Interventions to Reduce Fear of Cancer Recurrence Among People With Cancer: Scoping Review.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychology
• Evidence Synthesis

Background:

• Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) affects 39-97% of cancer survivors, impacting quality of life and increasing distress.
• Existing literature lacks a comprehensive review of psychological interventions for FCR.
• FCR is linked to impaired concentration, sleep issues, and higher healthcare utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and summarize evidence on psychological interventions for FCR across all cancer types.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of current research on FCR interventions.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR checklist.
• Searched 5 databases (CINAHL, PsycInfo, Cochrane, Embase, MEDLINE) and 2 gray literature sources.
• Included studies evaluated psychological interventions for FCR in adults (≥18 years).

Main Results:

• 122 studies were included, with 39.3% focusing on breast cancer and 38.5% on multiple cancer types.
• Blended interventions (31.1%), cognitive behavioral therapy (21.3%), and mindfulness-based interventions (19.7%) were most common.
• 85.2% of studies demonstrated significant reductions in FCR, primarily through face-to-face delivery by specialists.

Conclusions:

• Most psychological interventions effectively reduce FCR, with significant positive outcomes reported.
• Heterogeneity in intervention delivery, duration, and dose necessitates cautious interpretation.
• Future research should standardize FCR definitions, measurement tools, and follow-up protocols for consistent evaluation.