Psychosocial Interventions to Improve Wellbeing in Teenage and Young Adult Post-Treatment Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Objective: This systematic review explores psychosocial interventions aimed at improving the well-being of teenage and young adult (TYA) survivors of childhood cancer. It focuses on post-treatment survivors aged 13-39 years, examining the types of interventions trialled, their efficacy in enhancing different facets of mental well-being, and any potential negative impacts. The review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO and utilised randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to assess psychosocial interventions such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, psychoeducation, peer support, and physical activity programmes.

Methods: Fifteen studies involving 1109 participants were included, covering interventions across multiple modes of delivery; online, in-person, and app-based.

Results: Interventions demonstrated varied effects on outcomes like quality of life, depression, anxiety, stress, mood, behaviour, coping skills, and social support. While some interventions, such as psychoeducation and physical activity programs, showed promising improvements in well-being, others demonstrated limited or mixed results. No significant adverse effects were reported.

Conclusions: The heterogeneity of interventions and outcome measures pose challenges for definitive conclusions, emphasising the need for future research with standardised measures, consistent sample sizes, and long-term follow-up to better assess the sustainability of intervention effects. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of tailored psychosocial support to address the unique needs of TYA cancer survivors during their survivorship journey.