Psychosocial Well-being Of Patients Research Articles

Evaluating the Impact of Provincial Implementation of Screening for Distress on Quality of Life, Symptom Reports, and Psychosocial Well-Being in Patients With Cancer.

Although a number of accreditation agencies and professional societies recommend routine screening for distress (SFD) for patients with cancer, it has been integrated very slowly into clinical practice. This evaluation investigated the impact of a large-scale SFD intervention on patients' quality of life, symptom reports, and psychosocial well-being. The SFD intervention involved (1) completion of the SFD tool by patients, (2) discussion between patient and provider about the concerns indicated, and (3) provision of appropriate assessments/interventions based on priority concerns. This quality improvement work included a pre-evaluation and postevaluation of the impact of implementation on patients' well-being. Patients in cohort 1 (N=740) were surveyed before implementation, whereas patients in cohort 2 (N=534) were surveyed 10 months after the implementation at 17 clinics province-wide. As part of the implementation, providers received training on assessing and responding to patient priority concerns with the standardized tool. No differences were seen in total score of quality of life between the cohorts. Fewer patients in cohort 2 than in cohort 1 reported health problems, including tiredness, drowsiness, poor appetite, nausea, anxiety, and poor well-being. Similarly, significantly fewer patients in cohort 2 endorsed problems relating to emotional, practical, informational, spiritual, social, and physical aspects of well-being. Results showed significantly improved psychological and physical symptoms and psychosocial well-being after routine SFD was implemented, suggesting that a large-scale SFD intervention is beneficial for patients when it is integrated into existing clinical practice and community resources.

QoL in Southtyrol T1D Pediatric Patients Psycho-social Well-being, Quality of Life, Health Status and Family Conflicts in a South-tyrolean Group of Pediatric Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type I

QoL in Southtyrol T1D Pediatric Patients Psycho-social Well-being, Quality of Life, Health Status and Family Conflicts in a South-tyrolean Group of Pediatric Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type I

Psychological Intervention Effects of Group Music Therapy on Patients with Parkinson's Disease

Music therapy is a non-pharmacological treatment of the behavioral and psychological symptoms. This study was conducted to contribute to the rehabilitation of patients with idiopathic Parkinson``s disease in the areas of functionality, emotionality and sociability. Methods: The study included 35 participants, aged between 52 and 77 years, who were diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (IPD) and reported suffering from depression, chronic illness anticipated stigma, and worrying about quality of life . The patients were recruited from the department of outpatient neurology at School of Medicine, D University in B Metropolitan City. Group music therapy was performed for nine weeks. The results were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA .Results: In terms of stigma, there were significant differences between two groups and time (p<.05). Analysis of the interaction between time and service method revealed significant differences (p<.05). Between time, and the interaction between time and service method revealed significant differences in terms of quality of life (p<.05). Conclusion: The results suggest that group music therapy will be effective on the psychosocial well-being of patients with Parkinson’s disease living in assisted and independent living communities.

Hope, emotion regulation, and psychosocial well-being in patients newly diagnosed with cancer.

Patients newly diagnosed with cancer are often confronted with feelings of uncertainty and life threat. A significant proportion may report impairments in psychosocial well-being. Previous studies examining protective psychological factors such as hope and emotion regulation (ER) have yet to investigate these processes concurrently within a common self-regulation framework and/or focus on newly diagnosed patients. The present study aimed to examine how hope and ER may relate to psychosocial outcomes of patients newly diagnosed with cancer. The present study used a cross-sectional design with self-report questionnaires. Participants were newly diagnosed patients (N = 101) recruited from three cancer therapy clinics in a hospital. Patients completed measures of hope, ER (cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression), and psychosocial well-being (life satisfaction and negative affectivity). Findings showed that (1) hope and reappraisal, but not suppression, were associated with well-being and (2) the interaction between hope and reappraisal was associated with well-being; reappraisal was not associated with well-being in high hope patients, while high reappraisal was associated with better well-being in low hope patients. Individual differences in hope and reappraisal appeared to be associated with psychosocial outcomes in newly diagnosed cancer patients. Hopeful thinking appeared to benefit patients' psychosocial well-being. In addition, an interaction effect between hope and reappraisal suggested that reappraisal as an ER strategy may be particularly adaptive for patients with low hope.

Body image and quality of life of breast cancer patients: influence of timing and stage of breast reconstruction

The process of cancer-related breast reconstruction is typically multi-staged and can take months to years to complete, yet few studies have examined patient psychosocial well-being during the reconstruction process. We investigated the effects of reconstruction timing and reconstruction stage on body image and quality of life at specific time points during the breast reconstruction process. In this cross-sectional study, 216 patients were grouped into four reconstructive stages: pre-reconstruction, completed stage 1, completed stage 2, and final stages. Multiple regression analyses examined the roles of reconstruction timing (immediate vs delayed reconstruction) and reconstruction stage as well as their interaction in predicting body image and quality of life, controlling for patient age, BMI, type of reconstruction, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and major complication(s). A difference in pattern of body image was observed across the reconstructive stages, with those receiving delayed reconstruction showing significant decrease in body image dissatisfaction compared with those with immediate reconstruction. At pre-reconstruction, patients awaiting delayed reconstruction reported significantly lower social well-being compared with those awaiting immediate reconstruction. Reconstruction stage predicted emotional well-being, with higher emotional well-being observed in those who had commenced reconstruction. Timing and stage of reconstruction are important to consider when examining psychosocial outcomes of breast cancer patients undergoing reconstruction. Those waiting to initiate delayed reconstruction appear at particular risk for body image, emotional, and social distress. Our findings have implications for delivery of psychosocial treatment to maximize body image and quality of life of patients undergoing cancer-related breast reconstruction.Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

In focus: The everyday lives of families of adult individuals with epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a multifaceted chronic neurological disorder with diverse effects on a patient's psychosocial well-being. The impact on quality of life has been well documented, and many studies have addressed the detrimental influences epilepsy has on an individual. However, the emotional impact and the influence of the condition on family members have not been well studied. Furthermore, the majority of the studies on this topic have been confined to childhood epilepsy, and there is only scarce literature that discusses the effects on family members caring for adult patients. The purpose of this literature review was to examine the influence of adult epilepsy on the psychological and social well-being of individual family members. We explored the psychological and physical well-being, satisfaction with social circumstances, and perceived level of support in families of adult patients with intractable epilepsy. The paper also suggests best practices on how to improve the family's quality of life, as well as future directions for research. Superior medical care and a positive family support system are important conditions that can help adult individuals with epilepsy best deal with their condition.

Do patients with long-term side effects of cancer treatment benefit from general practitioner support? A literature review.

Alongside specialist cancer clinics, general practitioners have an important role in cancer patients' follow-up care, yet no literature summarises the nature, extent and impact of their involvement. This paper addresses this issue through a review of the literature. Studies were sourced from six academic databases - AustHealth (n = 202), CINAHL (n = 500), the Cochrane Library (reviews and trials; n = 200), Embase (n = 368), PHCRIS (n = 132) and PubMed/Medline (n = 410). Studies that focused on interventions designed for patients receiving follow-up care and reported cancer care provided by a general practitioner delivered alongside specialist care were reviewed. A total of 19 papers were identified as relevant for this review (3 randomised control trials; 4 cross-sectional, 5 cohort and 3 qualitative studies, and 3 systematic reviews). The reviewed studies indicated that providing general practitioner-led supportive interventions for post-treatment care of cancer patients is feasible and acceptable to patients. General practitioner involvement resulted in improved physical and psychosocial well-being of patients and continuity of care, especially for patients with concomitant health conditions. Involving general practitioners in post-treatment cancer care is beneficial to patients. However, proactive initiatives that encourage and facilitate patients to consult their general practitioner about their needs or symptoms of recurrence should be considered.

IGF-1 levels or medical treatment have no impact on psychosocial well-being of patients with acromegaly – results of a cross-sectional single-center survey

Objective: Normalization of serum IGF-1 by successful treatment of acromegaly can return life expectancy back to normal. Yet, control of GH/IGF-1 excess may not necessarily improve quality of life (QoL), which remains reduced compared to the general population. Hence, it was the aim of the present study to investigate possible differences in QoL and psychosocial well-being with regard to IGF-1 level and drug treatment and to investigate patients' subjective, most pressing disease burden.

Extent of podoconiosis-related stigma in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

Studies have indicated that social stigma related to podoconiosis (endemic non-filarial elephantiasis) has a major impact on the psychosocial wellbeing of patients. However, little effort has been made so far to quantify the level of both felt and enacted stigma in a range of domains of life. We used a recently developed podoconiosis stigma assessment scale to measure levels of stigma as recalled over the previous 12 months. One hundred and fifty patients with podoconiosis rated the levels of stigma they perceived and experienced in ‘interpersonal interactions’, ‘major life areas’ and ‘community, social and civic life’. High levels of stigma were observed on both felt and enacted stigma scales. The overall average stigma score was 40.7 (range 0 to 96). Enacted stigma was scored higher than felt stigma (mean score 21.2 vs. 19.5, respectively). The mean enacted stigma score was higher in ‘major life areas’, and ‘community, social and civic life’ than ‘interpersonal interactions’, while felt stigma was experienced most at the interpersonal level. Over half of patients reported that they had considered suicide in response to discrimination and prejudice, particularly in interpersonal interactions. Forced divorce, dissolution of marriage plan, insults and exclusion at social events were some of the most commonly mentioned forms of enacted stigma reported by affected individuals. Scores for overall level of stigma and enacted stigma increased significantly with stage of podoconiosis while the association observed in relation to felt stigma was only marginally significant (p = 0.085). Appropriate stigma reduction strategies must be identified and implemented in communities highly endemic for podoconiosis.

Quality of life improves after minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum.

Pectus excavatum is the most common chest wall deformity. This deformity may cause physical limitations and psychosocial problems. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum on the quality of life. This study included 88 patients, aged 18.44 ± 3.93 years (85.2% male), who underwent minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum; 40.9% had an associated anomaly or disease, and 17.0% had scoliosis. The patients and their parents completed the patient and parent forms of the Nuss questionnaire modified for adults preoperatively and 6 months after the operation. The patients' median Nuss score increased from 31 (interquartile range 31-35) preoperatively to 43 (interquartile range 43-46) at 6 months after the operation (p = 0.000). The parents' preoperative score of 33 (interquartile range 29-36) increased to 38 (interquartile range 34-41; p = 0.000). Improvements in the physical and psychosocial component scores of the Nuss questionnaire were also significant in the patient (p = 0.000, p = 0.000, respectively) and parent forms (p = 0.005, p = 0.000, respectively). Minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum significantly improved the physical and psychosocial wellbeing of patients. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine the long-term changes related to quality of life.

Compositional, structural and mechanical comparisons of normal enamel and hypomaturation enamel

Hypomaturation amelogenesis imperfecta is a hereditary disorder of the enamel that severely influences the function, aesthetics and psychosocial well-being of patients. In this study, we performed a thorough comparison of normal and hypomaturation enamel through a series of systematical tests on human permanent molars to understand the biomineralization process during pathological amelogenesis. The results of microcomputed tomography, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, Raman spectroscopy, microzone X-ray diffraction, thermal gravimetric analysis, energy diffraction spectrum and Vickers microhardness testing together show dramatic contrasts between hypomaturation enamel and normal enamel in terms of their hierarchical structures, spectral features, crystallographic characteristics, thermodynamic behavior, mineral distribution and mechanical property. Our current study highlights the importance of the organic matrix during the amelogenesis process. It is found that the retention of the organic matrix will influence the quantity, quality and distribution of mineral crystals, which will further demolish the hierarchical architecture of the enamel and affect the related mechanical property. In addition, the high carbonate content in hypomaturation enamel influences the crystallinity, crystal size and solubility of hydroxyapatite crystals. These results deepen our understanding of hypomaturation enamel biomineralization during amelogenesis, explain the clinical manifestations of hypomaturation enamel, provide fundamental evidence to help dentists choose optimal therapeutic strategies and lead to improved biofabrication and gene therapies.

OP0086-HPR A Self-Monitoring and Patient-Initiated Follow-Up Service for Patients with Rheumatoid or Psoriatic Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundPatient-initiated services in rheumatology have been found to be cost-saving without compromising the clinical or psychosocial well-being of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Self-monitoring is a technique used in many other...

What's in this issue?

What's in this issue?

Psychosocial Wellbeing of Patients Diagnosed with Coronary Artery Disease

Psychological and social wellbeing of patients diagnosed with coronary heart disease is an important component in patients’ recovery. The purpose of this study is to explore the psychological and social factors among individuals diagnosed with coronary artery disease. Methods: 164 patients diagnosed with CHD filled and returned a self administered. Data were collected in regard to stress, depression, perceived social support, and coping. Results: The analysis showed that patients who have moderate level of stress, perceived social support, mild level of depression, have more tendencies to use effective coping strategies. Also the analysis showed that cope, psychological distress, and perceived social support were significant predictors of high level of depression (F = 5.2, p < .001), and that perceived social support from others was the most significant protective factors against depression (F =12.7, p < .001). Conclusion: Mental health care providers need to consider their patients’ psychological wellbeing and sources of social support as part of their routine care and assessment.

Psychosocial impact of onychomycosis: a review

Onychomycosis (tinea unguium) is the most common nail disorder. Nonetheless, it requires lengthy, often ineffective treatments, and recurrence is frequent. Predominantly a disease of the elderly, onychomycosis is becoming more and more common. Besides interfering with normal nail function, fungal nail infections are relatively painful, unsightly in appearance, disrupt daily activities, and have a negative psychosocial connotation. Commonly reported psychosocial factors are embarrassment, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal. Yet advances in therapy have been achieved since these reports were made, and many of these treatment options have proven to be more effective. Thus, the impact of these advances on psychosocial well-being of patients with onychomycosis is worth analyzing. The objective of this paper is to review studies that investigated the psychosocial impact of onychomycosis on a variety of patient populations. An alternative, total patient approach that dermatologists and general practitioners alike could use to incorporate patients' psychosocial well-being into the holistic management of onychomycosis will also be discussed.

FRI0482-HPR Clinical tools association in knee osteoarthritis patients. Objective measures vs subjective measures

BackgroundKnee osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common disease of joints in older adults around the world. It is a chronic condition associated with pain and reduction in physical function, leading...

Lifting the Silver Flakes: The Pathogenesis and Management of Chronic Plaque Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition in which patients suffer from mild to chronic plaque skin plaques. The disease manifests through an excessive inflammatory response in the skin due to complex interactions between different genetic and environmental factors. Psoriasis can affect the physical, emotional, and psychosocial well-being of patients, and currently there is no cure with treatments focusing primarily on the use of anti-inflammatory agents to control disease symptoms. Traditional anti-inflammatory agents can cause immunosuppression and adverse systemic effects. Further understanding of the disease has led to current areas of research aiming at the development of selective molecular targets to suppress the pathogenic immune responses.

Effects of psychoeducational interventions on sexual functioning, quality of life and psychosocial well-being in patients with gynaecological cancer: a systematic review

Effects of psychoeducational interventions on sexual functioning, quality of life and psychosocial well-being in patients with gynaecological cancer: a systematic review

Effects of psychoeducational interventions on sexual functioning, quality of life and psychosocial well-being in patients with gynaecological cancer: a systematic review

Effects of psychoeducational interventions on sexual functioning, quality of life and psychosocial well-being in patients with gynaecological cancer: a systematic review

Validation of a Specific Health-related Quality of Life Instrument in a Large Cohort of Patients with Psoriasis: The QualiPso Questionnaire

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a standardized tool designed to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a large cohort of French patients with psoriasis, the QualiPso Questionnaire. A draft questionnaire was developed based on a literature review, followed by one-to-one interviews of 50 patients with psoriasis conducted by trained psychologists. The interview transcripts were analysed, after which 56 items were retained and validated in a cohort of 569 patients. Four QualiPso subscales were derived from factor analysis. The first factor encompasses disturbances of social life, a key factor in HRQoL among psoriasis patients (Cronbach's alpha coefficient: α=0.948). The second factor assesses the impact of psoriasis on mental health (α=0.932). The third factor reflects concerns related to treatment outcomes (α=0.873), and the fourth factor is related to skin symptoms (α=0.772). The subscales are related but distinct, accounting for 60% of the common variance. In conclusion, the QualiPso questionnaire provides a reliable and valid measure of a patient's psychosocial well-being in relation to psoriasis. It also measures the impact of concerns related to treatment outcomes and skin symptoms, which have not been addressed previously by HRQoL research on psoriasis.