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Illness Perceptions in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Testing Leventhal's Self-regulatory Model
Travis D Westbrook1, Eleshia J Morrison2, Kami J Maddocks3
1Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus.
Summary
Illness perceptions in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients vary by disease stage. Later-stage patients (relapsed/refractory) report more negative perceptions than those on active surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Health Psychology
- Oncology
- Behavioral Medicine
Background:
- Leventhal's Self-regulatory Model posits symptom severity and prior experience shape illness perceptions.
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) presents distinct phases (active surveillance, first treatment, relapsed/refractory) suitable for testing this model.
- These phases differ in symptom severity and prior treatment history.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate symptom severity and prior treatment experience as determinants of illness perceptions in CLL patients.
- To characterize and contrast illness perceptions across different stages of CLL.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed 330 CLL patients across three groups: active surveillance (AS, n=100), first treatment (FT, n=78), and relapsed/refractory (RR, n=152).
- Collected illness perception data during surveillance visits (AS) or pre-treatment (FT, RR).
Main Results:
- Relapsed/refractory (RR) patients reported the least favorable perceptions of consequences, identity, and concern.
- Active surveillance (AS) patients perceived the illness as more chronic and less coherent.
- First treatment (FT) patients reported higher levels of personal and treatment control.
Conclusions:
- Findings offer preliminary support for the Self-regulatory Model in the context of CLL.
- Later-stage CLL patients experience more negative illness perceptions, warranting clinical attention.
- Active surveillance patients may have unique informational needs.