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Supportive Care in Cancer
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer 12/2010

01-12-2010 | Short Communication

A randomised pilot of a self-help workbook intervention for breast cancer survivors

Authors: Lisa Beatty, Melissa Oxlad, Bogda Koczwara, Tracey D. Wade

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 12/2010

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Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a self-help workbook for improving adjustment for breast cancer survivors.

Methods

An RCT compared the workbook (n = 20) with no-workbook controls (n = 20). Coping, traumatic stress and quality of life were measured at baseline, then 3 and 6 months later.

Results

No interactions were found. A significant group main effect was found for venting coping; controls used less venting coping than workbook participants (p = 0.034). A significant time main effect was obtained for cognitive functioning (p = 0.003). Reliable change indices showed a trend towards a protective effect across all coping measures for workbook participants compared to controls. Qualitative feedback suggested that participants felt well supported by the intervention, but would have preferred receiving it during treatment.

Conclusions

While trends showed some promise for improving coping, endorsement for the workbook was not obtained. The difficulties encountered in recruiting survivors and the resulting implications regarding the feasibility of offering self-help resources to this population are discussed.
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Metadata
Title
A randomised pilot of a self-help workbook intervention for breast cancer survivors
Authors
Lisa Beatty
Melissa Oxlad
Bogda Koczwara
Tracey D. Wade
Publication date
01-12-2010
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 12/2010
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-010-0962-2

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