Social Support In Cancer Patients Research Articles

Social support for cancer patients and alcohol and tobacco use: an integrative review

Objective: to assess the knowledge about social support and mental health of people diagnosed with cancer, smokers, and alcohol users, and the implications of these behaviors for cancer treatment. Methods: integrative review using the following databases: CINAHL, Embase, LILACS, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, without restriction of period and language. The data was analyzed descriptively. Results: 3,010 documents were identified, 14 studies were eligible. The different types of social support received by people with cancer and a history of alcohol and tobacco use stand out: emotional (n=5), informational (n=4), family and material (n=2 each), religious, sexual-affective partner, tangible, affective, positive social interaction, instrumental and social companionship (n=1 each). Conclusion: targeted social support that is sensitive to the particularities of the history of substance use can significantly improve the way people cope with the disease and treatment. Contributions to practice: providing integrated social support for this population is essential for thinking about quality of life throughout treatment and recovery.

Association of social determinant of health (SDOH) with clinical outcomes in patients with cancer: Opioid use, emergency admission, anxiety, depression, and length of hospital stays.

e23072 Background: As cancer patients are overburdened by disease, treatment, access to care, and other demographic factors, the obstacles become increasingly significant with SDOH. Patients hospitalized in the United States in 2017 for the treatment of prostate (PC), breast (BC), and lung (LC) cancer were evaluated to characterize further and contrast variations between SDOH and clinical outcomes. Methods: We utilized the generalized linear models to assess the association between homelessness and problem-related living alone (PrbLA) and clinical outcomes–– opioid abuse/long-term use, anxiety and depression, and burden of illness (length of stay) while controlling for patients’ characteristics. Results: In the study among PC, there were 425 homeless, 355 PrbLA; BC, 320 homeless and 225 PrbLA; LC, 1345 homeless and 820 PrbLA. In the adjusted analysis, PC homelessness was significantly associated with anxiety and depression (5.15, 95%CI: 3.17-8.35); emergency admission (5.57; 95%CI: 2.63-11.82); opioid abuse (3.75,95%CI: 1.27-11.13) and longer LOS, unadjusted (2.49; 95%CI: 1.58-3.92), adjusted analysis (1.96; 95%CI: 1.03-3.74). These findings were comparable in the BC and LC cohorts. Further in the adjusted analysis, PC patients with PrbLA were associated with higher combined anxiety and depression, adjusted (2.7, 95%CI: 1.64-4.46); emergency admission, adjusted (5.86; 95%CI: 2.66-12.91); opioid long-term use, adjusted (3.74,95%CI: 1.02-6.88) and longer LOS, adjusted analysis (1.44; 95%CI: 1.11-1.88). These findings were comparable in the BC cohort. In the LC cohort, when stratified to females, the PrbLA was associated with longer LOS (1.29; 95%CI: 1.02-1.63). In all cancer cohorts, when compared to Whites, SDOH was associated with poor outcomes––Blacks had a higher burden of illness. And when compared to Whites, Hispanics, Asians, and Others were associated with lesser opioid abuse among all cancer cohorts with homelessness. Conclusions: According to this study, PC, BC, and LC patients with poor SDOH presented with the worst clinical outcomes, including higher opioid abuse, emergency admission, anxiety and depression, and longer LOS in the hospital. The findings of this study highlight a vacuum in the literature, and the recommendations stress the value of social support for cancer patients in achieving a better prognosis and quality of life.

Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support for Cancer Patients in Indonesia

The social support is increasingly accepted as an important factor that influences the wellness of a human being, particularly people with chronic diseases. This study translates and validates the quantitative questionnaire that has been developed and has been widely accepted across cultures, namely the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). The study was initially performed by translating the original questionnaire using forward and backward translation methods. Thirty cancer patients from Margono public hospital Purwokerto, Indonesia were conveniently included to evaluate the transleted questionmaire’s cconvergent, discriminant validity. Furthermore, 45 cancer patients were included in the main study which evaluate the level of social support among cancer patients. According to factor analysis, Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin Measure of Sampling Adequacy showed that the results is valid (0.668) while the Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity also showed that the number of samples were adequate (0.668) and eligible for factor analysis. The Measures of Sampling adequacy from each question was considerably higher than 0.5 and therefore there were no translated question that has to be removed in the analysis. There were 3 out of 12 factors that was included with the total variance of 81.166%. The Pearson’s correlation and Cronbach Alpha tests showed that discriminant validity and reliability test of the translated questionnaire were valid (>0.400) and reliable (>0.700) questionnaire. The translated version of the MSPSS was considerably a valid and reliable questionnaire to evaluate the level of social support for cancer patients in Indonesia.

Предикторы субъективного ощущения социальной поддержки у онкологических больных на примере заболеваний репродуктивной системы

Introduction. The relevance of the study of predictors of subjective feeling of social support in cancer patients lies in the prevalence and social significance of this disease with a pronounced vital threat. Theoretical analysis. The concept of “disease situation” is ambiguous, it includes difficulties associated with the course of the disease, its social consequences, and the social support available to patients as a possible resource. This implies the need to consider this resource and the factors of its effectiveness. Empirical analysis. In this article, using the example of patients with oncological diseases of the reproductive system, the connection is established between the subjective feeling of social support, characteristics of self-attitude, adaptation strategies of healthy and sick women. Conclusion. For this group of women, the high importance of cooperation with the social environment, the proximity of emotional contacts, the desire to rely on the resources of others and be needed for them was revealed. The main predictors of the subjective feeling of social support for sick women were: acceptance of the situation and acceptance of themselves in this situation. Healthy women are more likely to rely on their own activity and responsibility. The results obtained indicate a pronounced mobilization of the personality of sick women. This also allows them to build relationships with loved ones.

Psychometric Properties of the Peruvian Version of the MOS Scale for Social Support in Cancer Patients and Convergent Network with Quality of Life.

One of the key psychosocial factors that impact mental and emotional health is social support. While much research has been conducted on the role of social support in the lives of cancer patients, there is a lack of studies that consider populations who need specific tools to assess this concept. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the MOS Social Support Scale (1991) in 499 Peruvian cancer patients between the ages of 18 and 87 (M= 46.30, SD = 15.747). In this study, three models of the MOS were analyzed based on 19-item versions (four factor, second order and bifactor model). The results showed a better psychometric fit in the 19-item bifactor model with optimal fit indices through the structural equation method (SB-χ2/df = 1.94, CFI = 0.966, TLI= 0.955, SRMR = 0.038 and RMSEA = 0.058). Additionally, there was evidence of configural, metric and scalar invariance with this instrument according to the gender of the surveyed cancer patients. Convergent validity using a network analysis approach revealed positive associations between social support dimensions and quality of life. Emotional support and positive interactions dimensions were found to be important interconnections in the overall network, as indicated by their greater centralities. Therefore, this instrument could be suggested as a reliable way to evaluate cancer patients and their perceived support.

Social support and its relationship to self hardiness among breast cancer women

Background: Social support for cancer patients can get him out of the atmosphere of the disease and inspire him with a great deal of optimism and hope and make him forget his illness even temporarily, and this contributes to strengthening the patient's ability to confront his illness from a physical, psychological and social aspect. Therefore, thus aimed to assess social support and its relationship to self hardiness among breast cancer women. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess social support and its relationship to self hardiness among breast cancer women in Babylon Province/ Iraq Methods: A descriptive correlational study was conducted with a purposeful sample of 200 women using a non-probability sampling approach. The reliability of the questionnaire was achieved through a pilot study and then presented to experts to prove its validity. The total number of items included in the questionnaire was 16 items for social support and 21 items for self hardiness. The data was collected using the personal interview method and analyzed by applying the descriptive and deductive approach to statistical data analysis. Results: The results of the study indicated that (61.5%) of the women showed moderate social support and (53.5%) showed a lack of self hardiness.

How Should Self-Esteem Be Considered in Cancer Patients?

Numerous studies showed that cancer significantly increases the risk of developing depressive and anxious symptoms. It has been shown that self-esteem is an important psychological resource and is associated with many health behaviors. Furthermore, the vulnerability model of low self-esteem, which has received strong empirical support, highlights that low self-esteem is a real risk factor in the development of depressive disorders. This article aims at providing an overview of the involvement of self-esteem in the psychological adjustment to cancer. After briefly reviewing the literature, we suggest that its implication in the development of depressive disorders and its association with coping strategies and social support in cancer patients justify the consideration of self-esteem in oncology psychological care, especially in young adult patients and those with significant physical impairment following treatment.

Model of Social Support for Patients Treated for Cancer.

Simple SummaryThe experience of being diagnosed with a neoplastic disease and the associated cancer treatment, which is worrying and tough for the patient and their family, causes many difficult situations. Studying the multidimensional approach to social support in oncological patients has allowed for the development of a research model of social support using structural equations. Social support is an important variable in coping with cancer.Social support can be one of the main factors in better assessing the quality of life at any stage of the recovery process. It should meet the patient’s needs so that they can develop constructive methods of coping with the disease. In order to explain the factors influencing social support for cancer patients, a theoretical research model was formulated. It is presented in a graphic form in this article. In order to verify the model, the authors’ questionnaire and other standardised questionnaires were used. The experimental group consisted of 170 hospitalised oncological patients being treated for cancer. Personality structure, through its relationship with state of health (0.40) and attitude developed to the disease (0.64), influenced the support experienced by the treated patients (0.40). The surveyed patients, who were characterised by positive self-esteem and experience of life satisfaction despite various difficult situations, perceived to a greater degree the emotional and instrumental support provided to them. During cancer treatment, those patients who showed a need for help and did not experience negative emotions were characterised by an increased need for support. The research results can be introduced into evidence-based medical practice, which could significantly improve the quality of nursing and medical care for patients.

KUALITAS HIDUP PASIEN KANKER YANG MENJALANI KEMOTERAPI DI RUMAH SAKIT AWAL BROS BATAM TAHUN 2019

Cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy will experience many changes in their lives. Changes that will change their lives due to cancer and the effects of chemotherapy that will affect aspects of human life holistically and will also affect the quality of life. This study aims to analyze the quality of life of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy by describing their physical, psychological, and social conditions. The type of research used is qualitative with in-depth interviews (in dept interview) and observation. Participants in this study were 8 cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at Awal Bros Hospital in Batam according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The research was conducted in May 2020- July 2020. Qualitative data analysis with content analysis. From the results of the research, the physical condition of the patient after undergoing chemotherapy, the body feels weak, cannot walk long distances, has pain in the whole body, it is difficult to rest, has decreased in activity and the ability to concentrate is decreased. The patient's psychological condition while undergoing chemotherapy, the patient experiences emotions that make the patient think negatively about his physical condition, such as a patient who wants to give up on chemotherapy. Social support for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy receives emotional support, motivation from family and health workers and becomes financially dependent. Nurses can further improve the quality of providing multi-dimensional nursing care according to the problems experienced by advanced cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and can provide new insights in the science of oncology.

Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) in cancer patients: psychometric properties and measurement invariance.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties, convergent validity, and factorial invariance of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) in cancer patients. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to explore the scale's dimensionality and test for strong measurement invariance across sex and age in a cross-sectional, multicenter, prospective study. Patients completed the MSPSS and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). A total of 925 consecutive patients were recruited in 13 hospitals between July 2015 and December 2018. The CFA indicated that the original three-factor model was replicated in patients with cancer. The results of the multi-group CFA revealed a strong invariance according to sex and age. The Spanish version of the MSPSS had high estimated reliability with values exceeding .90. The simple sum of the items of each scale was a good indicator of oncology patients' perceived social support. The three MSPSS subscales correlated significantly with the SWLS. Women scored higher on social support by friends than men. The Spanish version of the MSPSS proved to be a valid, reliable instrument to assess perceived social support in cancer patients.

Abstract IA16: COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on the psychological status of cancer patients and oncologists

Abstract On the 11th of March, the Word Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. This unprecedented emergency caused some unexpected effects on the health care system. During the pandemic, the attention focused on keeping cancer patients safe from COVID-19. This infection could have a detrimental effect on the physical and mental health of cancer patients; patients who have a suspension of cancer care suffer more from anxiety and/or depression. One of the worst side effects of COVID-19 is the fact that family members could not visit patients; social support in cancer patients is an important factor for a healthy mental condition. With no social support, their normal coping strategies have to adapt and the feeling of helplessness is overwhelming. These aspects are highlighted by a case report of a European Institute of Oncology patient. After a surgical intervention due to oral tongue cancer, he was diagnosed with COVID-19 infection and this caused anxiety and depression symptoms. During the pandemic, health care professionals’ (HCP) role has been pivotal: HCP had to cope with a stressful working environment, facing physical and psychological challenges. Oncologists, in particular, in their daily practice are at risk of developing burnout symptoms and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and this could be exacerbated by the pandemic. During pandemic phase 1, we evaluated emotional distress and mental health of oncologists all over the world. Our results showed a low mental health status and distress regarding emotional status; oncologists revealed that fear is one of the most diffuse emotions during pandemic. They are afraid for their patients during the hospital hours, and, when they leave the hospital ward, they feel fear for their family members and cohabitants, in a never-ending feeling of dread. This condition, if prolonged, could be a stressor that could lead to burnout syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder. For these reasons, it is important to care for the oncologists who had cared for their patients, often prioritizing it over their own well-being. In these particular times, new technologies can help both patients and oncologists. In this complex scenario, the role of the oncologists becomes more and more important; new technologies’ output must be interpreted and technologies have to be at the service of humans, not vice versa. This should help oncologists to perform the integration of a big amount of diverse data otherwise impossible to put together meaningfully. Citation Format: Gabriella Pravettoni. COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on the psychological status of cancer patients and oncologists [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Meeting: COVID-19 and Cancer; 2020 Jul 20-22. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2020;26(18_Suppl):Abstract nr IA16.

Content shared on social media for national cancer survivors day 2018.

BackgroundStudies estimate that the number of cancer survivors will double by 2050 due to improvements in diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy. Despite the growing population of cancer survivors, there is a paucity of research regarding how these individuals experience the transition from active treatment to long-term surveillance. While research has explored this transition from more organized venues, such as support groups for cancer survivors, this paper explores the discourses surrounding cancer survivorship on social media, paying particular attention to how individuals who identify as cancer survivors represent their experience.MethodsWe identified social media posts relating to cancer survivorship on Twitter and Instagram in early June 2018, in order to coincide with National Cancer Survivorship Day on June 3, 2018. We used nine pre-selected hashtags to identify content. For each hashtag, we manually collected the 150 most recent posts from Twitter and the 100 most recent plus the top 9 posts from Instagram. Our preliminary sample included 1172 posts; after eliminating posts from one hashtag due to irrelevance, we were left with 1063 posts. We randomly sampled 200 of these to create a subset for analysis; after review for irrelevant posts, 193 posts remained for analysis (118 from Instagram and 75 from Twitter). We utilized a grounded theory approach to analyze the posts, first open-coding a subset to develop a codebook, then applying the codebook to the rest of the sample and finally memo writing to develop themes.ResultsOverall, there is substantial difference in the tone and thematic content between Instagram and Twitter posts, Instagram takes on a more narrative form that represents journeys through cancer treatment and subsequent survivorship, whereas Twitter is more factual, leaning towards advocacy, awareness and fundraising. In terms of content type, 120 posts (62%) of the sample were images, of which 42 (35%) were images of the individual posting and 28 (23%) were images of patients posted by family or friends. Of the remaining images, 14 (12%) were of support groups and 7 (6%) were of family or friends. We identified four salient themes through analysis of the social media posts from Twitter and Instagram: social support, celebrating milestones and honoring survivors, expressing identity, and renewal vs. rebirth.DiscussionWe observed a marked relationship between physical appearance, functional status and survivorship. Additionally, our findings suggest the importance of social support for cancer patients and survivors as well as the role social media can pay in identity formation.ConclusionOur findings suggest that individuals who identify as survivors on social media define their identity fluidly, incorporating elements of physical, emotional and psychological health as well as autonomy.

Influence of demographıc factors on perceıved socıal support among adult cancer patients in Turkey.

Social support, acknowledged as a protective factor against diseases, produces positive results in the prognosis of cancer patients. There is no relevant studies on perceived social support and factors related to Turkish cancer patients. Hence, the present study aimed to determine the demographic characteristics that affect the perceived social support in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy in Turkey. This study was designed as a descriptive cross-sectional study. The sample included 423 adult cancer patients who admitted to the Outpatient Chemotherapy Unit of three hospitals in Turkey between March 2014 and August 2014. The data were collected through Demographic Characteristics Form and Cancer-Specific Social Support Scale (CPSSS). Patients were between 19 and 85 years of age with a mean 51.75 years. Almost half of them (40.7%) were primary school graduates, 53.2% were female, 84.6% were married and 85.8% had children. It was found that the patients generally received a high score (127.86 ± 17.44) from the CPSSS scale. The highest scores were obtained on the Confidence Support sub dimension. It was revealed that women and married patients needed more confidence support and general social support (P < 0.05). Social support perceived by primary school graduates was statistically significant to a great extent (P < 0.05). In spite of the difference between the patients with metastasis and their perceived social support grade averages (P > 0.05), it was seen that patients with multiple children utilized more confidence support and general social support in social support reception (P < 0.05). The study showed that study participants received a high amount of social support. Age, gender, marital status, number of children, and educational status were determined to affect perceived social support. It is recommended to support the patients who do not receive sufficient social.

The factor structure of the Medical Outcomes Study–Social Support Survey: A comparison of different models in a sample of recently diagnosed cancer patients

ObjectiveTo analyse the factor structure and psychometric properties of the original and abbreviated versions of the Medical Outcomes Study–Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS) in recently-diagnosed cancer patients. MethodA sample of 128 newly-diagnosed cancer patients were assessed with the Spanish versions of the MOS-SSS and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to analyse six different factor structures. Internal consistency and convergent validity indexes were calculated. The models tested included all of the following: 1) the original five-factor model (comprised of the following dimensions: emotional, informational, and tangible support, positive social interaction, and affection); 2) a four-factor empirical solution; 3 & 4) two different three-factor structures obtained in studies conducted in cancer patients; and 5 & 6) a two-factor solution for the abbreviated 8-item form and a one-factor solution for the 6-item form. ResultsThe original five–factor structure showed a better fit index than the three and four factor models. Both the 6- and 8-item versions showed excellent goodness-of-fit, with adequate internal consistency and convergent validity indexes. ConclusionThe MOS-SSS is a powerful, highly flexible instrument to assess social support in cancer patients. The full 19-item scale allows for a comprehensive assessment of the essential dimensions of social support, while the abbreviated versions permit a quick assessment that minimizes the burden on patients.

The relationship between perception of social support and fatigue in patients with cancer

Background:Fatigue is one of the most common issues related to cancer. Social support has direct effects on health status and coping with illness. This study investigated the relationship between the perception of social support and fatigue in patients with cancer.Materials and Methods:This descriptive/correlational study was conducted in Omid Hospital in Isfahan, Iran in 2014. One hundred and twenty-five cancer patients receiving chemotherapy were included in the study. Study participants were selected using consecutive sampling. Data were collected using the Cancer Fatigue Scale (CFS), Perceived Social Support Scale, and a demographic characteristics questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistical tests in SPSS software.Results:Mean (SD) of patients’ fatigue and perceived social support scores were 40.63 (11.59) out of 100 and 49.33 (7.85) out of 100, respectively. The Pearson correlation coefficient showed an inverse relationship between fatigue and social support, however, this relationship was not significant. Multiple regression test was used to detect which dimension of perceived social support was a better predictor of the reduction in fatigue score. This test showed that the best predictor was informational support (B = −0.35, p = 0.004).Conclusions:Results showed a negative relationship between fatigue and perceived social support in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Therefore, social support interventions can help reduce fatigue.

Psychosocial distress and desire for support among inpatients with skin cancer.

Regular assessment of psychosocial distress is an important component of adequate psycho-oncological and social support in cancer patients. To date, relevant studies on skin cancer patients have primarily included individuals with melanoma. (1) Does the need for psychosocial support vary with the type of skin cancer? (2) Do mentally distressed patients desire support? (3) From the various individuals in the treatment team, whom do patients choose as potential contact person? Inpatients with skin cancer were asked to self-assess their psychosocial situation using the Hornheide questionnaire. In addition, they were asked about their desire for psychosocial support and the preferred potential contact person. The need for support among the 116 patients surveyed varied significantly depending on the diagnosis (p=0.007). However, the direct comparison between patients with melanoma (n=38; 32.8%) and squamous cell carcinoma (n=9; 7.8%) (p=0.724) or other types of skin cancer (n=20; 17.2%) (p=0.366) revealed no such difference. The prevalence of psychosocial distress (n=49; 42.2%) and the desire for support (n=20; 17.4%) showed considerable differences. Patients primarily chose a physician (n=14/35) or a psychologist (n=13/35) as potential "go-to" person for their mental distress. Apart from psychosocial distress, the desire for support should be assessed, and patients should be provided access to additional psychosocial care options. With respect to the need for psychosocial support, it does not seem to be justified to preferentially -or even exclusively -consider melanoma patients in clinical practice and research.

Influencia de las características demográficas y variables clínicas en la percepción de apoyo social en pacientes con cáncer

The purpose of this study was to evaluate how socio-demographic and clinical variables were related to the different dimensions of perceived social support in cancer patients receiving oncology treatment. The sample included 740 cancer out-pa- tients. Socio-demographic and clinical predictors showed lower levels of variance in each dimension of social support. Patients reported less perceived instrumental support at a longer duration since diagnosis. Women perceived less instrumental support than men (p < 0.01). Also, signifi cant group differences were observed for patients who were married compared with non part- nered. Patients with personal psychiatric antecedents compared with non psychiatric antecedent, perceived signifi cantly less Emotional/Informational (p < 0.01) and Affective support (p < 0.01), in addition to lower scores in overall index of social sup- port (p < 0.01). The fi ndings point out that assessing socio-demographic and illness-related characteristics of cancer patients can lead to a better understanding of the differences in perceived social support.

Association between suicidal ideation and behavior, and depression, anxiety, and perceived social support in cancer patients

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to determine the relationship between suicidal behavior and associated factors such as depression, anxiety, and perceived social support level in cancer patients.Material/MethodsThe study group included 102 patients who were under treatment in the oncology department and the control group included 100 individuals with similar sociodemographic features. A sociodemographic information form, Beck depression inventory, Beck anxiety inventory, suicidal behavior inventory, suicidal ideation inventory, and multidimensional inventory of perceived social support were used.ResultsThe mean Beck depression inventory and Beck anxiety inventory scores in the study group were significantly higher compared to the control group. Thirteen patients in the study group attempted suicide, whereas 3 individuals attempted suicide in the control group. Similarly, the mean suicide behavior and ideation scores in the study group were significantly higher compared to the control group. The mean total multidimensional inventories of perceived social support score, as well as the mean family and friend sub-inventory scores in the control group were significantly higher compared to the study group.ConclusionsThis study revealed that depression and anxiety occur frequently in cancer patients. Suicide attempts and ideation are higher in cancer patients compared to the control group. Social support perceived from family and friends is lower in cancer patients. Suicide attempts are correlated with depression, anxiety, low level of perceived social support, and advanced disease stage.

Importance of Social Support in Cancer Patients

Social support is regarded as a complex construct which has long been suggested to have direct and buffering effects on patients' wellbeing and emotional adjustment to cancer. Cross-sectional and prospective studies show a positive association between perceived social support and psychological adjustment following cancer treatment. Research findings suggest that the evidence for the relationship between social support and cancer progression is sufficiently strong. This report points out the importance of social support in cancer and provides recommendations for health care professionals.

A Blended Learning Model of Peer Support Training Program for Women with Breast Cancer

Objectives: Peer support is an important social support for cancer patients. A blended learning model of peer support training program in breast cancer was tested for feasibility. Methods: We developed a peer support training program for women with breast cancer with a blended learning approach combining face-to-face methods with e-learning. After face-to-face orientation, a 20-session e-learning program was provided on the Web followed by a one-day workshop including role playing. Log-files were recorded to assess the pattern of use in the e-learning program. The usability and acceptability were assessed by an evaluation questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale. Psychosocial outcomes were assessed over time (baseline, post-program, and 3-month follow-up) using repeated measured one-way analysis of variance. Results: Twenty-eight women with breast cancer experience were recruited to the study. The rates of retention and assessment completion were high (92.9% and 89.3%, respectively). Participants favorably rated on the usability of the program. The mean time taken to complete the total of 20 sessions in the e-learning program was 18.69 days. There were no adverse psychosocial effects on the participants. Conclusions: The blended learning model of the breast cancer peer support training program was feasible and well accepted by the peer support volunteers.