decide about participation instantaneously. This means that time for procedural soundness has not been used, which raises questions about the normative quality of the decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A Huizinga
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands
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