Children's knowledge of cancer and its treatment: impact of an oncology camp experience

Abstract

Because pediatric oncology camps provide an opportunity for children who have had cancer to interact with their peers in an informal, recreational environment, this study was designed to determine (1) whether cancer and its treatment are discussed informally among the children, (2) what kinds of information are exchanged if such discussions take place, and (3) how these interactions might affect the children's knowledge and understanding of cancer and its treatment. The study included detailed, open-ended, structured interviews and observational accounts of the subjects before, during, and after camp. These interviews and observations in a sample of 50 children revealed that the children engaged in informal discussion about cancer and its treatment, and that information on a variety of topics, ranging from medical procedures to prognosis, was exchanged. Despite the lack of formal instruction, there was a significant increase in the children's knowledge about cancer and its treatment. Age, sex, diagnosis, years since diagnosis, treatment status and times at camp were not found to be significant determinants of gain in knowledge. No control group was studied, but we believe that the data support the conclusion that attending a camp for children with cancer improves their knowledge of the disease and its treatment.