BC Cancer Agency Study Tests Value Of Online Emotional Support, Canada

Main Category: Breast Cancer
Also Included In: Women's Health / Gynecology;  Cancer / Oncology
Article Date: 31 Jul 2007 - 1:00 PDT

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The BC Cancer Agency, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is launching a new pilot study, the first of its kind in Canada, to test the value of online emotional support in improving the quality of life of young women with breast cancer.

In the study, Moving Forward After Breast Cancer, eligible young women with breast cancer will be randomized to join one of two trial groups. Participants in the first group will connect with each other in a 10-week internet skills and support group led by a professional counselor while also completing a self-directed at home coping skills program. The second group will only complete the at home coping skills program.

"The internet is a powerful tool with the potential to reduce geographical and other barriers; and by comparing the two trial groups in this study, we can test whether an online resource is an effective way of providing counseling support for cancer patients," says Dr. Joanne Stephen, a researcher who is leading this study at the BC Cancer Agency.

"While there are existing support groups and educational resources for young women, these are often limited to those living in major cities," explains Dr. Stephen. "With an online resource, young women regardless of where they live will be able to benefit from accessing companionship and information."

The study will investigate whether the online skills and support group can reduce distress, change perception of how much breast cancer interferes with the physical well-being, and increase participants' confidence in coping with future challenges.

Participants will discuss issues and share information specific to young breast cancer patients, and learn about goal setting and other coping skills in a professionally-led environment.

"By evaluating the outcome of this study, we can optimize the uptake of online support in other areas of cancer care," adds Dr. Stephen.

For Denise Graham, the internet was the first place she turned to for information when diagnosed with breast cancer at age 34, several years ago. "I felt very alone and needed answers to what I should expect during and after treatment. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find much tailored for women my age."

"A web-based community is a great idea since the internet is really a second language for most young people," says Graham, who celebrated her five year anniversary as a breast cancer survivor this June. "We simply don't have time to access face-to-face support."

Young women with breast cancer face issues unique to their older counterparts, such as the medical and physical consequences of treatment including chemotherapy-induced menopause, and changes with sexuality and fertility; and problems related to returning to work and family relations.

"I received advice to slow down and to do only as much as I can," adds Graham, recalling her experience at support groups for older women. "I kept thinking to myself, I still have so much to do! The reality is I'm still young; I still have to work and support a mortgage."

The study, funded by the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, is open to breast cancer patients who have completed treatment for up to three years or are close to completing treatment. Participants need to be under the age of 46 who live in BC or the Yukon. For more information, please visit http://canada.thewellnesscommunity.org. Core support for research at the BC Cancer Agency is provided by the BC Cancer Foundation.

The BC Cancer Agency, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority, is committed to reducing the incidence of cancer, reducing the mortality from cancer, and improving the quality of life of those living with cancer. It provides a comprehensive cancer control program for the people of British Columbia by working with community partners to deliver a range of oncology services, including prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment, research, education, supportive care, rehabilitation and palliative care. The BC Cancer Foundation raises funds to support research and enhancements to patient care at the BC Cancer Agency.

http://www.bccancer.bc.ca