Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103108
Sílvia Reis , Teresa Neves , Rui Gonçalves
Background
Impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa may be a side effect of treatment for haematological cancer (HC), particularly chemotherapy and monoclonal antibodies. It can have physical and psychological consequences, interrupt or delay treatment and, in more serious situations, become life-threatening.
Purpose
The aim was to describe the experience of people with HC and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa after chemotherapy and monoclonal antibody treatments.
Methods
A descriptive study of an interpretative nature, with nine semi-structured interviews carried out between November 2024 and March 2025. The reflective thematic analysis method was used to identify, analyse and interpret patterns of meaning present in the data.
Results
The analysis of the interviews revealed two main themes and seven sub-themes describing the experiences of people with haemato-oncological disease and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa: 1) implications (physical, on activities of daily living, socio-family, emotional and on the development of the disease) and 2) strategies (adaptive and management).
Conclusions
This research contributed to a little-explored area, aiming to better tailor responses to the needs of people with haemato-oncological disease and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa.
{"title":"Experiences of people with haematological cancer and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa: A qualitative study","authors":"Sílvia Reis , Teresa Neves , Rui Gonçalves","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103108","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103108","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa may be a side effect of treatment for haematological cancer (HC), particularly chemotherapy and monoclonal antibodies. It can have physical and psychological consequences, interrupt or delay treatment and, in more serious situations, become life-threatening.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>The aim was to describe the experience of people with HC and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa after chemotherapy and monoclonal antibody treatments.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A descriptive study of an interpretative nature, with nine semi-structured interviews carried out between November 2024 and March 2025. The reflective thematic analysis method was used to identify, analyse and interpret patterns of meaning present in the data.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The analysis of the interviews revealed two main themes and seven sub-themes describing the experiences of people with haemato-oncological disease and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa: 1) implications (physical, on activities of daily living, socio-family, emotional and on the development of the disease) and 2) strategies (adaptive and management).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This research contributed to a little-explored area, aiming to better tailor responses to the needs of people with haemato-oncological disease and impaired integrity of the skin and perianal mucosa.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103108"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146068402","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2025-11-27DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103066
Feifei Zhang , Qingfeng Wang , Hong Chen , Zhuyue Li , Xiaolian Jiang
Purpose
To explore the cancer-related fatigue(CRF) trajectories and their predictors of gastric cancer patients undergoing 6-cycle chemotherapy, and to identify subgroup characteristics of patients with different CRF trajectories.
Methods
A prospective longitudinal study was conducted between November 2020 and December 2021, involving 189 first-time chemotherapy gastric cancer patients at a tertiary general hospital in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. Data were collected 7 times within 6 chemotherapy cycles (before the first cycle(T0), and within 1 week after the end of each cycle (T1∼T6)).The CRF level was assessed by the Cancer Fatigue Scale. Growth mixture modeling was used to identify the latent classes of CRF trajectories. Group differences analyses were performed to determine characteristics of patients with different CRF trajectories, and multivariate regression analysis was adopted to identify predictors of CRF trajectories.
Results
The overall CRF level increased over time, with the greatest change from T0 to T1. Three CRF trajectories were identified: the acute fatigue group(Class1:23.8 %), the low fatigue group(Class2:59.8 %), and the gradually worsening fatigue group(Class3:16.4 %). Patients with pain or depression were more likely to be in the acute fatigue group, and female were more likely to be in the gradually worsening fatigue group, compared with the low fatigue group.
Conclusions
The overall CRF trajectory and three sub-trajectories were identified. Patients with pain, depression, and being female are prone to CRF deterioration. Since CRF level increases fastest from T0 to T1, early prevention and management of CRF should be implemented in gastric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
{"title":"The trajectories and predictors of cancer-related fatigue in gastric cancer patients during chemotherapy: A longitudinal study using growth mixture modeling","authors":"Feifei Zhang , Qingfeng Wang , Hong Chen , Zhuyue Li , Xiaolian Jiang","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103066","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103066","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>To explore the cancer-related fatigue<strong>(</strong>CRF) trajectories and their predictors of gastric cancer patients undergoing 6-cycle chemotherapy, and to identify subgroup characteristics of patients with different CRF trajectories.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A prospective longitudinal study was conducted between November 2020 and December 2021, involving 189 first-time chemotherapy gastric cancer patients at a tertiary general hospital in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. Data were collected 7 times within 6 chemotherapy cycles (before the first cycle(T0), and within 1 week after the end of each cycle (T1∼T6)).The CRF level was assessed by the Cancer Fatigue Scale. Growth mixture modeling was used to identify the latent classes of CRF trajectories. Group differences analyses were performed to determine characteristics of patients with different CRF trajectories, and multivariate regression analysis was adopted to identify predictors of CRF trajectories.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The overall CRF level increased over time, with the greatest change from T0 to T1. Three CRF trajectories were identified: the acute fatigue group(Class1:23.8 %), the low fatigue group(Class2:59.8 %), and the gradually worsening fatigue group(Class3:16.4 %). Patients with pain or depression were more likely to be in the acute fatigue group, and female were more likely to be in the gradually worsening fatigue group, compared with the low fatigue group.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The overall CRF trajectory and three sub-trajectories were identified. Patients with pain, depression, and being female are prone to CRF deterioration. Since CRF level increases fastest from T0 to T1, early prevention and management of CRF should be implemented in gastric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103066"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077027","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2025-12-06DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103074
Eun-Jung Shim , Hyeju Ha , Chan-Woo Yeom , Kyung-Lak Son , Won-Hyoung Kim , Bong-Jin Hahm
Purpose
Social support is recognized as a key resource in cancer care, yet it remains unclear which types are most relevant for specific quality of life (QoL) domains and whether these associations vary by patient characteristics. This study examined the relative contribution of four social support types to QoL domains and the moderating effects of sociodemographic and clinical variables.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 157 adult cancer patients recruited from three university hospitals in Korea (April 2024–August 2025). Participants completed the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey and the WHOQOL-BREF. Relative importance analysis and moderation analyses were performed.
Results
Social support explained 11.1 %–25.9 % of variance in QoL domains. Positive social interaction contributed most to physical and environmental QoL, affectionate support to psychological health, and emotional/informational support to social relationships. Tangible support contributed least. Associations were stronger among married patients and those receiving treatment for recurrent cancer, with the latter also showing a stronger link between affectionate support and physical health. Higher ECOG scores were associated with weaker links between affectionate support and positive social interaction and physical health, but stronger links between tangible support and environmental QoL. Higher distress was associated with weaker links between positive social interaction and physical health. No moderation effects were found for age, sex, or psychological QoL.
Conclusions
Associations between support types and QoL varied by domain and patient characteristics, suggesting value of tailoring supportive care to optimize QoL in specific contexts.
{"title":"Which type of social support matters most—and for whom? A relative importance and moderation analysis of quality of life in cancer","authors":"Eun-Jung Shim , Hyeju Ha , Chan-Woo Yeom , Kyung-Lak Son , Won-Hyoung Kim , Bong-Jin Hahm","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103074","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103074","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div><em>Social support</em> is recognized as a key resource in cancer care, yet it remains unclear which types are most relevant for specific quality of life (QoL) domains and whether these associations vary by patient characteristics. This study examined the relative contribution of four social support types to QoL domains and the moderating effects of sociodemographic and clinical variables.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 157 adult cancer patients recruited from three university hospitals in Korea (April 2024–August 2025). Participants completed the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey and the WHOQOL-BREF. Relative importance analysis and moderation analyses were performed.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div><em>Social support</em> explained 11.1 %–25.9 % of variance in QoL domains. Positive social interaction contributed most to physical and environmental QoL, affectionate support to psychological health, and emotional/informational support to social relationships. Tangible support contributed least. Associations were stronger among married patients and those receiving treatment for recurrent cancer, with the latter also showing a stronger link between affectionate support and physical health. Higher ECOG scores were associated with weaker links between affectionate support and positive social interaction and physical health, but stronger links between tangible support and environmental QoL. Higher distress was associated with weaker links between positive social interaction and physical health. No moderation effects were found for age, sex, or psychological QoL.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Associations between support types and QoL varied by domain and patient characteristics, suggesting value of tailoring supportive care to optimize QoL in specific contexts.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103074"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077073","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2025-12-23DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103089
Madeleine Zackrisson , Emelie Blomqvist , Roshan Tofighi , Margareta Haag , Cecilia Ungerstedt , Axel Wolf , Karin Ahlberg
Purpose
To explore young women's experiences during the pre-, peri-, and post-diagnostic phases of hormone-sensitive breast cancer and survivorship.
Method
A descriptive qualitative secondary analysis was conducted with ten women aged 28–39, diagnosed within five years and recruited via two national Swedish patient organizations. Semi-structured interviews were conducted virtually or by phone, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed inductively using qualitative content analysis.
Results
The analysis revealed one overarching theme, Navigating Uncertainty in the Journey Through Breast Cancer, capturing young women's experiences across diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Five descriptive categories illustrated key aspects of this journey: Experiences of Neglect While Seeking Care for Breast Cancer Symptoms; The Lack of Age-Specific Support in Healthcare; Seeking Knowledge, Regaining Control, and Developing Coping Strategies; Balancing Parenthood and Cancer Treatment; and Existential Anxiety and the Importance of Addressing Mortality.
Conclusions
Young women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer face unique challenges related to age bias, limited reproductive and psychosocial support, and existential distress. Tailored, age-sensitive, person-centered care is essential to address these needs and improve survivorship experiences.
{"title":"Exploring young women's experiences throughout the journey of hormone-sensitive breast cancer: A qualitative secondary analysis","authors":"Madeleine Zackrisson , Emelie Blomqvist , Roshan Tofighi , Margareta Haag , Cecilia Ungerstedt , Axel Wolf , Karin Ahlberg","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103089","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103089","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>To explore young women's experiences during the pre-, peri-, and post-diagnostic phases of hormone-sensitive breast cancer and survivorship.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>A descriptive qualitative secondary analysis was conducted with ten women aged 28–39, diagnosed within five years and recruited via two national Swedish patient organizations. Semi-structured interviews were conducted virtually or by phone, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed inductively using qualitative content analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The analysis revealed one overarching theme, Navigating Uncertainty in the Journey Through Breast Cancer, capturing young women's experiences across diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Five descriptive categories illustrated key aspects of this journey: Experiences of Neglect While Seeking Care for Breast Cancer Symptoms; The Lack of Age-Specific Support in Healthcare; Seeking Knowledge, Regaining Control, and Developing Coping Strategies; Balancing Parenthood and Cancer Treatment; and Existential Anxiety and the Importance of Addressing Mortality.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Young women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer face unique challenges related to age bias, limited reproductive and psychosocial support, and existential distress. Tailored, age-sensitive, person-centered care is essential to address these needs and improve survivorship experiences.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103089"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145999619","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2025-12-02DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103073
I. Levkovich , L. Hamama , S. Kuperman , M. Bar- Doron , Y. Hamama-Raz
Purpose
This study explores how peer support within Desert Journey, a nature-based group intervention developed by an Israeli non-governmental organization, shapes coping, belonging, and meaning among young cancer survivors. Grounded in a biopsychosocial and ecopsychological framework, we examine survivors’ lived experiences to identify that support rehabilitation.
Method
A qualitative approach was used to explore participants’ subjective experiences. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 participants who had completed Desert Journey within the past two years. Participants aged 29–44 years, all in the recovery stage, represented a range of cancer diagnoses. The interviews were conducted between March–May 2025, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically.
Results
Three central themes emerged: (1) “A group of strangers who just got it.” Participants described a profound sense of belonging and emotional validation through honest dialogue and nonverbal connection; (2) “An intimate space.” The desert setting fostered reflection on family, parenthood, and romantic relationships, allowing participants to voice complex emotions often silenced in daily life; (3) “There's something very overwhelming about being together all the time.” Some participants experienced emotional flooding, anxiety, and a need for solitude as the group process intensified.
Conclusions
Nature-based group interventions such as Desert Journey provide a unique therapeutic context for young cancer survivors by fostering emotional connection, peer support, and self-reflection. The findings highlight the potential of such programs to complement traditional survivorship care. Oncology nurses can play a critical role in identifying suitable patients, advocating for the integration of holistic interventions, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to enhance survivorship care.
{"title":"“You're not the only one who went through this”: Cancer survivors' reflections on peer encounters during the Desert Journey program","authors":"I. Levkovich , L. Hamama , S. Kuperman , M. Bar- Doron , Y. Hamama-Raz","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103073","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103073","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>This study explores how peer support within Desert Journey, a nature-based group intervention developed by an Israeli non-governmental organization, shapes coping, belonging, and meaning among young cancer survivors. Grounded in a biopsychosocial and ecopsychological framework, we examine survivors’ lived experiences to identify that support rehabilitation.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>A qualitative approach was used to explore participants’ subjective experiences. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 participants who had completed Desert Journey within the past two years. Participants aged 29–44 years, all in the recovery stage, represented a range of cancer diagnoses. The interviews were conducted between March–May 2025, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Three central themes emerged: (1) <em>“</em>A group of strangers who just got it.” Participants described a profound sense of belonging and emotional validation through honest dialogue and nonverbal connection; (2) “An intimate space.” The desert setting fostered reflection on family, parenthood, and romantic relationships, allowing participants to voice complex emotions often silenced in daily life; (3) “There's something very overwhelming about being together all the time.” Some participants experienced emotional flooding, anxiety, and a need for solitude as the group process intensified.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Nature-based group interventions such as Desert Journey provide a unique therapeutic context for young cancer survivors by fostering emotional connection, peer support, and self-reflection. The findings highlight the potential of such programs to complement traditional survivorship care. Oncology nurses can play a critical role in identifying suitable patients, advocating for the integration of holistic interventions, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to enhance survivorship care.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103073"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145693869","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2025-12-23DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103088
Xiaoyu Xu , Shuanghan Yu , Ma Jing , Yuan Liu , Wei Zhang
Purpose
Exploring the psychological distress of family caregivers of ovarian cancer patients in conjunction with the ABC-X model.
Methods
(i) Cross-sectional study. Between November 2022 and May 2023, 270 family caregivers were collected using convenience-sampled convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0. (ii) Descriptive qualitative study. Interview guides were designed based on the ABC-X model and quantitative results. From June to August 2023, 14 participants from the quantitative study were selected for semi-structured interviews using a maximum difference purposive sampling strategy. The interview data were compiled and analyzed using the content analysis method.
Results
(i) Among 258 FCGs, 74.4 % experienced psychological distress.Stratified regression results indicated significant predictive roles of lack of caregiving experience, self-efficacy, family resilience, and caregiving burden on caregiver psychological distress, with an R2 of 75.8 %. (ii) In-depth interviews revealed that the experience of psychological distress varied across individuals and was influenced by factors such as surrounding support, illness status, caregiving burden, and self-coping ability, and can also be denoted as “ABCDE”: “Assistance,” “Burden,” “Condition,” “Determination,” and “Emotion,” each comprising three corresponding sub-themes.
Conclusions
The psychological distress level among family caregivers is high, with approximately 3/4 of family caregivers experiencing distress. Future research could focus on reducing caregiving burden and targeting interventions to enhance family resilience and self-efficacy.
{"title":"A mixed methods study of psychological distress in family caregivers of ovarian cancer patients based on the ABC-X model","authors":"Xiaoyu Xu , Shuanghan Yu , Ma Jing , Yuan Liu , Wei Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103088","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103088","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>Exploring the psychological distress of family caregivers of ovarian cancer patients in conjunction with the ABC-X model.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>(i) Cross-sectional study. Between November 2022 and May 2023, 270 family caregivers were collected using convenience-sampled convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0. (ii) Descriptive qualitative study. Interview guides were designed based on the ABC-X model and quantitative results. From June to August 2023, 14 participants from the quantitative study were selected for semi-structured interviews using a maximum difference purposive sampling strategy. The interview data were compiled and analyzed using the content analysis method.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>(i) Among 258 FCGs, 74.4 % experienced psychological distress.Stratified regression results indicated significant predictive roles of lack of caregiving experience, self-efficacy, family resilience, and caregiving burden on caregiver psychological distress, with an R<sup>2</sup> of 75.8 %. (ii) In-depth interviews revealed that the experience of psychological distress varied across individuals and was influenced by factors such as surrounding support, illness status, caregiving burden, and self-coping ability, and can also be denoted as “ABCDE”: “Assistance,” “Burden,” “Condition,” “Determination,” and “Emotion,” each comprising three corresponding sub-themes.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The psychological distress level among family caregivers is high, with approximately 3/4 of family caregivers experiencing distress. Future research could focus on reducing caregiving burden and targeting interventions to enhance family resilience and self-efficacy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103088"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146013131","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2026-01-09DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103096
Helle Haslund-Thomsen , Dorte Ellegaard Jensen , Charlotte Timmermann Stuhr , Michelle Lind Kaptain , Maria Von Sehested Jæger
Purpose
This study aimed to explore adolescent and young adults with a cancer experience (AYA-CCEs’) body, identity and sexuality experiences and their need for hospital-based support during the cancer treatment trajectory, including subsequent outpatient follow-up.
Method
A qualitative study design with a hermeneutic approach. Twenty semi-structured individual interviews and one semi-structured focus group interview applying autobiography were conducted. The participants were adolescents and young adults (13–29) with completed cancer treatment or in actual treatment.
Results
Reflective thematic analysis generated four main themes: (i) bodily changes as reminders of cancer, (ii) falling behind and developing differently from peers, (iii) the impact of cancer treatment on fertility and (iv) the experience of sexuality. Overall, there was a pervasive experience of feeling different from peers. Being restricted or excluded from engaging in activities normally associated with youth affected the development of identity and exploration of their sexuality.
Conclusions
This study provides insights into AYA-CCE’ body, identity and sexuality experiences during the cancer trajectory and highlights their need for communication with healthcare professionals. AYA-CCEs experience physical discomfort, affecting their ability to participate in normal youth life and to express or live out their sexual needs. The expected course of youth life has taken a different path due to bodily and psychological changes, making it challenging to engage socially with peers and contributing to a sense of being left behind. Our findings suggest a need for AYA-CCEs to access specialized knowledge in a safe and supportive setting facilitated by healthcare professionals.
{"title":"Life took a different path: Experiences of body, identity and sexuality for adolescents and young adults with a cancer experience","authors":"Helle Haslund-Thomsen , Dorte Ellegaard Jensen , Charlotte Timmermann Stuhr , Michelle Lind Kaptain , Maria Von Sehested Jæger","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103096","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103096","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>This study aimed to explore adolescent and young adults with a cancer experience (AYA-CCEs’) body, identity and sexuality experiences and their need for hospital-based support during the cancer treatment trajectory, including subsequent outpatient follow-up.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>A qualitative study design with a hermeneutic approach. Twenty semi-structured individual interviews and one semi-structured focus group interview applying autobiography were conducted. The participants were adolescents and young adults (13–29) with completed cancer treatment or in actual treatment.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Reflective thematic analysis generated four main themes: (i) bodily changes as reminders of cancer, (ii) falling behind and developing differently from peers, (iii) the impact of cancer treatment on fertility and (iv) the experience of sexuality. Overall, there was a pervasive experience of feeling different from peers. Being restricted or excluded from engaging in activities normally associated with youth affected the development of identity and exploration of their sexuality.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study provides insights into AYA-CCE’ body, identity and sexuality experiences during the cancer trajectory and highlights their need for communication with healthcare professionals. AYA-CCEs experience physical discomfort, affecting their ability to participate in normal youth life and to express or live out their sexual needs. The expected course of youth life has taken a different path due to bodily and psychological changes, making it challenging to engage socially with peers and contributing to a sense of being left behind. Our findings suggest a need for AYA-CCEs to access specialized knowledge in a safe and supportive setting facilitated by healthcare professionals.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103096"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146031751","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2026-01-09DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103102
Amanda Drury , Maura Dowling , Sara Colomer-Lahiguera , Nikolaos Efstathiou , Cherith Semple , Paz Fernández-Ortega , Karin Brochstedt Dieperink , Eva Pape , Grigorios Kotronoulas , Susana Miguel , Gülcan Bağçivan , the European Oncology Nursing Society
Purpose
Identifying priority areas for cancer nursing research is essential for aligning research efforts with regional needs and improving outcomes for people affected by cancer. This Delphi study aimed to develop a strategic agenda of cancer nursing research priorities relevant to the European context.
Method
A panel of experts in cancer nursing practice, research, policy, and education participated in a three-round Delphi study. A total of 115 research topics across 11 thematic areas were pre-identified through a systematic review and consultation with cancer nurses. From September 2023 to March 2024, participants ranked the importance of each topic. Final prioritisation was based on weighted average rankings and an 80 % consensus threshold in round 3.
Results
Eighty-one cancer nursing experts participated in at least one round, with 57 completing all three rounds. In round 3, consensus was achieved for 73 of 123 items (59.3 %). The three highest-ranked thematic areas for future research were: 1) nurse-led care and models of cancer care, 2) unmet needs in cancer care, and 3) education, training, and professional development for nurses. The top three specific research priorities were: 1) understanding factors influencing recruitment, retention, and turnover within the European oncology nursing workforce, 2) evaluating the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions for people living with cancer, and 3) understanding risk factors for cancer diagnosis.
Conclusions
This study presents a consensus-based, regionally grounded research agenda for cancer nursing in Europe. The findings address urgent challenges in workforce sustainability, care models, and prevention, with implications for improving patient outcomes and guiding future nursing research.
{"title":"Consensus research priorities for cancer nursing in Europe: A Delphi study","authors":"Amanda Drury , Maura Dowling , Sara Colomer-Lahiguera , Nikolaos Efstathiou , Cherith Semple , Paz Fernández-Ortega , Karin Brochstedt Dieperink , Eva Pape , Grigorios Kotronoulas , Susana Miguel , Gülcan Bağçivan , the European Oncology Nursing Society","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103102","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2026.103102","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>Identifying priority areas for cancer nursing research is essential for aligning research efforts with regional needs and improving outcomes for people affected by cancer. This Delphi study aimed to develop a strategic agenda of cancer nursing research priorities relevant to the European context.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>A panel of experts in cancer nursing practice, research, policy, and education participated in a three-round Delphi study. A total of 115 research topics across 11 thematic areas were pre-identified through a systematic review and consultation with cancer nurses. From September 2023 to March 2024, participants ranked the importance of each topic. Final prioritisation was based on weighted average rankings and an 80 % consensus threshold in round 3.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Eighty-one cancer nursing experts participated in at least one round, with 57 completing all three rounds. In round 3, consensus was achieved for 73 of 123 items (59.3 %). The three highest-ranked thematic areas for future research were: 1) nurse-led care and models of cancer care, 2) unmet needs in cancer care, and 3) education, training, and professional development for nurses. The top three specific research priorities were: 1) understanding factors influencing recruitment, retention, and turnover within the European oncology nursing workforce, 2) evaluating the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions for people living with cancer, and 3) understanding risk factors for cancer diagnosis.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This study presents a consensus-based, regionally grounded research agenda for cancer nursing in Europe. The findings address urgent challenges in workforce sustainability, care models, and prevention, with implications for improving patient outcomes and guiding future nursing research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103102"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146031739","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2025-11-12DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103045
M.L. Martino , A. Nerini , E. Quarata , G. Facchini , C. Barraco , A. D'Arienzo , A. Nicastro , M. Cesaro , M.F. Freda , I. Bolognini
Purpose
The present study, filling a gap in the literature, aims at systematic review of studies with writing interventions addressed to cancer survivorship, examining the different writing paradigms used and related obtained effects.
Methods
This study was a systematic review. A literature search in MEDLINE/PubMed and PsycInfo from 2015 to 2025 was performed.
Results
Data extraction, researchers' full agreement and the inclusion criteria produced 11 eligible studies. They show six different paradigms of writing used in cancer survivorship capable of addressing three different trajectories of effects: Psychopathological Symptoms: Expressive Writing (EW), Self-Regulation Writing; Bio-psycho-social well-being promotion: EW, Prosocial/Peer Help Writing, Gratitude Journaling, Written Guides. Body Image and Side Effects of Self-Management: EW; Focused Reflective Writing, Self-Compassion EW. Writing, in its plurality of paradigms and methods, appears a key tool used in cancer survivorship, mainly with breast cancer survivors; other types of cancer are underestimated. Cultural and demographic diversity is limited and most interventions are self-managed, online, or postal, with minimal clinical feedback.
Conclusions
Efforts are needed to clarify issues related to sample selection time from diagnosis -survisvorship vs long survivorship; stratification of age sample groups - under fifty vs over 50; to focus on other types of cancer in addition to breast cancer; to enrich the use of other writing paradigms like autobiographical writing, autopathography, and memory-based writing and to implement hybrid delivery formats.
{"title":"Writing interventions with cancer survivors: which paradigms for which effects? A systematic review","authors":"M.L. Martino , A. Nerini , E. Quarata , G. Facchini , C. Barraco , A. D'Arienzo , A. Nicastro , M. Cesaro , M.F. Freda , I. Bolognini","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103045","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103045","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>The present study, filling a gap in the literature, aims at systematic review of studies with writing interventions addressed to cancer survivorship, examining the different writing paradigms used and related obtained effects.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This study was a systematic review. A literature search in MEDLINE/PubMed and PsycInfo from 2015 to 2025 was performed.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Data extraction, researchers' full agreement and the inclusion criteria produced 11 eligible studies. They show six different paradigms of writing used in cancer survivorship capable of addressing three different trajectories of effects: <em>Psychopathological Symptoms</em>: Expressive Writing (EW), Self-Regulation Writing; <em>Bio-psycho-social well-being promotion</em>: EW, Prosocial/Peer Help Writing, Gratitude Journaling, Written Guides. <em>Body Image and Side Effects of Self-Management:</em> EW; Focused Reflective Writing, Self-Compassion EW. Writing, in its plurality of paradigms and methods, appears a key tool used in cancer survivorship, mainly with breast cancer survivors; other types of cancer are underestimated. Cultural and demographic diversity is limited and most interventions are self-managed, online, or postal, with minimal clinical feedback.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Efforts are needed to clarify issues related to sample selection time from diagnosis -survisvorship vs long survivorship; stratification of age sample groups - under fifty vs over 50; to focus on other types of cancer in addition to breast cancer; to enrich the use of other writing paradigms like autobiographical writing, autopathography, and memory-based writing and to implement hybrid delivery formats.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103045"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077074","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-01Epub Date: 2025-12-05DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103071
M. Dornan, I. Rodriguez-Matesanz, D. Protogiros, H. Ozdemir Koyu, C. Barnardo, H. McCallig, N. Aguado-Machancoses, N. Politis
Purpose
This study explores how early-career cancer nurses across Europe conceptualise and deliver survivorship care, a growing priority in oncology nursing.
Methods
An exploratory qualitative design was used, involving a written reflection and focus group with seven early-career nurses from the European Oncology Nursing Society. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to identify patterns in perceptions and practice.
Findings
Three themes were identified: (1) Reframing Survivorship, where nurses challenged traditional definitions and advocated for a continuum-based approach; (2) Managing the Emotional Dimensions, highlighting the emotional needs of patients, caregivers, and nurses themselves; and (3) Empowering the Workforce, revealing gaps in education, autonomy, and access to resources. Participants called for tiered competencies, interprofessional learning, and better integration of survivorship care across settings.
Conclusion
The findings point to the need for clearer definitions, emotional support structures, and investment in nursing education and leadership. Early-career perspectives offer valuable insights for shaping future survivorship care models and workforce development.
{"title":"Reflections and experiences of early career cancer nurses on cancer survivorship in Europe: A qualitative study","authors":"M. Dornan, I. Rodriguez-Matesanz, D. Protogiros, H. Ozdemir Koyu, C. Barnardo, H. McCallig, N. Aguado-Machancoses, N. Politis","doi":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103071","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.ejon.2025.103071","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>This study explores how early-career cancer nurses across Europe conceptualise and deliver survivorship care, a growing priority in oncology nursing.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>An exploratory qualitative design was used, involving a written reflection and focus group with seven early-career nurses from the European Oncology Nursing Society. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to identify patterns in perceptions and practice.</div></div><div><h3>Findings</h3><div>Three themes were identified: (1) Reframing Survivorship, where nurses challenged traditional definitions and advocated for a continuum-based approach; (2) Managing the Emotional Dimensions, highlighting the emotional needs of patients, caregivers, and nurses themselves; and (3) Empowering the Workforce, revealing gaps in education, autonomy, and access to resources. Participants called for tiered competencies, interprofessional learning, and better integration of survivorship care across settings.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The findings point to the need for clearer definitions, emotional support structures, and investment in nursing education and leadership. Early-career perspectives offer valuable insights for shaping future survivorship care models and workforce development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51048,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Oncology Nursing","volume":"80 ","pages":"Article 103071"},"PeriodicalIF":2.7,"publicationDate":"2026-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077072","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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