A qualitative study of the post-treatment experiences and support needs of survivors of lymphoma

There are an estimated 6000 new cases of lymphoma in Australia each year. There are also over 20,000 people currently living with lymphoma. There are many late and long-term side effects for patients who undergo treatment for lymphoma. These effects can include fatigue, nutritional and physical activity deficits; fertility and relationship concerns. There is limited evidence to inform the development of patient-focused haematology survivorship services in Australia. This paper reports on the post-treatment experiences and needs of survivors of lymphoma to inform the development of an effective support model for these patients. Using thematic analysis of two focus groups PC4 member Leanne Monterosso and her team identified five key themes – information, loss and uncertainty, family support and post-treatment experience, transition and connectivity, and person-centered post-treatment care. The results around the theme of information highlighted the need for flexible services that can cater to wide range of post-treatment needs. Patients found it important to be able to easily contact a health professional to seek reassurance or get advice and information. Overall, this study suggests that the integration of professional or peer support strategies may be the most effective method to support patients. These support strategies could be coordinated by specialist haematology nurses across the tertiary and community settings.   Read the full article here.