Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
8.0
4.5
Journals
Cancers
Special Issues
Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology
share announcement

Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology

A special issue of Cancers (ISSN 2072-6694). This special issue belongs to the section "Pediatric Oncology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2025 | Viewed by 8836

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Lori Wiener

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
Interests: pediatric psycho-oncology; adolescent and young adult psycho-oncology; palliative and end-of-life care; psychosocial tool development; quality of life research
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Amanda L. Thompson

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Life with Cancer, Inova Schar Cancer Institute, Fairfax, VA 22031, USA
Interests: pediatric psycho-oncology; children and families impacted by cancer; the quality of psychosocial care; bereavement

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Psychosocial care is critical to supporting the adjustment, coping, and quality of life of children and families from the time of diagnosis, throughout treatment, and into survivorship or through end-of-life and bereavement. Now a standard of care in pediatric oncology, psychosocial support is considered essential for all children and families. Interprofessional team members collaborate on assessment, intervention, education, and research to advance the science and practice of pediatric psycho-oncology.

This Special Issue in Cancers will highlight “Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology,” including but not limited to studies focusing on social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes of childhood cancer; quality of life during active treatment, transition off treatment, or during survivorship; palliative care, end of life, and bereavement; and psychosocial interventions for patients and families (e.g., caregivers, siblings).  We welcome quantitative and qualitative methods, and systematic or scoping reviews. Manuscripts that elevate the patient and family voice are strongly encouraged, as is interprofessional authorship.

Dr. Lori Wiener
Dr. Amanda L. Thompson
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Cancers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • childhood cancer
  • adolescents
  • young adult
  • psychosocial care
  • emotional outcomes
  • survivorship
  • palliative care
  • bereavement

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (10 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

11 pages, 456 KiB  
Communication
An Interprofessional Approach to Developing Family Psychosocial Support Programs in a Pediatric Oncology Healthcare Setting
by Erin Turner, Erica H. Sirrine, Valerie McLaughlin Crabtree, D. Andrew Elliott, Ashley Carr, Paula Elsener and Kendra R. Parris
Cancers 2025, 17(8), 1342; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17081342 - 16 Apr 2025
Viewed by 168
Abstract
Background: The Standards for the Psychosocial Care of Children with Cancer and their Families provide a framework for the delivery of psychosocial care to families experiencing pediatric cancer. Similarly, the Pediatric Psychosocial Preventative Health Model (PPPHM) guides intervention approaches by identifying three tiers [...] Read more.
Background: The Standards for the Psychosocial Care of Children with Cancer and their Families provide a framework for the delivery of psychosocial care to families experiencing pediatric cancer. Similarly, the Pediatric Psychosocial Preventative Health Model (PPPHM) guides intervention approaches by identifying three tiers of psychosocial support based on a family’s level of risk. Employing both the Standards and the PPPHM, we developed a comprehensive three-tiered approach to support the psychosocial needs of families in a pediatric oncology setting. Methods: After publication of the Standards, our institution merged existing psychosocial disciplines into one unified Psychosocial Services department. The new department worked to clearly define the role and scope of each discipline’s practice to ensure the psychosocial needs of patients and families were being comprehensively met. Interprofessional workgroups were established to evaluate and enhance the psychosocial services offered to patients, siblings, and caregivers using a three-tiered model of support. Membership included representation from patients and parent/caregiver advisors to ensure their perspectives were included in program development. Results: Over ten new programs have been developed to enhance the support of families facing pediatric cancer. At the Universal tier, new programs available to all families include caregiver and sibling support groups, a caregiver podcast, and a relationship health toolkit and workshop. At the Targeted tier, psychosocial interventions and parent mentor supports were implemented. At the Clinical/Intervention tier, a partnership was developed with an external tele-mental health company to provide mental health services to caregivers with significant needs or preexisting mental health disorders. Conclusions: Given the complex needs of families facing pediatric cancer, use of an interdisciplinary approach is paramount to successful support throughout the treatment trajectory. By leveraging the expertise and strengths of diverse disciplines with the perspectives of patients and families, new psychosocial programs can comprehensively address the unique challenges of patients and families impacted by illness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 238 KiB  
Article
“Somewhat of an Adult”: Understanding the “Dance” of Competing Tensions Parents Manage While Caring for an Adolescent or Young Adult (AYA) Diagnosed with Hematologic Malignancy
by M. Devyn Mullis, Carma L. Bylund, Diliara Bagautdinova, Emma G. Bryan, Maria Sae-Hau, Elisa S. Weiss, Joanne P. Lagmay and Carla L. Fisher
Cancers 2025, 17(8), 1299; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17081299 - 12 Apr 2025
Viewed by 475
Abstract
Background: Parents supporting AYAs with blood cancer juggle dual, competing roles as cancer caregiver and parent, which may heighten distress as they feel pulled simultaneously in two opposing directions. Likewise, AYAs encounter paradoxical needs as they revert to being more dependent on their [...] Read more.
Background: Parents supporting AYAs with blood cancer juggle dual, competing roles as cancer caregiver and parent, which may heighten distress as they feel pulled simultaneously in two opposing directions. Likewise, AYAs encounter paradoxical needs as they revert to being more dependent on their parents to prioritize their survival while their developmental trajectory toward independence is disrupted. Parents need help understanding the underlying tensions they face in caregiving to reduce their distress and promote their connectedness with their AYA. Using a dialectical lens, we identified tensions parents encountered while caregiving in three contexts (clinical, family, and online communication) to inform a targeted psychosocial intervention. Methods: In partnership with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, we recruited 20 parents for in-depth interviews. Parents cared for adolescents aged 15–18 (n = 10) or emerging adults aged 19–29 (n = 10) diagnosed >3 months prior and in active treatment or within 2 years since treatment ended. Transcripts were thematically analyzed. Results: Parents described four ongoing tensions they needed to negotiate as they cared for their AYA: (1) being the driver versus passenger in their child’s care; (2) coping with cancer together as a family versus separately; (3) deciding to reveal versus conceal information; and (4) expecting normative developmental and disease trajectories versus disrupted trajectories. These tensions characterize the complex caregiving “dance” parents navigate in all three care contexts. Conclusions: Psychosocial education can normalize these tensions for parents to promote healthier coping and reduce distress while enhancing connectedness with their AYA. As caregiver–patient outcomes are interrelated, it may improve AYAs’ well-being. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
20 pages, 1738 KiB  
Article
Psychosocial Outcomes in Parents of Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in Australia and New Zealand Through and Beyond Treatment
by Clare Parker, Clarissa E. Schilstra, Karen McCleary, Michelle Martin, Toby N. Trahair, Rishi S. Kotecha, Shanti Ramachandran, Ruellyn Cockcroft, Rachel Conyers, Siobhan Cross, Luciano Dalla-Pozza, Peter Downie, Tamas Revesz, Michael Osborn, Glenn M. Marshall, Claire E. Wakefield, Marion K. Mateos and Joanna E. Fardell
Cancers 2025, 17(7), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17071238 - 6 Apr 2025
Viewed by 349
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Parents of children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) experience emotional distress throughout their child’s treatment course. This study describes the psychological experience of Australian and New Zealand parents of children diagnosed with ALL. Methods: This prospective, longitudinal study assessed distress, anxiety, depression, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Parents of children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) experience emotional distress throughout their child’s treatment course. This study describes the psychological experience of Australian and New Zealand parents of children diagnosed with ALL. Methods: This prospective, longitudinal study assessed distress, anxiety, depression, anger and the need for help in parents of children with newly diagnosed ALL across eight sites between October 2018 and November 2022. Psychological symptoms were quantified using the Emotion Thermometer (ET) tool and Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) questionnaires. Participants were recruited within ninety days of chemotherapy commencement, with surveys distributed bimonthly thereafter. Results: One hundred and seventeen participants completed 327 survey responses spanning 0 to 62 months post-diagnosis. Parental distress peaked within the first 6 months and 40% of parents reported clinically significant symptoms across four or more domains as measured by our questionnaires. Anxiety was the most consistently elevated symptom, with over 50% of responses above the clinical cut-off. Depression and the need for help also peaked closer to diagnosis and declined over time. In contrast, anger remained stable, with 27% reporting clinically significant scores across all time points. Increased time since diagnosis was significantly associated with reductions in distress, anxiety and depression scores. Conclusions: Australian and New Zealand parents experience high levels of psychological distress within the first six months following their child’s diagnosis of ALL. A notable minority continue to report elevated distress levels over time, identifying a need for improved psychological support for family wellbeing throughout the ALL treatment trajectory. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 1307 KiB  
Article
Factors Affecting Psychosocial Distress in Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer: BRIGHTLIGHT Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Cohort Study Results
by Chana Korenblum, Rachel M. Taylor, Lorna A. Fern, Rachael Hough and Bethany Wickramasinghe
Cancers 2025, 17(7), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17071196 - 31 Mar 2025
Viewed by 356
Abstract
Background/Objectives: AYAs face unique psychosocial challenges compared to younger children and older adults. Little published data exists about symptoms of psychological distress in AYAs, particularly in large cohorts over time. This study aimed to (1) explore relationships between distress and variables known to [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: AYAs face unique psychosocial challenges compared to younger children and older adults. Little published data exists about symptoms of psychological distress in AYAs, particularly in large cohorts over time. This study aimed to (1) explore relationships between distress and variables known to impact mental health, (2) examine distress over time, and (3) consult with a patient and public involvement group (Young Advisory Panel, YAP) to contextualize the results. Methods: Secondary data analyses were conducted from a multicentre longitudinal cohort study, which recruited 830 participants aged 13–24 years newly diagnosed with different cancers. The mean age was 20.1 (SD 3.3) and 45% were female. Bespoke surveys, including a validated measure of psychosocial distress, were administered five times over 3 years following diagnosis. Participatory workshops were conducted with the YAP to gather their impressions of the study results and inform conclusions. Results: At the first time point, higher social support was associated with higher distress scores (β = 0.202, p < 0.001) and AYAs with higher depressive symptoms were more likely to see a mental health professional (p < 0.01). Over time, anxiety symptoms remained stable (p = 0.090); however, depressive symptoms improved (p < 0.001). The YAP highlighted the mixed effects of social support and the under-recognition and undertreatment of distress. Conclusions: This information identifies key targets, such as social support, that can inform the design of personalized screening and intervention tools. It also highlights specific timepoints at which these efforts can be directed to mitigate distress and improve quality of life. Future research should include longer-term follow-up, qualitative explorations of distress along the disease trajectory, and ongoing co-production efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 835 KiB  
Article
Problem-Solving Skills Training for Parents of Children Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Mixed Methods Feasibility Study
by Heather Bemis, Mikela Ritter, Maxwell (Nina) Lee, Paula Murray, Robert Noll, Rebecca Barber, Chelsea Balian and Jessica Ward
Cancers 2025, 17(6), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17060930 - 10 Mar 2025
Viewed by 477
Abstract
Background: Caregivers of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are at risk for psychological distress. Bright IDEAS® (BI) is an effective and acceptable modification of problem-solving therapy for caregivers of children with new cancer diagnoses, but it has not been tested [...] Read more.
Background: Caregivers of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are at risk for psychological distress. Bright IDEAS® (BI) is an effective and acceptable modification of problem-solving therapy for caregivers of children with new cancer diagnoses, but it has not been tested on caregivers of children undergoing HSCT. This randomized controlled pilot examined the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of BI among caregivers of children undergoing HSCT. Methods: English- and Spanish-speaking caregivers of children aged 2–21 years were recruited within 10 days of their child’s autologous or allogeneic HSCT. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive six-to-eight individualized BI sessions or usual care. Participants completed self-report measures of psychological distress at enrollment (pre-intervention) and on days 60, 90, and 180 post HSCT. Qualitative interviews were conducted among a subset (N = 7) of intervention completers to assess caregiver perceptions of BI. Results: A total of 107 caregivers were screened for participation; 64 were eligible. Thirty-eight were enrolled (59.4%) and randomized. In the BI group, 14/20 participants (70%) completed six or more sessions. The completion rate for distress measures was at least 78% for both study groups across timepoints. Despite higher baseline scores, caregivers in the BI group reported lower anxiety and depression scores at follow-up timepoints compared to the control group, based on observed trends. Qualitative interviews reflected acceptability of BI. Conclusions: The results support the feasibility and acceptability of BI for caregivers of children undergoing HSCT. A larger efficacy trial of BI in the pediatric HSCT setting is warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 413 KiB  
Article
Family-Level Impact of Germline Genetic Testing in Childhood Cancer: A Multi Family Member Interview Analysis
by Sophie Van Hoyweghen, Kathleen B. M. Claes, Robin de Putter, Claire E. Wakefield, Marie Van Poucke, Marieke Van Schoors, Sabine Hellemans and Lesley Verhofstadt
Cancers 2025, 17(3), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17030517 - 4 Feb 2025
Viewed by 934
Abstract
Objectives: Germline genetic testing is increasingly being integrated into pediatric oncology and a large number of families are interested. Current research on the psychological impact of germline genetic testing is limited by a main focus on individual outcomes in parents or children and [...] Read more.
Objectives: Germline genetic testing is increasingly being integrated into pediatric oncology and a large number of families are interested. Current research on the psychological impact of germline genetic testing is limited by a main focus on individual outcomes in parents or children and little is known about its impact at the family level. Our study addresses that limitation by exploring parents’ lived experiences of how their family—as a whole—is affected by germline genetic testing for cancer predisposition. Methods: In six families who opted for germline genetic testing in the context of cancer predisposition, both parents of six ill children (five boys) with an average age of 9.67 years (SD = 3.77 years) were interviewed individually (N = 12). Germline genetic testing was performed by exome sequencing followed by analysis of a panel of childhood cancer predisposition genes in pediatric cancer patients and their parents. Their experiences were elicited through semi-structured interviews and the data were analyzed using Multi Family Member Interview Analysis. This qualitative study was conducted at Ghent University Hospital in Belgium. Results: The findings demonstrated that while germline genetic testing was generally viewed as a valuable and straightforward step in the child’s oncology trajectory, parents found it difficult to distinguish its impact from the overwhelming stressors of their child’s cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, parents recognized that the testing also significantly affected various family-level processes. Five main themes were identified: talking about germline genetic testing, being together matters (more), differences in coping with germline genetic testing between partners, feelings of guilt and mutual forgiveness, and concerns about the future health of the family. Conclusions: Given the expanded use of germline genetic testing in pediatric oncology, it is critical for clinicians to address the family-level impacts of germline genetic testing. Although families are affected by these issues, they often do not raise them due to the overwhelming challenges posed by the cancer diagnosis and treatment. Proactively addressing these themes could improve the support provided to families undergoing germline genetic testing for cancer predisposition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 227 KiB  
Article
Patient Acceptability of the First Integrative Pediatric Oncology Unit in Spain—The Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona Experience: A Retrospective Study
by Esther Martínez García, Cristina López de San Roman Fernández, M. Betina Nishishinya Aquino, Sara Pérez-Jaume, Carles Fernández-Jané, Ofelia Cruz Martínez and Andrés Morales La Madrid
Cancers 2025, 17(2), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17020222 - 11 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1042
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pediatric cancer patients and their families are increasingly combining conventional treatment with complementary therapies. These therapies are not covered by most public healthcare systems, and Spain is not an exception. To address this need, the Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona, at the Hospital [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pediatric cancer patients and their families are increasingly combining conventional treatment with complementary therapies. These therapies are not covered by most public healthcare systems, and Spain is not an exception. To address this need, the Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona, at the Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (Spain), established the first integrative pediatric oncology unit in 2019. The objective of this study is to describe the feasibility of implementing a pediatric integrative oncology unit, in terms of the acceptance of the interventions, as well as to present initial data on the care activities; Methods: This is a retrospective single-center study, conducted in the Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona, at the Hospital Sant Joan de Déu. Data from patients during a two-year period were collected by reviewing medical records in a pseudonymous manner; Results: From 1 September 2019 to 30 September 2021, the unit was visited by 433 patients. The median age of patients was 9 years [range 0–34 years], with 266 boys (61.4%) and 167 girls (38.6%). Of these patients, 90.1% were in active treatment, 7.6% were survivors, and 2.3% were at the end of life. Acupuncture was recommended to 227 patients, with a 94.7% acceptance rate. Aromatherapy was recommended to 114 patients, with a 100% acceptance. The reflexology team visited 129 patients, delivering a total of 414 sessions, with a 96.1% acceptance.; Conclusions: The findings of our study support the feasibility of implementing an Integrative Pediatric Oncology Unit within a patient-centered care model in a comprehensive pediatric cancer center. The high acceptance rates of various complementary therapies highlight their potential role in enhancing supportive care for pediatric oncology patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
11 pages, 497 KiB  
Article
Integrated Psychological Services in Pediatric Oncology: Caregiver Perspectives at Diagnosis
by Emily Bernstein, Anna M. Jones, Niki Jurbergs, Jennifer L. Harman, Sean Phipps and R. Elyse Heidelberg
Cancers 2024, 16(18), 3137; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16183137 - 12 Sep 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1236
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pediatric oncology patients and families are at risk for increased distress at diagnosis. The New Oncology Program in Psychology (NOPP) aligns psychological care with the established standards of care at diagnosis. This project aimed to evaluate NOPP and understand the differences between [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pediatric oncology patients and families are at risk for increased distress at diagnosis. The New Oncology Program in Psychology (NOPP) aligns psychological care with the established standards of care at diagnosis. This project aimed to evaluate NOPP and understand the differences between caregivers’ perceptions of feeling informed and prepared to navigate psychosocial concerns for those who did and did not receive psychological services at diagnosis. Methods: A survey was administered via a virtual platform. Frequency analyses summarize caregiver experiences and concerns. Mann–Whitney U tests assess the differences in caregiver knowledge and preparedness between caregivers who did and did not receive psychological services. Results: Caregivers reported difficult emotions at diagnosis and expressed concern for the impact of diagnosis and treatment across broad domains of patient functioning. Caregivers of patients who received psychology consultation felt more informed about difficult emotions and how these may change over time. They felt more prepared and equipped with strategies to manage difficult emotions. Caregivers of patients who completed a cognitive assessment also felt more informed and prepared regarding the potential effects of the diagnosis and treatment on patient cognitive/academic functioning. Conclusions: Psychological services were associated with caregivers’ positive perceptions surrounding the management of difficult emotions and with their knowledge regarding the cognitive/academic impact. The results inform the ongoing modification of NOPP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

18 pages, 632 KiB  
Review
Therapeutic Parent–Child Communication and Health Outcomes in the Childhood Cancer Context: A Scoping Review
by Heeyeon Son and Nani Kim
Cancers 2024, 16(11), 2152; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16112152 - 6 Jun 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1988
Abstract
Family communication has been thought to be an important area to support children’s adjustment to a cancer diagnosis. However, the characteristics of therapeutic parent–child communication that contribute to better patient outcomes and the specific patient health outcomes have been less explored. This current [...] Read more.
Family communication has been thought to be an important area to support children’s adjustment to a cancer diagnosis. However, the characteristics of therapeutic parent–child communication that contribute to better patient outcomes and the specific patient health outcomes have been less explored. This current review explored the characteristics of therapeutic parent–child communication and its physical and psychological health outcomes. A total of 5034 articles were initially identified, and only 10 articles remained for inclusion in this review after application of the exclusion criteria. Most studies used a cross-sectional design and measured verbal communication characteristics and its psychological outcomes, but no physical outcomes. The characteristics of therapeutic verbal communication (openness, maternal validation, quality of information shared, etc.) and nonverbal communication (eye contact, close physical distance, and acknowledging behaviors) were identified. The psychological health outcomes included less distress, a lower level of PTSS, less internalizing and externalizing of symptoms, increased levels of social emotional competencies, better peer relationships, and more cooperation during the procedure at the individual level. Increased family cohesion and family adaptation were family-level outcomes. Longitudinal studies are needed to identify what qualities of communication predict better psychological outcomes so that interventions can be developed and tested. In addition, physical outcomes should be evaluated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

13 pages, 433 KiB  
Commentary
Leveraging the Patient and Family Voice in the Development of Patient Education: Supporting the Pediatric Oncology Experience
by Anna M. Jones, Alyssa Marchetta, Kendra R. Parris, R. Elyse Heidelberg and Niki Jurbergs
Cancers 2025, 17(7), 1201; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17071201 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 279
Abstract
Given the understandable patient and caregiver distress that often fluctuates across treatment, especially at diagnosis and with major disease milestones, it is important to prioritize interventions that are known to best support families during these key times of transition. Individualized and time-sensitive psychoeducation [...] Read more.
Given the understandable patient and caregiver distress that often fluctuates across treatment, especially at diagnosis and with major disease milestones, it is important to prioritize interventions that are known to best support families during these key times of transition. Individualized and time-sensitive psychoeducation and anticipatory guidance are effective interventions in reducing distress and fostering adaptive coping across the cancer trajectory and are a standard for the psychosocial care of children with cancer and their families. Patient education materials have proven to be a flexible, accessible, cost-effective, and easily adaptable tool for delivering these interventions to this population. Moreover, within the field, there has been a call to action for the inclusion of patients and families in the development of research study design and clinical programming, recognizing them as the experts of their own experiences. This commentary aims to explore how patients and families can be actively involved in the creation, assessment, and implementation of patient education materials, fostering a collaborative partnership between families and clinicians. We provide detailed examples of this collaboration in the creation of patient education materials focused on promoting coping at diagnosis, supporting siblings and assisting with social reintegration at the end of treatment, promoting responsive caregiving for young children, and supporting caregiver coping through the creation of a podcast. Ultimately, this commentary seeks to emphasize the importance of partnering with patients and families to ensure their voices remain central to intervention development and implementation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pediatric and Adolescent Psycho-Oncology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-10
Back to TopTop