Patients' Knowledge and Attitudes towards Cancer Peer Support Programs

Abstract

The objective of this study was to gain a better understanding of cancer patients' preexisting knowledge, expectations and concerns towards peer support programs. Data were collected and analyzed in 51 patients using a standardized short interview and content analysis. Only 37% of the patients claimed to know peer support programs, and half of these regularly attended a support group. Forty-seven percent of the patients who did not know these programs showed a general interest. Reasons for attending a support group were primarily the exchange with other patients (18% of all statements), obtaining information about disease and treatment (10%) and receiving emotional support (9%). The main argument against participation was the fear of suffering when confronted with problems of others (21%). Utilization may be increased if volunteers and health care practitioners give patients more detailed information about the various offers of peer support.

Information‐seeking and use of information resources among melanoma patients of German skin cancer centers

“…In this regard, MPs differed from other cancer patients , almost half of whom reported that they made use of these facilities. There are several causes of low use, but the main reason seems to be inadequate public awareness of the scope and availability of support options .…”

“…There are several causes of low use, but the main reason seems to be inadequate public awareness of the scope and availability of support options [ 29,30 ] .…”

Preferences for models of peer support in the digital era: A cross‐sectional survey of people with cancer

“…Most studies examining barriers to participation have focused on traditional face‐to‐face models. These studies have identified low rates of referrals from health professionals, the regular time commitment, scheduling difficulties, travel constraints, feeling unwell, distress at seeing others' health declining, and feeling uncomfortable speaking in a group format as barriers to participation …”

“…These studies have identified low rates of referrals from health professionals, the regular time commitment, scheduling difficulties, travel constraints, feeling unwell, distress at seeing others' health declining, and feeling uncomfortable speaking in a group format as barriers to participation. [14][15][16] The internet presents individuals with new choices for accessing peer support. Web-based peer support includes email groups, chat rooms, online forums, and social networking.…”

Informationssuche und Nutzung von Informationsquellen durch Melanompatienten deutscher Hautkrebszentren

“…In dieser Hinsicht unterschieden sich die MP von anderen Krebspatienten , von denen fast die Hälfte angab, dass sie diese Angebote nutzten. Für die geringe Nutzung sind verschiedene Gründe denkbar, der wichtigste scheint jedoch eine generelle mangelnde öffentliche Wahrnehmung der Verfügbarkeit und des Umfangs von Unterstützungsmöglichkeiten zu sein .…”