Psychosocial interventions for adolescent cancer patients: a systematic review of the literature

Abstract

Taken together, the findings point out that there is a lack of intervention research in psycho-oncology with adolescents. So far, there is only limited evidence for the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions to improve coping with cancer-associated problems in adolescent patients. Future research needs to be done in this population. In order to establish more conclusive results, larger samples and interventions particularly designed for adolescent patients ought to be studied.

Eficacia de intervenciones psicológicas dirigidas a promover el ajuste de niños con cáncer y de sus padres: una revisión

“…In general, our results are consistent with those reported in other published works (Davey & Neff, 2001;Pai, Drotar, Zebracki, Moore & Youngstrom, 2006;Robinson et al, 2009;Seitz et al, 2009). Specifically, the meta-analysis per-anales de psicología, 2014, vol.…”

“…30, nº 1 (enero) formed by Pai et al (2006), using 12 articles published between 1983 and 2005, indicated that interventions targeting children had no significant effect on distress or adjustment measures, while those employed with parents showed a modest, but statistically significant effect. Meanwhile, Seitz et al (2009) reviewed psychological interventions´ effectiveness to reduce psychological distress and / or improve psychosocial adjustment of adolescents with cancer. Of four articles, only one presented statistically significant changes when comparing the experimental treatment with a waiting list control.…”

“…Despite this overall good performance, there is a small subgroup (10% -30%), generally comprehending children who have suffered some damage in the CNS (as a result from the tumor or the treatment), who have a wide range of clinical significant psychological problems, such as: depressive symptoms, somatic, anxiety and low self-esteem, ineffective coping, school, family, social or work problems (Barakat al., 2003;Grootenhuis & Last, 1997;Kazak, 2005;Kazak et al, 2003, Maurice-Stam, Oort, Last & Grootenhuis, 2008Newby et al, 2000;Patenaude & Kupst, 2005;Robinson, Gerhardt, Vannata & Noll, 2009;Seitz et al , 2009). …”

Psychosocial Barriers and Facilitators to Clinical Trial Enrollment and Adherence for Adolescents With Cancer

“…More specialized supportive services are also needed, which can assist in acute situations or address common issues such as school, job, and school integration, social and communication skills, and coping with psychological or physical impairments due to late effects. 13 Routine incorporation of specialized supportive services could be especially instrumental in clinical trial adherence.…”

“…This impact may usher in the development of psychological distress, depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, and poor self-image. [12][13][14][15] Adolescents, more so than children diagnosed with cancer, have the cognitive capacity to process the gravity of their diagnosis. Consequently, adolescents may experience higher rates of distress and anxiety about facing premature mortality and the effects of disease and related treatment, such as changes in appearance (eg, hair loss, weight, scarring, skin coloration) and changes in autonomy (eg, dependence on caregivers, changes in mobility).…”