Coping with the physical and psychosocial sequelae of bone marrow transplantation among long-term survivors

We used a situation-specific approach to investigate common problems and associated coping processes among long-term survivors of bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Surveys were returned by 156 of the 191 (82%) eligible BMT survivors. Work and finance problems were endorsed relatively infrequently by respondents; physical problems and existential concerns were much more common. Problem occurrence was significantly related to demographic and treatment variables. The choice of coping mechanisms was related to the type of problem being faced: Significant effects were observed for four coping mechanisms from the COPE Inventory-active coping, suppression of competing activities, restraint, and acceptance. The differences were between one type of problem, infertility concern, and one or more of three other categories of problems (other physical problems, existential concerns, and work/finance problems) nominated by survivors. Some methodological considerations and directions for future research are outlined.