Premium
A supportive–expressive group intervention for women with a family history of breast cancer: results of a phase II study
Author(s) -
Esplen Mary Jane,
Toner Brenda,
Hunter Jonathan,
Glendon Gordon,
Liede Alexander,
Narod Steve,
Stuckless Noreen,
Butler Kate,
Field Barb
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
psycho‐oncology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.41
H-Index - 137
eISSN - 1099-1611
pISSN - 1057-9249
DOI - 10.1002/1099-1611(200005/06)9:3<243::aid-pon457>3.0.co;2-i
Subject(s) - psychosocial , breast cancer , comprehension , clinical psychology , anxiety , family history , history of depression , distress , intervention (counseling) , randomized controlled trial , depression (economics) , medicine , psychology , cancer , psychiatry , linguistics , philosophy , economics , macroeconomics
Background: Evidence suggests that there are significant psychological and behavioural sequelae associated with having a family history of breast cancer (BC) which can interfere with comprehension of risk estimates. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop, standardize and do preliminary testing of a group intervention designed to address the emotional impact of having a family history of BC. Methods: This study is a single‐arm pilot design with pre‐ and post‐measures of perceived risk, psychosocial distress, knowledge and screening practices. Results: The primary study outcome measure of risk comprehension was significantly improved by 70%, according to our predetermined criteria for success. In addition, the most important secondary measures of psychosocial functioning, such as cancer‐related distress ( p =0.025), depression ( p =0.05), anxiety ( p =0.005) and unresolved grief ( p =0.034) were significantly improved. Conclusion: The results of this initial pilot study are encouraging; however, further research is required, using a randomized controlled study design to evaluate the relative contribution of this intervention to the successful modification of risk comprehension, enhanced psychological functioning, and to promote optimal screening adherence.