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Published on: October 3, 2020
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Fear of progression.
Peter Herschbach1, Andreas Dinkel
1Roman-Herzog-Krebszentrum (RHCCC), Klinikum rechts der Isar Technische Universität München, Trogerstraße26, 81675, Munich, Germany, p.herschbach@lrz.tum.de.
Summary
Fear of progression, a common distress in cancer patients, can be effectively managed. Brief group therapy shows promise in treating dysfunctional fear of progression, improving quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychology
- Health Sciences
Background:
- Fear of progression (FOP) is a common and rational response to cancer, but elevated levels can be dysfunctional.
- FOP significantly impacts patient well-being, quality of life, and social functioning.
- It is a frequent distress symptom in patients with cancer and chronic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the lack of consensus on clinically relevant FOP states.
- To highlight the unmet needs of patients in managing FOP.
- To investigate effective psychological treatments for clinical levels of FOP.
Main Methods:
- Systematic reviews estimating FOP prevalence.
- Analysis of patient-reported unmet needs.
- A targeted intervention study evaluating a brief group therapy.
Main Results:
- Approximately 50% of cancer patients experience moderate to severe FOP.
- Many patients report unmet needs regarding FOP management.
- A brief group therapy intervention effectively treated dysfunctional FOP.
Conclusions:
- Dysfunctional FOP requires effective psychological interventions.
- Brief group therapy is a viable and effective treatment option for FOP.
- Further research and clinical implementation of FOP treatments are necessary.
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