FOCUS On Us: Adapting a Psychosocial Intervention for LGBTQ+ Cancer Patients and Caregivers Using Community Feedback

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Services Research
• Psychosocial Oncology

Background:

• LGBTQ+ cancer survivors and caregivers experience poorer quality of life compared to heterosexual/cisgender peers.
• Existing interventions to improve wellbeing for LGBTQ+ cancer survivors are limited.
• There is a critical need for tailored supportive care for LGBTQ+ individuals navigating cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt the evidence-based FOCUS Program for LGBTQ+ cancer survivors and caregivers.
• To incorporate LGBTQ+-specific needs and concerns into a supportive care intervention.
• To present findings from focus groups conducted during the adaptation phase.

Main Methods:

• Conducted 9 focus groups with 45 LGBTQ+ cancer survivors and caregivers.
• Utilized qualitative thematic analysis (Framework Method) of transcribed interviews.
• Gathered feedback on the 5 FOCUS domains and intervention delivery.

Main Results:

• Key adaptations include acknowledging chosen family, addressing minority stress, and tailoring support for body image/gender identity concerns.
• Participants suggested addressing legal issues, long-distance caregiving, and online resource appraisal.
• Identified needs for LGBTQ+-specific support resources and self-advocacy guidance.

Conclusions:

• Participant feedback successfully informed the adaptation of the FOCUS Program into
• FOCUS On Us
• a manualized intervention.
• This adapted intervention addresses a significant gap in supportive cancer care for the LGBTQ+ community.
• The study provides a foundation for delivering culturally competent and evidence-based support to LGBTQ+ cancer survivors and caregivers.