Ethnic differences in psychosocial service use among non-Latina white and Latina breast cancer survivors

Abstract

Background This study examined the use of psychosocial services (i.e. social work, psychiatric, psychological, and spiritual/pastoral services) among Latina and Non-Latina White breast cancer survivors. Methods Survivors who received treatment in a Comprehensive Cancer Center in New York completed a mailed questionnaire about interest in help for distress, and psychosocial service use. Descriptive and non-parametric statistics were used to explore ethnic differences in use of, and interest in, psychosocial services. Results Thirty three percent of breast cancer survivors reported needing mental health or psychosocial services after their cancer diagnosis (33% Latinas, 34% Whites); 34% of survivors discussed with their oncologist or cancer care provider their emotional problems or needs after the diagnosis (30% Latinas, 36% Whites). Only 40% of the survivors who reported needing services received a referral for psychosocial services (42% Latinas, 39% Whites). Sixty six percent of survivors who reported needing services had contact with a counselor or mental health professional (psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker) after their diagnosis (57% Latinas, 71% Whites), and 61% of those needing services reported receiving psychosocial services (53% Latinas, 67% Whites). Whites were significantly more likely than Latinas to have contact with a social worker (33% vs. 17%, respectively) and to receive psychotropic medication (15% vs. 0%, respectively). However, Latinas were significantly more likely to receive spiritual counseling than Whites (11% vs. 3%, respectively). Conclusion Our study revealed gaps for both groups; however, the gaps differed by group. It is crucial to study and address potential differences in the psychosocial services availability, acceptability and help-seeking behaviors of ethnically diverse cancer patients and survivors.

Patient‐reported outcome measures among breast cancer survivors: A cross‐sectional comparison between Malaysia and high‐income countries

“…Therefore, the prioritization of getting healthy and remaining healthy is likely consistent across populations. However, the ways in which these needs are met may be different across economic and racial groups . Therefore, population‐specific physician‐patient communication tools and effective educational materials may assist in important decision making processes within targeted groups …”

“…Cross‐sectional studies in predominantly high‐income countries (HICs) have shown that emotional and psychological well‐being are common themes among breast cancer survivors . These studies also found that the main needs after diagnosis or treatment are management of long‐term side effects as well as physical, cognitive, and sexual functioning needs, while longitudinal studies highlight that fear and feelings of uncertainty evolve over time after diagnosis …”

“…A limited number of studies on patient outcomes among minority groups in developed countries indicate that ethnic and regional differences exist . Interestingly, a study of American breast cancer survivors revealed that African‐American women reported higher psychosocial and sexual functioning compared with White women .…”

“…[5][6][7][8][9] These studies also found that the main needs after diagnosis or treatment are management of long-term side effects as well as physical, cognitive, and sexual functioning needs, 5,6,10 while longitudinal studies highlight that fear and feelings of uncertainty evolve over time after diagnosis. [11][12][13][14] A limited number of studies on patient outcomes among minority groups in developed countries indicate that ethnic and regional differences exist. 11,14 Interestingly, a study of American breast cancer survivors revealed that African-American women reported higher psychosocial and sexual functioning compared with White women.…”

Health care use during cancer survivorship: Review of 5 years of evidence

“…26 Among breast cancer survivors, 34% reported having discussions with their health care provider about emotional problems any time after their cancer diagnosis. 26 Among breast cancer survivors, 34% reported having discussions with their health care provider about emotional problems any time after their cancer diagnosis.…”