Promoting adjustment among women with breast cancer and their partners: a program of research

A three-phase program of research consisted of: (1) data collection at eight data points across one year on predictors and outcomes of adjustment among 128 women diagnosed with breast cancer and 121 partners; (2) development of phase-specific interventions: standardized education by videotape (SE), and telephone counseling (TC); and (3) a pilot study among 12 patient-partner pairs. Four phases were identified: diagnostic, post-surgical, adjuvant therapy, and ongoing recovery. Needs were categorized as those related to: (1) physical well-being, (2) emotional well-being; (3) support; and (4) the healthcare system. In the pilot study, each group consisted of 4 patient-partner pairs, randomly assigned to one of four groups. At each of the four phases, all groups received the currently accepted disease management (DM). Group 1: DM * Group 2: DM+SE * Group 3: DM+TC * Group 4: DM+SE+TC. Measures of outcomes validated in the longitudinal study were administered. The feasibility of a confirmatory randomized clinical trial was demonstrated. Preliminary evidence indicates the importance of research-based, phase-specific educational and counseling interventions that have a positive effect on adjustment among both patients and their families.