Poster Presentation Clinical Oncology Society of Australia Annual Scientific Meeting 2023

The role of support groups for people living with metastatic breast cancer in Australia (#477)

Grace Mackie 1 , Jasmine Ekaterina Persson 1 , Sophie Lewis 2 , Frances Boyle 1 3 , Andrea Smith 4
  1. Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
  2. Sydney School of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
  3. Mater Hospital, North Sydney, NSW, Australia
  4. Daffodil Centre, University of Sydney, a joint venture with Cancer Council NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia

Background

Research shows that support groups can help people living with breast cancer to cope better with the psychosocial impacts of their diagnosis and treatment. Yet, there remains relatively limited exploration of the value of support groups for those living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). To address this gap, this study aimed to explore the perspectives of people living with MBC on the value of support groups, and key factors that encourage or hinder group attendance.

Methods

Participants were recruited via promotional material distributed by cancer and breast cancer organisations, and direct recruitment through clinicians and support group facilitators. Recruitment ceased once thematic saturation was reached. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 women living with MBC. Data were analysed using an inductive approach to thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes were identified: (1) the value of shared experiential knowledge; (2) a safe space for open and honest discussions; (3) finding connection and community. Women who attended stage-specific MBC support groups highlighted the importance of their group as an avenue of much-needed connection to others with MBC, thereby reducing isolation and normalising their diagnosis. Other valued aspects of a support group included information sharing and relief of emotional burden on family and friends. Participants reported that support groups were particularly beneficial in sharing feelings or experiences that were difficult to discuss with loved ones. Reasons for not attending groups included a negative perception of support groups, concern about dealing with the inevitable death of other group members, and satisfaction with existing support networks. Stage-specificity and professional facilitation were identified as important aspects of group structure.

Conclusions

People living with MBC in Australia have little opportunity to connect to others with the same diagnosis. For some, stage-specific support groups address this critical supportive care gap. However, others may prefer to connect online or one-on-one, or else feel sufficiently supported by family and friends.