Cancer support
Searched over 200M research papers for "cancer support"
Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that social support improves emotional state, quality of life, and coping mechanisms for cancer patients and their families, though its impact on survival rates is inconclusive.
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The Role of Social Support in Cancer Care
Importance of Social Support in Cancer Progression
Structural and Functional Support in Cancer
Social support plays a crucial role in the progression of cancer, particularly in breast cancer. Research indicates that structural support, such as the presence of a robust social network, is more frequently associated with positive outcomes in disease progression compared to functional support, which includes emotional and practical assistance. However, the evidence is less convincing for other types of cancer, suggesting that the impact of social support may vary depending on the cancer type and other disease-related variables.
Emotional and Practical Support
Emotional support, especially from healthcare providers, is seen as particularly beneficial for cancer patients. It helps them adjust to the stress of the disease and improves their overall well-being. Practical support, such as advice and assistance with daily tasks, also plays a significant role in helping patients manage their condition.
Cancer Support Groups
Benefits of Support Groups
Support groups for cancer patients have been shown to provide significant emotional and psychological benefits. Participation in these groups is associated with improvements in emotional state, quality of life, and adaptation to illness. High levels of consumer satisfaction have been reported, and outcome evaluations substantiate the morale and quality of life benefits, although they do not necessarily prolong life.
Nursing and Support Groups
Nurses play a vital role in promoting participation in support groups. These groups help patients with cancer by providing emotional support and strengthening their adaptation to the disease. Meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials have confirmed the positive impact of support group participation on various aspects of a patient's life, including emotional well-being and marital relationships.
Social Support for Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Survivors
Long-term Importance of Social Support
For childhood and adolescent cancer survivors, social support remains crucial even years after treatment has finished. It helps them cope with the ongoing challenges they face and reduces stress. Support from parents, especially mothers, and friends is extremely important, although support from friends is often less satisfactory.
Parental Support
Parents of children with cancer also benefit significantly from social support. It is positively related to their well-being and negatively related to distress, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress. Family and significant others are the most prevalent sources of support, with emotional support being the most received type.
Nutritional Support in Cancer Care
Impact on Mortality and Quality of Life
Nutritional support during hospital stays has been shown to reduce mortality and improve functional and quality of life outcomes in cancer patients. Individualized nutritional support, compared to standard hospital food, significantly lowers the risk of mortality and enhances patients' overall well-being.
Conclusion
Social support, whether structural or functional, plays a vital role in the progression and management of cancer. Support groups, emotional and practical support, and nutritional care are all critical components that contribute to the well-being of cancer patients and their families. Future research should continue to explore the specific mechanisms through which social support influences health outcomes and how best to integrate these findings into clinical practice.
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