P2.08-012 Evaluation of Lung Cancer Support Group Participation: Preliminary Results: Topic: Other

Abstract

In-person support group attendance can address the greater unmet physical and emotional needs and high rates of distress experienced by those diagnosed with lung cancer. However, survivors tend to prefer lung cancer-specific groups, which can be challenging to start and maintain. As a result, there are <100 groups currently active in the US, inadequate to serve the 224,000 people diagnosed annually. The National Lung Cancer Support Group Network was established in 2015 to strengthen existing groups and form seven new groups in areas of high need. This study evaluates the psychosocial impact and benefits of group participation of the new lung cancer support groups. Using a pre/post-test design, consenting participants completed a baseline questionnaire including the CSS-15 Distress screening tool, Positive Affect Scale and Loneliness Scale prior to joining the group. After six months of attendance, follow-up was completed. The follow-up questionnaire included the CSS-15 Distress screening tool, Positive Affect and Loneliness scales and additional self-efficacy measures and 14 questions about group helpfulness. These are preliminary results from the first group at Gilda’s Club Nashville. Demographics: At baseline, the participants (N=20) were mostly patients or survivors (68%), white (80%), female (64%) with an average age of 54.8. More than half reported being diagnosed at Stage IV. All were at risk for depression upon enrollment. Ten participants remained and completed the 6 month follow-up survey. Psychosocial outcomes: There was a significant decrease in overall distress (p=0.0067) following group participation but no change in positive affect or loneliness. Fewer participants reported life disruptions and feeling nervous or afraid at post-test. Eight of the follow-up participants (80%) remained at risk for depression. Group helpfulness: Eighty percent strongly agreed that after attending the group, they were better able to ask questions of their healthcare team, make treatment decisions and access information and resources. Participants felt more interested and determined after attending the group. Feelings of being isolated remained unchanged. All participants indicated that they would recommend this group to others and agreed that participation resulted in having a sense of belonging, acceptance and development of new friendships. Preliminary results show potential psychosocial improvements related to decreased distress, increased self-efficacy and positive benefits from group participation. Further data from this and the additional six groups will add statistical power to the findings. Study findings may provide evidence that participating in lung-cancer specific groups can be helpful in improving psychosocial outcomes.