Dialogue among survivors of hematopoietic cell transplantation support-group themes

Many survivors of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) are challenged by physical, psychological, and social complications throughout the months and years post-transplant, as uncovered by many researchers during the past few years. The literature on the use of support groups for improving quality of life has mostly included studies of participants with solid tumor cancers. There is a paucity of literature describing the use of support groups with HCT survivors. The purpose of the present study is to describe the various issues that are discussed by participants in a monthly post-HCT support group. These issues have been described and grouped into themes by the authors. The results can provide a foundation about long-term effects of HCT that future research can investigate more closely, followed by research that can study interventions to assist in improving quality of life of HCT survivors. Recommendations for applying findings to current clinical practice using support groups are identified.