Availability and Characteristics of Support Groups for People With Head and Neck Cancer in Australia

Support groups are an effective way to improve quality of life (QoL) in cancer patients. Targeted support groups for head and neck cancer (HNC) can also help patients address specific treatment and survivorship challenges. The aim of this study is to understand the characteristics of existing HNC support groups in the Australian setting and identify any gaps in service provision.

Existing HNC support groups were identified through an online search and their online information was assessed by adopting the perspective of a person with HNC. Support groups were considered eligible for this study if they were based in Australia and served HNC patients, their caregivers, friends, or family members.

Of the 26 support groups identified in the online search, more than half were based in major cities (n = 16) with three support groups across inner regional areas and three across outer regional areas. There were no support groups identified in remote areas of Australia. Most support groups took place in-person (n = 18) across a variety of physical settings, including hospitals (n = 10) and community spaces (n = 7). Topics frequently covered included: Education and information, sharing experiences and socializing, treatment and side effects, wellness and well-being, and carer support.

There is a need for HNC support groups outside of metropolitan areas, particularly in remote Australia. We must therefore identify means of supporting current and future groups in providing and promoting their valuable service to HNC patients across all locales.