Mindfulness-based group interventions appear to have utility in this patient group and show promise for reducing anxiety, avoidance, and fear of cancer recurrence. Peer learning appeared to be helpful in generating acceptance of advancing disease.

Backgrounds and Methods:This study reviews the clinical features and reports the preliminary results of treatment of 34 consecutive patients with clinically significant bleeding from chronic, radiation-induced proctitis, using a combination of endoscopic YAG Laser and the application of topical formalin dressings to the rectal rnucosa. Results: Bleeding ceased in 25 patients (74%); bleeding continued but occurred only slightly and occasionally in five patients (15%); and three patients required operation to control the bleeding (9%). One patient relapsed after treatment and died while receiving a further transfusion. Conclusions: This experience has been used to develop a management protocol for patients with this serious complication.

The RBQOLS is a reliable and valid device for assessing quality of life of patients with this uncommon, previously intractable and potentially life threatening complication of radiotherapy.

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