A systematic review of psychosocial interventions for colorectal cancer patients

Abstract

Purpose A significant minority of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients experience clinically meaningful distress that may warrant intervention. The goal of this systematic review was to assess the impact of psychosocial interventions on quality-of-life and psychosocial outcomes for CRC patients. Methods A systematic search of CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and PsycARTICLES was undertaken to obtain relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published through October 2016. Results Fourteen RCTs of psychosocial interventions for CRC patients were identified. Only three of these RCTs showed significant intervention effects on multiple mental health outcomes. These interventions included written and verbal emotional expression, progressive muscle relaxation training, and a self-efficacy enhancing intervention. Eight of the 14 trials, testing a range of psychoeducational and supportive care interventions, produced little to no effects on study outcomes. An evaluation of RCT quality highlighted the need for greater rigor in study methods and reporting. Conclusion A limited evidence base supports the efficacy of psychosocial interventions for CRC patients. Large-scale trials are needed before drawing definitive conclusions regarding intervention impact.

Prospective evaluation of the quality of life of patients undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer depending on the surgical technique

“…Therefore, our study results differ in many ways from those of other authors. Randomized studies and meta-analyses demonstrate that patients who receive psychological support over the course of treatment for colorectal cancer have improved quality of life [23][24][25][26].…”

Alternative Treatments for Cancer Prevention and Cure [Part 1]

“…Acceptance and commitment therapy, meta-cognitive therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies emphasize mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive flexibility, and patient values changes in self-efficacy or confidence in using coping skills targeted by the intervention, acceptance of unwanted thoughts and feelings, or enhanced social support as well as physiological mechanisms (e.g., decreased arousal to negative thoughts and feelings about cancer) [592]. Combined CBT/GET improves fatigue and functional outcomes for a subset of patients with post-cancer fatigue in breast or colon cancer [593]. CBT intervention has the potential to ease acute anxiety during the often-challenging re-entry phase and to prevent the development of chronic, debilitating, and costly anxiety [594].…”

Health professionals’ perceptions of colorectal cancer patients’ treatment burden and their supportive work to ameliorate the burden - a qualitative study

“…The transition from acute treatment to cancer survivorship at home or in the community setting is often poorly managed, and cancer survivors report that they often feel unprepared for the post-treatment period [12][13]. Importantly, patients with CRC also express requirements for support in terms of addressing their fear of cancer reoccurrence, receiving nutritional advice and information, and self-managing symptoms at home [14][15][16][17][18]. Depending on their course of treatment, patients with CRC have limited contact with gastric surgery specialists and are most likely in need of support from other HPs in relation to both cancer-specific and general symptoms [19].…”