Do couple-based interventions make a difference for couples affected by cancer? A systematic review.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychosocial Oncology
• Systematic Review

Background:

• Growing recognition of patients and partners as an interdependent system in cancer diagnosis.
• Increasing evidence supports psychosocial interventions for both patients and partners.
• Recent focus on couple-based interventions for cancer patients and their partners.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify existing couple-based interventions for cancer patients and partners.
• Explore the efficacy of these interventions, including added value over individual-focused approaches.
• Examine intervention content, delivery, and key elements promoting adjustment to cancer.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of experimental and quasi-experimental studies (1990-2011).
• Inclusion criteria: psychosocial interventions for couples affected by cancer, assessing psychological distress or quality of life.
• Exclusion criteria: non-English/French publications, non-psychosocial components, no psychological outcome assessment.

Main Results:

• 23 studies included; couple-based interventions improved communication, psychological distress, and relationship functioning.
• Limited impact on physical distress and social adjustment.
• Interventions primarily focused on communication and understanding; delivered by nurses or psychologists; in-person delivery most common.

Conclusions:

• Couple-based interventions appear as efficacious as patient-only or caregiver-only interventions.
• These interventions enhance psychosocial adjustment for both patients and partners.
• Wider adoption is needed, but evidence is promising for reducing distress and improving coping.