Enhancing physical well-being and overall quality of life among underserved Latina-American cervical cancer survivors: feasibility study

Abstract

Introduction: Evidence for the effectiveness of behavioral interventions are lacking for cervical cancer survivors (CCS). Disparities in survivorship outcomes exist for CCS, especially Latina-Americans. This study assessed the feasibility of implementing a culturally sensitive intervention delivered in a telephonic format.

Methods: A convenience sample of 23 Latina-Americans diagnosed with stages 1-3 invasive cervical cancer who were 1-3 years post diagnosis and disease free participated. A random assignment, pre- and post-test design was used with 15 intervention and 8 control participants. Intervention group participants completed 6 sessions that included problem-focused, telephone counseling. The areas covered included family and partner concerns and communication; relaxation and stress management; psychological, medical and treatment concerns; and self-nurturing activities. Outcomes were measured by the FACT-G QOL scale.

Results: Increases in physical well-being and overall QOL were observed for the intervention group only (p < 0.05). The intervention group showed a non significant trend towards improvements in family/social, emotional and functional well-being from pre- to post-test.

Discussion: Results demonstrate the feasibility of implementing a culturally responsive, telephonic behavioral intervention. The intervention was associated with an improvement in physical and overall quality of life. A randomized controlled trial with a long term follow-up is warranted.

Implications for cancer survivors: An ethnically sensitive, behaviorally based telephone counseling approach with Latina Americans cervical cancer survivors can achieve short term improvements in physical well-being and overall QOL.