Couples' skills training intervention in young breast cancer patients with fear of cancer recurrence: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

PurposeThis study adapted the Chinese version of the Couple Skills Training intervention program to couples of young breast cancer patients in China and investigated its effects on fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), cancer-related communication, and level of hope among the couples. MethodsNinety young breast cancer patients and their spouses were recruited and randomly assigned to the intervention group (45 couples) and the control group (45 couples). Couples in the intervention group received skills training and were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and 3 months post-intervention to measure outcomes. Differences in scores between the two groups were analyzed using two-sample t-tests and generalized estimating equations (GEE) controlling for demographic and health-related variables. ResultsCouples' skills training intervention effectively reduced FCR and improved cancer-related communication in young breast cancer patients compared to the control group (both p < 0.001). Spouses’ expectations significantly increased (p < 0.001). At 3 months post-intervention, couples in the intervention group showed significant improvements in FCR, cancer-related communication, and hope (all p < 0.001). ConclusionCouples’ skills training interventions are beneficial for helping young breast cancer patients cope with FCR. Couples-based interventions play a crucial role in addressing FCR in these patients and their spouses. Future research should consider larger samples and longer follow-up periods to enhance intervention effectiveness. Clinical trial center registration numberThis study has also been registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No: ChiCTR2200063327).