Skip to main page content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Dot gov

The .gov means it’s official.
Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

Https

The site is secure.
The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Access keys NCBI Homepage MyNCBI Homepage Main Content Main Navigation
. 2019 Jun 17;6(6):CD009912.
doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD009912.pub2.

Psychosocial interventions for informal caregivers of people living with cancer

Charlene J Treanor  1 , Olinda Santin, Gillian Prue, Helen Coleman, Chris R Cardwell, Peter O'Halloran, Michael Donnelly
Affiliations

Psychosocial interventions for informal caregivers of people living with cancer

Charlene J Treanor et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. .

Abstract

Background: Increasingly, cancer is recognised as a chronic condition with a growing population of informal caregivers providing care for cancer patients. Informal caregiving can negatively affect the health and well-being of caregivers. We need a synthesised account of best evidence to aid decision-making about effective ways to support caregivers for individuals 'living with cancer'.

Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions designed to improve the quality of life (QoL), physical health and well-being of informal caregivers of people living with cancer compared with usual care.

Search methods: We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, ProQuest, Open SIGLE, Web of Science from inception up to January 2018, trial registries and citation lists of included studies.

Selection criteria: We included randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing psychosocial interventions delivered to adult informal caregivers of adults affected by cancer on a group or individual basis with usual care. Psychosocial interventions included non-pharmacological interventions that involved an interpersonal relationship between caregivers and healthcare professionals. We included interventions delivered also to caregiver-patient dyads. Interventions delivered to caregivers of individuals receiving palliative or inpatient care were excluded. Our primary outcome was caregiver QoL. Secondary outcomes included patient QoL, caregiver and patient depression, anxiety, psychological distress, physical health status and intervention satisfaction and adverse effects.

Data collection and analysis: Pairs of review authors independently screened studies for eligibility, extracted data and conducted 'Risk of bias' assessments. We synthesised findings using meta-analysis, where possible, and reported remaining results in a narrative synthesis.

Main results: Nineteen trials (n = 3, 725) were included in the review. All trials were reported in English and were undertaken in high-income countries. Trials targeted caregivers of patients affected by a number of cancers spanning newly diagnosed patients, patients awaiting treatment, patients who were being treated currently and individuals post-treatment. Most trials delivered interventions to caregiver-patient dyads (predominantly spousal dyads) and there was variation in intervention delivery to groups or individual participants. There was much heterogeneity across interventions though the majority were defined as psycho-educational. All trials were rated as being at 'high risk of bias'.Compared to usual care, psychosocial interventions may improve slightly caregiver QoL immediately post intervention (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.04 to 0.53; studies = 2, 265 participants) and may have little to no effect on caregiver QoL at 12 months (SMD 0.14, 95% CI - 0.11 to 0.40; studies = 2, 239 participants) post-intervention (both low-quality evidence).Psychosocial interventions probably have little to no effect on caregiver depression immediately to one-month post-intervention (SMD 0.01, 95% CI -0.14 to 0.15; studies = 9, 702 participants) (moderate-quality evidence). Psychosocial interventions may have little to no effect on caregiver anxiety immediately post-intervention (SMD -0.12, 95 % CI -0.33 to 0.10; studies = 5, 329 participants), depression three-to-six months (SMD 0.03, 95% CI -0.33 to 0.38; studies = 5. 379 participants) post-intervention and patient QoL six to 12 months (SMD -0.05, 95% CI -0.37 to 0.26; studies = 3, 294 participants) post-intervention (all low-quality evidence). There was uncertainty whether psychosocial interventions improve patient QoL immediately (SMD -0.03, 95 %CI -0.50 to 0.44; studies = 2, 292 participants) or caregiver anxiety three-to-six months (SMD-0.25, 95% CI -0.64 to 0.13; studies = 4, 272 participants) post-intervention (both very low-quality evidence). Two studies which could not be pooled in a meta-analysis for caregiver physical health status found little to no effect immediately post-intervention and a small intervention effect 12 months post-intervention. Caregiver or patient satisfaction or cost-effectiveness of interventions were not assessed in any studies. Interventions demonstrated good feasibility and acceptability.Psychosocial interventions probably have little to no effect on patient physical health status immediately post-intervention (SMD 0.17, 95 % CI -0.07 to 0.41; studies = 4, 461 participants) and patient depression three to six months post-intervention (SMD-0.11, 95% CI -0.33 to 0.12; studies = 6, 534 participants) (both moderate-quality evidence).Psychosocial interventions may have little to no effect on caregiver psychological distress immediately to one-month (SMD -0.08, 95% CI -0.42 to 0.26; studies = 3, 134 participants), and seven to 12 months (SMD 0.08, 95% CI -0.42 to 0.58; studies = 2, 62 participants) post-intervention; patient depression immediately (SMD -0.12, 95% CI -0.31 to 0.07; studies = 9, 852 participants); anxiety immediately (SMD -0.13, 95% CI -0.41 to 0.15;studies = 4, 422 participants), and three to six months (SMD -0.22, 95% CI -0.45 to 0.02; studies = 4, 370 participants); psychological distress immediately (SMD -0.02, 95% CI -0.47 to 0.44; studies = 2, 74 participants) and seven to 12 months (SMD -0.27, 95% CI -0.78 to 0.24; studies = 2, 61 participants); and physical health status six to 12 months (SMD 0.06, 95% CI -0.18 to 0.30; studies = 2, 275 participants) post-intervention (all low-quality evidence).Three trials reported adverse effects associated with the interventions, compared with usual care, including higher distress, sexual function-related distress and lower relationship satisfaction levels for caregivers, higher distress levels for patients, and that some content was perceived as insensitive to some participants.Trials not able to be pooled in a meta-analysis did not tend to report effect size and it was difficult to discern intervention effectiveness. Variable intervention effects were reported for patient and caregiver outcomes.

Authors' conclusions: Heterogeneity across studies makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions regarding the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions for this population. There is an immediate need for rigorous trials with process evaluations and clearer, detailed intervention descriptions. Cost-effectiveness studies should be conducted alongside future trials.

PubMed Disclaimer

Conflict of interest statement

The review authors do not have any conflicts of interest to declare.

Figures

1
1
S tudy flow diagram.
2
2
'Risk of bias' graph: review authors' judgements about each risk of bias item presented as percentages across all included studies.
3
3
'Risk of bias' summary: review authors' judgements about each risk of bias item for each included study.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

Comment in

Similar articles

See all similar articles

Cited by

See all "Cited by" articles

References

References to studies included in this review

Baucom 2009 {published data only}
    1. Baucom DH, Porter LS, Kirby JS, Gremore TM, Wiesenthal N, Aldridge W, et al. A couple‐based intervention for female breast cancer. Psycho‐Oncology 2009;18:276‐83. - PubMed
Blanchard 1996 {published data only}
    1. Blanchard CG, Toseland RW, McCallion P. The effects of a problem‐solving intervention with spouses of cancer patients. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology 1996;14:1‐21.
    1. Toseland RW, Blanchard C, McCallion P. A problem solving intervention for caregivers of cancer patients. Social Science & Medicine 1995;40(4):517‐28. - PubMed
Budin 2008 {published data only}
    1. Budin WC, Hoskins CN, Haber J, Sherman DW, Maislin G, Cater JR, et al. Education, counselling, and adjustment among patients and partners: a randomized clinical trial. Nursing Research 2008;57:199‐213. - PubMed
Bultz 2000 {published data only}
    1. Bultz BD, Speca M, Brasher PM, Geggie PH, Page S. A randomized controlled trial of a brief psychoeducational support group for partners of early stage breast cancer patients. Psycho‐Oncology 2000;9:303‐13. - PubMed
Campbell 2007 {published data only}
    1. Campbell LC, Keefe FJ, Scipio C, McKee DC, Edwards CL, Herman SH, et al. Facilitating research participation and improving quality of life for African American prostate cancer survivors and their intimate partners: a pilot study of telephone‐based coping skills training. Cancer 2007;109:414‐24. - PubMed
Couper 2015 {published data only}
    1. Couper J, Collins A, Bloch S, Street A, Duchesne G, Jones T, et al. Cognitive existential couple therapy (CECT) in men and partners facing localised prostate cancer: a randomised controlled trial. BTU International 2015;115:35‐45. - PubMed
Heinrich 1985 {published data only}
    1. Heinrich RL, Schag CC. Stress and activity management: group treatment for cancer patients and spouses. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology 1985;53:439‐46. - PubMed
Kozachik 2001 {published data only}
    1. Kozachik SL, Given CW, Given BA, Pierce SJ, Azzouz F, Rawl SM, et al. Improving depressive symptoms among caregivers of patients with cancer: results of a randomized clinical trial. Oncology Nursing Forum 2001;28:1149‐57. - PubMed
Kuijer 2004 {published data only}
    1. Kuijer RG, Buunk BP, Jong M, Ybema JF, Sanderman R. Effects of a brief intervention program for patients with cancer and their partners on feelings of inequity, relationship quality and psychological distress. Psycho‐Oncology 2004;13:321‐34. - PubMed
Kurtz 2005 {published data only}
    1. Kurtz ME, Kurtz JC, Given CW, Given B. A randomized, controlled trial of a patient/caregiver symptom control intervention: effects on depressive symptomatology of caregivers of cancer patients. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 2005;30:112‐22. - PMC - PubMed
Ledderer 2013 {published data only}
    1. Ledderer L, Cour K, Mogenson O, Jakobson E, DePont CR, Kragstrup J, et al. Feasibility of a psychosocial intervention to enhance the involvement of relatives in cancer rehabilitation: pilot study for a randomised controlled trial. Patient 2013;6:201‐12. - PubMed
Manne 2004 {published data only}
    1. Manne S, Babb J, Pinover W, Horwitz E, Ebbert J. Psychoeducational group intervention for wives of men with prostate cancer. Psycho‐Oncology 2004;13:37‐46. - PubMed
Manne 2005 {published data only}
    1. Manne S, Ostroff JS, Winkel G, Fox K, Grana G, Miller E, et al. Couple‐focused group intervention for women with early stage breast cancer. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology 2005;73:634‐46. - PubMed
Manne 2011 {published data only}
    1. Manne SL, Kissane DW, Nelson CJ, Mulhall JP, Winkel G, Zaider T. Intimacy‐enhancing psychological intervention for men diagnosed with prostate cancer and their partners: a pilot study. Journal of Sexual Medicine 2011;8:1197‐209. - PMC - PubMed
McCorkle 2007 {published data only}
    1. McCorkle R, Dowd M, Pickett M, Siefert ML, Robinson J. Effects of advanced practice nursing on patient and spouse depressive symptoms, sexual function, and marital interaction after prostatectomy. Urologic Nursing 2007;27:65‐77. - PubMed
Nicolaisen 2018 {published data only}
    1. Hansen DG, Hagedoorn M, Johansen C, Flyger H. Hand in hand. Psychological support and counseling to breast cancer patients and their partners. https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/nct01368380 2011.
    1. Nicolaisen A, Hagedoorn M, Hansen DG, Flyger HL, Christensen R, Rottmann N, et al. The effect of an attachment‐oriented couple intervention for breast cancer patients and partners in the early treatment phase: A randomised controlled trial. Psycho‐Oncology 2018;27:922‐8. - PMC - PubMed
    1. Nicolaisen A, Hansen DG, Hagedoorn M, Flyger H, Rottmann N, Nielsen P, et al. Attachment‐oriented psychological intervention for couples facing breast cancer: protocol of a randomised controlled trial. BMC Psychology 2014;2:19. - PMC - PubMed
Northouse 2007 {published data only}
    1. Northouse LL, Wood DW, Schafenacker A, Montie JE, Sandler HM, Forman JD, et al. Randomized clinical trial of a family intervention for prostate cancer patients and their spouses. Cancer 2007;110:2809‐18. - PubMed
Robertson 2016 {published data only}
    1. Robertson J, McNamee P, Molloy G, Hubbard G, McNeill A, Bollina P, et al. Couple‐based psychosexual support following prostate cancer surgery: results of a feasibility pilot randomised control trial. Journal of Sexual Medicine 2016;13:1233‐42. - PubMed
Tsianakas 2015 {published data only}
    1. Tsianakas V, Robert G, Richardson A, Verity R, Oakley C, Murrells T, et al. Enhancing the experience of carers in the chemotherapy outpatient setting: an exploratory randomised controlled trial to test impact, acceptability and feasibility of a complex intervention co‐designed by carers and staff. Supportive Care Cancer 2015;23:3069‐80. - PubMed

References to studies excluded from this review

Addington‐Hall 1992 {published data only}
    1. Addington‐Hall JM, MacDonald LD, Anderson HR, Chamberlain J, Freeling P, Bland JM, et al. Randomized controlled trial of effects of coordinating care for terminally ill cancer patients. BMJ 1992;305:1317‐22. - PMC - PubMed
Applebaum 2015 {published data only}
    1. Applebaum JA, Kulikowski JR, Breitbart W. Meaning‐centered psychotherapy for cancer caregivers (MCP‐C): rationale and overview. Palliative and Supportive Care 2015;13(6):75. - PMC - PubMed
Applebaum 2016 {published data only}
    1. Applebaum A. The program for the study of cancer caregiving: A model of care for supporting the needs of caregivers. Psycho‐Oncology 2016;25:7‐8.
Badger 2007 {published data only}
    1. Badger T, Sergin C, Dorros S, Meek P, Lopez A. Depression and anxiety in women with breast cancer and their partners. Nursing Research 2007;56:44‐53. - PubMed
Badger 2011 {published data only}
    1. Badger TA, Sergin C, Figueredo AJ, Harrington J, Sheppard K, Passalacqua S, et al. Psychosocial interventions to improve quality of life in prostate cancer survivors and their intimate or family partners. Quality of Life Research 2011;20:833‐44. - PMC - PubMed
Badger 2013 {published data only}
    1. Badger T, Sergin C, Pasvogel A, Lopez A. The effect of psychosocial interventions delivered by telephone and videophone on quality of life in early‐stage breast cancer survivors and their supportive partners. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare 2013;19:260‐5. - PubMed
Badger 2017 {published data only}
    1. Badger T, Segrin C, Swiatkowski P, McNelis M, Weihs K, Lopez AM. Why Latinas with breast cancer select specific informal caregivers to participate with them in psychosocial interventions. Journal of Transcultural Nursing 2017;28(4):391‐7. - PubMed
Badr 2015 {published data only}
    1. Badr H, Smith CB, Goldsteing NE, Gomez JE, Redd WH. Dyadic psychosocial intervention for advanced lung cancer patients and their family caregivers: Results of a randomized pilot trial. Cancer 2015;121:150‐8. - PMC - PubMed
Beaussier 2015 {published data only}
    1. Beaussier H. Cancer and sexual health: early information and sexual satisfaction of couples in oncology. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/nct02541162 2015.
Beglund 2007 {published data only}
    1. Berglund G, Peterson L, Eriksson K, Wallenius I, Roshani A, Nordin K, et al. "Between Men": a psychosocial rehabilitation programme for men with prostate cancer. Acta Oncologica 2007;46:83‐9. - PubMed
Belgacem 2013 {published data only}
    1. Belgacem B, Auclair C, Fedor MC, Brugnon D, Blanquet M, Tournilhac O, et al. A caregiver educational program improves quality of life and burden for cancer patients and their caregivers: A randomised clinical trial. European Journal of Oncology Nursing 2013;17:870‐6. - PubMed
Berry 2017 {published data only}
    1. Berry LL, Dalwadi SM, Jacobson JO. Supporting the supporters: what family caregivers need to care for a loved one with cancer. Journal of Oncology Practice 2017;13:35‐41. - PubMed
Bevans 2010 {published data only}
    1. Bevans M, Castro K, Zabora J. An individualized dyadic problem‐solving education intervention for patients and family caregivers during allogeneic HSCT: A feasibility study. Cancer Nursing 2010;33:24‐32. - PMC - PubMed
Bevans 2014 {published data only}
    1. Bevans M, Wehrlen L, Castro K, Prince P, Shelburne N, Soeken K. A problem‐solving education intervention in caregivers and patients during allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Journal Health Psychology 2014;19:602‐17. - PMC - PubMed
Birnie 2010 {published data only}
    1. Birnie K, Garland S, Carlson L. Psychological benefits for cancer patients and their partners participating in mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR). Psycho‐Oncology 2010;19:1004‐9. - PubMed
Boele 2013 {published data only}
    1. Boele F, Hoeben W, Hilverda K, Lenting J, Calis AL, Sizoo E, et al. Enhancing quality of life mastery of informal caregivers of high grade glioma patients: a randomised controlled trial. Journal of Neuro‐Oncology 2013;111:303‐11. - PubMed
Bowen 2017 {published data only}
    1. Bowen DJ, Albrecht T, Hay J, Eggly S, Harris‐Wei J, Meischke H, et al. Communication among melanoma family members. Journal of Health Communication 2017;22:198‐204. - PMC - PubMed
Cain 1986 {published data only}
    1. Cain EN, Kohan EL, Quinlan DM, Latimer K, Schwartz PE. Psychosocial benefits of a cancer support group. Cancer 1986;57:183‐9. - PubMed
Canada 2005 {published data only}
    1. Canada A, Nesse L, Sui D, Schover L. Pilot intervention to enhance sexual rehabilitation for couples after treatment for localized prostate cancer. Cancer 2005;104(12):2689‐700. - PubMed
Carlsson 1998 {published data only}
    1. Carlsson ME, Strang PM. Educational support programme for gynaecological cancer patients and their families. Acta Oncologica 1998;37:269‐75. - PubMed
Carter 2006 {published data only}
    1. Carter PA. A brief behavioural sleep intervention for family caregivers of persons with cancer. Cancer Nursing 2006;29:95‐103. - PubMed
Cartledge 2005 {published data only}
    1. Carledge A, Haaga D. Effects of an education program on radiation oncology patients and families. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology 2005;23:61‐79. - PubMed
Chambers 2008 {published data only}
    1. Chambers SK, Schover L, Halford K, Clutton S, Ferguson M, Gordon L, et al. ProsCan for Couples: randomised controlled trial of a couples‐based sexuality intervention for men with localised prostate cancer who receive radical prostatectomy. BMC Cancer 2008;8:226. - PMC - PubMed
Chambers 2009 {published data only}
    1. Chambers SK, Girgis A, Occhipinti S, Hutchison S, Turner J, Carter R, et al. Beating the blues after cancer: randomised controlled trial of a tele‐based psychological intervention for high distress patients and carers. BMC Cancer 2009;9:189. - PMC - PubMed
Chambers 2012 {published data only}
    1. Chambers S, Schover L, Halford K, Nielsen L, Gordon L, Gardiner RA, et al. A randomised trial of couples‐focussed peer support for men with localised prostate cancer. Asia‐Pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology 2012;8:167‐8.
Chambers 2014 {published data only}
    1. Chambers SK, Girgis A, Occhipinti S, Hutchison S, Turner J, McDowell M, et al. A randomized trial comparing two low‐intensity psychological interventions for distressed patients with cancer and their caregivers. Oncology Nursing Forum 2014;41:E256‐66. - PubMed
Chambers 2014a {published data only}
    1. Chambers SK, Occhipinti S, Schover L, Nielsen L, Zajdlewicz L, Clutton S, et al. A randomised controlled trial of a couples‐based sexuality intervention for men with localised prostate cancer who receive radical prostatectomy and their female partners. Asia‐Pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology 2014;10:191‐2.
Chambers 2015 {published data only}
    1. Chambers S, Occhipinti S, Schover L, Nielsen L, Zajdlewicz, Clutton S. A randomised controlled trial of a couples‐based sexuality intervention for men with localised prostate cancer and their female partners. Psycho‐Oncology 2015;24:748‐56. - PubMed
Chen 2016 {published data only}
    1. Chen DF, Luo XH, Zhang YF, Li Y, Deng LC, Huang XR, et al. Effect of group education in family members of rectal cancer patients undergoing enterostomy. World Chinese Journal of Digestology 2016;24:147‐52.
Chiquelho 2011 {published data only}
    1. Chiquelho R, Neves S, Mendes A, Relvas A, Sousa L. ProFamilies: a psycho‐educational multi‐family group intervention for cancer patients and their families. European Journal of Cancer Care 2009;2011:337‐44. - PubMed
Christensen 1983 {published data only}
    1. Christensen DN. Postmastectomy couple counselling : an outcome study of a structured treatment protocol. Journal Sex Marital Therapy 1983;9:266‐75. - PubMed
Clark 2006 {published data only}
    1. Clark M, Rummans T, Sloan J, Jensen A, Atherton P, Frost M, et al. Quality of life of caregivers of patients with advanced‐stage cancer. American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine 2006;23:185‐91. - PubMed
Cochrane 2011 {published data only}
    1. Cochrane BB, Lewis FM, Griffith KA. Exploring a diffusion of benefit: does a woman with breast cancer derive benefit from an intervention delivered to her partner?. Oncology Nursing Forum 2011;38:207‐14. - PubMed
Cohen 2006 {published data only}
    1. Cohen M, Kuten A. Cognitive‐behaviour group intervention for relatives of cancer patients:a controlled study. Journal of Psychosomatic Research 2006;61:187‐96. - PubMed
Collinge 2013 {published data only}
    1. Collinge W, Khan J, Walton T, Kozak L, Bauer‐Wu S, Fletcher K, et al. Touch, caring, and cancer: randomized controlled trial of a multimedia caregiver education program. Supportive Care in Cancer 2013;21:1405‐14. - PMC - PubMed
Collins 2013 {published data only}
    1. Collins AL, Love AW, Bloch S, Street AF, Duchesne GM, Dunai J, et al. Cognitive existential couple therapy for newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients and their partners : a descriptive study. Psycho‐Oncology 2013;22:465‐9. - PubMed
Cunningham 1999 {published data only}
    1. Cunningham AJ, Edmonds CV, Williams D. Delivering a very brief psychoeducational program to cancer patients and family members in a large group format. Psycho‐Oncology 1999;8:177‐82. - PubMed
D'Souza 2015 {published data only}
    1. D'Souza V, Alcorso J, Blouin E, Zeitouni, A, Allison PJ. Information and its impact on co‐survivors of cancer patients. Psycho‐Oncology 2015;24:55.
Davison 2003 {published data only}
    1. Davison BJ, Goldenberg SL, Gleave ME, Degner LF. Provision of individualized information to men and their partners to facilitate treatment decision making in prostate cancer. Oncology Nursing Forum 2003;30(1):107‐14. - PubMed
Derdiarian 1989 {published data only}
    1. Derdiarian A. Effects of information on recently diagnosed cancer patients' and spouses satisfaction with care. Cancer Nursing 1989;12:285‐92. - PubMed
Dionne‐Odom 2016 {published data only}
    1. Dionne‐Odom JM, Azuero A, Lyons K, Hull J, Bakitas M. Family caregiver depression and grief outcomes from the ENABLE III randomized controlled trial. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 2016;51:362. - PMC - PubMed
Dockman 2016 {published data only}
    1. Dockman B, Schafenacker A, Yoon H, Ronis D, Kerhaw T, Titler M, et al. Implementation of a psychoeducational program for cancer survivors and family caregivers at a cancer support community affliate: a pilot effectiveness study. Cancer Nursing 2016;39:169‐80. - PubMed
Donnelly 2000 {published data only}
    1. Donnelly JM, Kornblith AB, Fleishman S, Zuckerman E, Raptis G, Hudis CA, et al. A pilot study interpersonal psychotherapy by telephone with cancer patients and their partners. Psycho‐Oncology 2000;9:44‐56. - PubMed
Du Benske 2014 {published data only}
    1. DuBenske LL, Gustafson DH, Namkoong K, Hawkins RP, Atwood AK, Brown RL, et al. CHESS improves cancer caregivers' burden and mood: results of an eHealth RCT. Health Psychology : official journal of the Division of Health Psychology, American Psychological Association 2014;33:1261‐72. - PMC - PubMed
Esbenshade 2013 {published data only}
    1. Esbenshade A. ALL‐Active: a family‐based lifestyle program for pediatric acute leukemia patients. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/nct01901367 2013.
Fergus 2013 {published data only}
    1. Fergus K. An internet‐based psychosexual intervention for couples following treatment for breast cancer. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/nct01881022 2013.
Follona 2013 {published data only}
    1. Follana P. Impact of a telephonic monitoring during inter‐treatment intervals on emotional state, quality of life and toxicities, on neo adjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy‐treated patients. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/nct01977053 2013.
Fu 2007 {published data only}
    1. Fu W, Hong LL, Liu CY, Mi LJ, Wang SS. Research on effects of psychological intervention on quality of life of cancer patients and their spouses. Chinese Journal of Cancer Prevention and Treatment 2007;14(23):1770‐4.
Gessler 2015 {published data only}
    1. Gessler SF. Developing a stepped approach to improving sexual function after treatment for gynaecological cancer. Https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/nct02458001 2015.
Giarelli 2003 {published data only}
    1. Giarelli E, McCorkle R, Monturo C. Caring for a spouse after prostate surgery: the preparedness needs of wives. Journal of Family Nursing 2003;9:453‐85.
Giesler 2005 {published data only}
    1. Giesler RB, Given B, Given CW, Rawl S, Monahan P, Burns D. Improving the quality of life of patients with prostate carcinoma: a randomised trial testing the efficacy of a nurse driven intervention. Cancer 2005;104:752‐62. - PubMed
Given 2004 {published data only}
    1. Given C, Given B, Rahbar M, Jeon S, Corkle R, Cimprich B, et al. Effect of a cognitive behavioural intervention on reducing symptom severity during chemotherapy. Journal of Clinical Oncology 2004;22:507‐15. - PubMed
Given 2006 {published data only}
    1. Given B Given C Sikorskii Jeon S Sherwood P Rahbar M. The impact of providing symptom management assistance on caregiver reaction: results of a randomized trial. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 2006;32:433‐443. - PubMed
Goldberg 1985 {published data only}
    1. Goldberg RJ, Wool MS. Psychotherapy for the spouses of lung cancer patients: assessment of an intervention. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics 1985;43(3):141‐50. - PubMed
Grahn 1996 {published data only}
    1. Grahn G, Danielson M. Coping with the cancer experience. II. Evaluating an education and support programme for cancer patients and their significant others. European Journal of Cancer Care 1996;5:182‐7. - PubMed
Halverson 2000 {published data only}
    1. Halverson P, Mays G, Rimer B, Lerman C, Audrain J, Kaluzny A. Adoption of a health education intervention for family members of breast cancer patients. American Journal of Preventive Medicine 2000;18(3):189‐98. - PubMed
Harden 2009 {published data only}
    1. Harden K, Falahee M, Bickes K, Schafenacker A, Walker J, Modd, D, et al. Factors associated with prostate cancer patients and their spouses satisfaction with a family based intervention. Cancer Nursing 2009;32:482‐92. - PMC - PubMed
Hawes 2006 {published data only}
    1. Hawes S, Malcarne V, Ko C, Sadler G, Banthuia R, Sherman S, et al. Identifying problems faced by spouses and partners of patients with prostate cancer. Oncology Nursing Forum 2006;33:807‐14. - PubMed
Heinrichs 2012 {published data only}
    1. Heinrichs N, Zimmermann T, Huber B, Herschbach P, Russell DW, Baucom DH. Cancer distress reduction with a couple‐based skills training: a randomized controlled trial. Annals of Behavioral Medicine 2012;43:239‐52. - PubMed
Hendrix 2013 {published data only}
    1. Hendrix C, Landerman R, Abernethy AP. Effects of an individualized caregiver training intervention on self efficacy of cancer caregivers. Western Journal of Nursing Research 2013;35:590‐610. - PubMed
Hendrix 2016 {published data only}
    1. Hendrix C, Bailey DE, Steinhauser K, Olsen MK, Stechuchak KM, Lowman SG, et al. Effects of enhanced caregiver training program on cancer caregivers self‐efficacy, preparedness, and psychological well‐being. Supportive Care In Cancer 2016;24:327‐36. - PMC - PubMed
Hoff 2005 {published data only}
    1. Hoff A, Haaga D. Effects of an education program on radiation oncology patients and families. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology 2005;23:61‐77. - PubMed
Holm 2015 {published data only}
    1. Holm M, Arestedt K, Carlander I, Furst CJ, Wengstrom Y, Ohlen J, et al. Short‐term and long term effects of a psycho‐educational group intervention for family caregivers in palliative home care‐ results from a randomized controlled trial. Psycho‐Oncology 2015;25:795‐802. - PubMed
Holmes 1987 {published data only}
    1. Holmes BC. Psychological evaluation and preparation of the patient and family. Cancer 1987;60:2021‐4. - PubMed
Horowitz 2008 {published data only}
    1. Horowitz S, Passik S, Malking M. In sickness and In health. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology 1996;14:43‐56.
Hudson 2005 {published data only}
    1. Hudson PL, Aranda S, Hayman‐White K. A psycho‐educational intervention for family caregivers of patients receiving palliative care: a randomised controlled trial. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 2005;30:329‐41. - PubMed
Hudson 2015 {published data only}
    1. Hudson P, Trauer T, O Connor M, Thomas K, Zordan R, Summers M. Reducing the psychological distress of family caregivers of home based palliative care patients: Longer term effects from a randomised controlled trial. Psycho‐Oncology 2015;24:19‐24. - PMC - PubMed
Hutchison 2011 {published data only}
    1. Hutchison S, Sargeant H, Morris B, Hawkes AL, Clutton S, Chambers S. A community‐based approach to cancer counselling for patients and carers: a preliminary study. Psycho‐Oncology 2011;20:897‐901. - PubMed
Jepson 1999 {published data only}
    1. Jepson C, McCorkle R, Adler D, Nuamah I, Lusk E. Effects of home care on caregivers' psychosocial status. Journal of Nursing Scholarship 1999;31:115‐20. - PubMed
Kalaitzi 2007 {published data only}
    1. Kalaitzi C, Papadopoulos VP, Michas K, Vlasis K, Skandalakis P, Fillippou D. Combined brief psychosexual intervention after mastectomy: Effects on sexuality, body image and psychological wellbeing. Journal of Surgical Oncology 2007;96:235‐40. - PubMed
Kayser 2010 {published data only}
    1. Kayser K, Feldman B, Borstelmann N, Daniels A. Effects of a randomized couple‐based intervention on quality of life of breast cancer patients and their partners. Social Work Research 2010;34:20‐32.
Keefe 2005 {published data only}
    1. Keefe FJ, Ahles TA, Sutton L, Dalton JA, Baucom D, Pope MS. Partner‐guided cancer pain management at the end of life: A preliminary study. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 2005;29:263‐72. - PubMed
La Cour 2015 {published data only}
    1. Cour K, Ledderer L, Handen HP. 'An arena for sharing'. Exploring the joint involvement of patients and their relatives in a cancer rehabilitation study. Cancer Nursing 2015;38:1‐9. - PubMed
La Cour 2016 {published data only}
    1. Cour K, Ledderer L, Hansen HP. Storytelling as part of cancer rehabilitation to support cancer patients and their relatives. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology 2016;34:460‐76. - PubMed
Lambert 2016 {published data only}
    1. Lambert SD, McElduff P, Girgis A, Levesque JV, Regan T, Turner J, et al. A pilot , multisite, randomized controlled trail of a self‐directed coping skills training intervention for couples facing prostate cancer: accrual, retention, and data collection issues. Supportive Care In Cancer 2016;24:711‐22. - PubMed
Langer 2012 {published data only}
    1. Langer SL, Kelly TH, Storer BE, Hall SP, Lucas HG, Syrjala KL. Expressive talking among caregivers of hematopoietic stem cell transplant survivors: Acceptability and concurrent subjective, objective, and physiologic indicators of emotion. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology 2012;30:294‐315. - PMC - PubMed
Laudenslager 2015 {published data only}
    1. Laudenslager M, Simoneau TL, Kilbourn K, Natvig C, Philips S, Spradley J, et al. A randomised control trial of a psychosocial intervention for caregivers of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients: effects on distress. Bone Marrow Transplantation 2015;50:1110‐8. - PMC - PubMed
Lawsin 2011 {published data only}
    1. Lawsin C, Sukhnandan H. Preparing patients and their partners for HSCT: lessons learned from a couple‐focused, telephone‐delivered coping skills training intervention delivered pre‐transplant. Psycho‐Oncology 2011;20:23‐4.
Ledderer 2011 {published data only}
    1. Ledderer L, Hansen HP. The involvement of relatives in psychosocial cancer rehabilitation in a hospital setting. Psycho‐Oncology 2011;20:50‐1.
Lepore 2003 {published data only}
    1. Lepore S, Helgeson V, Eton D, Schulz R. Improving quality of life In men with prostate cancer. A randomised controlled trial of group education interventions. Health Psychology 2003;22:443‐52. - PMC - PubMed
Lewis 2008 {published data only}
    1. Lewis FM, Cochrane B, Fletcher K, Zahlis E, Shands ME, Gralow J, et al. Helping Her Heal: a pilot study of an educational counselling intervention for spouses of women with breast cancer. Psycho‐Oncology 2008;17:131‐7. - PubMed
Lobchuk 2006 {published data only}
    1. Lobchuk MM, Degner, LF, Chateau D, Hewitt D. Promoting enhanced patient and family caregiver congruence on lung cancer symptom experiences. Oncology Nursing Forum 2006;33:273‐82. - PubMed
Locke 2008 {published data only}
    1. Locke DW, Cerhan JH, Wu W, Malec JF, Clark MM, Rummans TA, et al. Cognitive rehabilitation and problem‐solving to improve quality of life of patients with primary brain tumors: a pilot study. Journal of Supportive Oncology 2008;6:383‐91. - PubMed
Lyons 2016 {published data only}
    1. Lyons KS, Winters‐Stone K, Bennett JA, Beer TM. The effects of partnered exercise on physical intimacy in couples coping with prostate cancer. Health Psychology 2016;35:509‐13. - PMC - PubMed
Mahendran 2017 {published data only}
    1. Mahendran R, Lim HA, Joyce YS, Ng HY, Chua J, Lim SE, et al. Evaluation of a brief pilot psychoeducational support group intervention for family caregivers of cancer patients: a quasi‐experimental mixed‐methods study. Health and Quality of Life Outcomes 2017;15:17. - PMC - PubMed
Malcarne 2002 {published data only}
    1. Malcarne VL, Banthia R, Varni JW, Sadler GR, Greenbergs HL, Ko CM. Problem‐solving skills and emotional distress in spouses of men with prostate cancer. Journal of Cancer Education 2002;17:150‐4. - PubMed
Manne 2010 {published data only}
    1. Kissane D, Nelson C. Communication and intimacy‐enhancing therapy for men with early stage prostate cancer and their partners. Https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/nct00503646 2007.
    1. Manne S, Badr H, Zaider T, Nelson C, Kissane D. Cancer‐related communication, relationship intimacy, and psychological distress among couples coping with localized prostate cancer. Journal of Cancer Survivorship 2010;4(1):74‐85. - PMC - PubMed
Mazanec 2017 {published data only}
    1. Mazanec SR, Miano S, Baer L, Campagnaro EL, Sattar A, Daly BJ. A family‐centered intervention for the transition to living with multiple myeloma as a chronic illness: a pilot study. Applied Nursing Research 2017;35:86‐9. - PubMed
McMillan 2006 {published data only}
    1. McMillan SC, Small BJ, Weitzner M, Schonwetter R, Tittle M, Moody L. Impact of coping skills intervention with family caregivers of hospice patients with cancer. Cancer 2006;106(1):214‐22. - PubMed
Mishel 2002 {published data only}
    1. Mishel M, Belyea M, Germinio B, Stewart J, Balley D, Robetertson C, et al. Helping patients with localised prostate carcinoma manage uncertainty and treatment side effects. Cancer 2002;94:1854‐66. - PubMed
Mishel 2009 {published data only}
    1. Mishel MH, Germino BB, Lin L, Pruthi RS, Wallen EM, Crandell K, et al. Managing uncertainty about treatment decisions making in early stage prostate cancer a randomised controlled trial. Patient Education and Counselling 2009;77:349‐59. - PubMed
Mokuau 2008 {published data only}
    1. Mokuau N, Braun K, Wong LK, Higuchi P, Gotay C. Development of a family intervention for native hawaiian women with cancer: a pilot study. Social Work 2008;53:9‐19. - PubMed
Mokuau 2012 {published data only}
    1. Mokuau N, Braun K, Daniggelis E. Building family capacity for native hawaiian women with breast cancer. Health Social Work 2012;7:216‐24. - PMC - PubMed
Mosher 2016 {published data only}
    1. Mosher CE, Winger JG, Hanna N, Jalal SI, Lawrence H, Birdas TJ, et al. Randomized pilot trial of a telephone symptom management intervention for symptomatic lung cancer patients and their family caregivers. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 2016;52:469‐82. - PMC - PubMed
Namkoong 2012 {published data only}
    1. Namkoong K, DuBenske L, Shaw B, Gustafson DH, Hawkins R, Shaha D, et al. Creating a bond between caregivers online: effect on caregivers’ coping strategies. Journal of Health Communication: International Perspectives 2012;17:125‐40. - PMC - PubMed
Nejad 2016 {published data only}
    1. Nejad ZK, Aghdam MA, Hassankhani H, Sanaat Z. The effects of a patient‐caregiver education and follow‐up programme on the breast cancer strain index. Iran Red Crescent Medical Journal 2016;18:e21627. - PMC - PubMed
Nezu 2003 {published data only}
    1. Nezu A, Nezu C, Maguth F, Clure S, Houts P. Project Genesis: assessing the efficacy of problem‐solving therapy for distressed adult cancer patients. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology 2003;71:1036‐48. - PubMed
Northouse 2005 {published data only}
    1. Northhouse L, Kershaw T, Mood D, Schafenacher A. Effects of a family intervention on the quality of life of women with recurrent breast cancer and their family caregivers. Psycho‐Oncology 2005;14:478‐91. - PubMed
Northouse 2013 {published data only}
    1. Northouse LL, Mood DW, Schafenacker A, Kalemkerian G, Zalupski M, LoRusso P, Hayes DF, Hussain M, Ruckdeschel J, Fendrick AM, Trask PC, Ronis DL, Kershaw T. Randomized clinical trial of a brief and extensive dyadic intervention for advanced cancer patients and their family caregivers. Psycho‐oncology 2013;22:555‐63. - PMC - PubMed
Northouse 2014 {published data only}
    1. Northouse L, Schafenacker A, Barr K, Katapodi M, Yoon H, Brittain K, et al. A tailored web‐based psycho‐educational intervention for cancer patients and their family caregivers. Cancer Nursing 2014;37:321‐30. - PMC - PubMed
Parker 2016 {published data only}
    1. Parker V, Bennett L, Bellamy D, Britton B, Lambert S. Study protocol: Evaluation of a DVD intervention designed to meet the information needs of patients with head and neck cancer and their partner, carer and families. BMC Health Services Research 2016;16:670. - PMC - PubMed
Parker 2017 {published data only}
    1. Parker OD, Patil S, Benson JJ, Gage A, Washington K, Kruse RL, et al. The effect of internet group support for caregivers on social support, self‐efficacy, and caregiver burden: a meta‐analysis. Telemedicine and E‐health 2017;23:621‐9. - PubMed
Pasacreta 2000 {published data only}
    1. Pasacreta J, Barg F, Nuamah I, McCorkle R. Participant characteristics before and 4 months after attendance at a family caregiver cancer education program. Cancer Nursing 2000;23:295‐303. - PubMed
Paterson 2017 {published data only (unpublished sought but not used)}
    1. Paterson C, Primeau C, Nabi G. A randomised controlled feasibility study: a multimodal supportive care intervention in men and their partners/carers affected by metastatic prostate cancer. Journal of Urology 2017;197:E195.
Porter 2009 {published data only}
    1. Porter LS, Keefe FJ, Baucom DH, Hurwitz H, Moser B, Patterson E, et al. Partner‐assisted emotional disclosure for patients with gastrointestinal cancer. Cancer 2009;115:4326‐38. - PMC - PubMed
Porter 2011 {published data only}
    1. Porter L, Keefe F, Garst J, Baucom D, McBride C, McKee D, et al. Caregiver‐assisted coping skills training for lung cancer: results of a randomised clinical trial. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 2011;41:1‐13. - PMC - PubMed
Porter 2012 {published data only}
    1. Porter LS, Keefe FJ, Baucom DH, Hurwitz H, Moser B, Patterson E, et al. Partner‐assisted emotional disclosure for patients with GI cancer: 8‐week follow‐up and processes associated with change. Supportive Care in Cancer 2012;20:1755‐62. - PubMed
Rawl 2002 {published data only}
    1. Rawl SM, Given BA, Given CW. Intervention to improve psychological functioning for newly diagnosed patients with cancer. Oncology Nursing Forum 2002;6:967‐75. - PubMed
Reele 1994 {published data only}
    1. Reele BL. Effect of counselling on quality of life for individuals with cancer and their families. Cancer Nursing 1994;17:101‐12. - PubMed
Richardson 2007 {published data only}
    1. Richardson A, Plant H, Moore S, Medina J, Cornwall A, Ream E. Developing supportive care for family members of people with lung cancer: a feasibility study. Supportive Care In Cancer 2007;15:1259‐69. - PubMed
Roberts 2002 {published data only}
    1. Roberts S, Black C, Todd K. The Living With Cancer Education Programme. Evaluation of an Australian education and support programme for cancer patients and their family and friends. Cancer Care 2002;11:280‐9. - PubMed
Robinson 1998 {published data only}
    1. Robinson KD, Angeletti KA, Barg FK, Pasacreta JV, McCorkle R, Yasko JM. The development of Family Caregiver Cancer Education Programme. Journal of Cancer Education 1998;13:116‐21. - PubMed
Rowland 2009 {published data only}
    1. Rowland J, Meyeroxitz B, Crespi C, Leedham B, Desmond K, Belin T, et al. Addressing intimacy and partner communication after breast cancer: a randomized controlled group intervention. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment 2009;118:99‐111. - PMC - PubMed
Schover 2011 {published data only}
    1. Schover LR, Rhodes MM, Baum G, Adams JH, Jenkins R, Lewis P, et al. Sisters Peer Counseling in Reproductive Issues After Treatment (SPIRIT): a peer counseling program to improve reproductive health among African American breast cancer survivors. Cancer 2011;117:4983‐92. - PMC - PubMed
Schover 2012 {published data only}
    1. Schover LR, Canada AL, Yuan Y, Sui D, Neese L, Jenkins R. A randomized trial of internet‐based versus traditional sexual counselling for couples after localised prostate cancer treatment. Cancer 2012;118:500‐9. - PMC - PubMed
Schover 2013 {published data only}
    1. Schover LR, Yuan Y, Fellman BM, Odensky E, Lewis PE, Martinetti P. Efficacy trial of an Internet‐based intervention for cancer‐related female sexual dysfunction. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 2013;11:1389‐97. - PMC - PubMed
Schover 2015 {published data only}
    1. Schover L, Odensky E, Martinetti P. Developing an internet‐based intervention for cancer‐related male sexual problems. Psycho‐Oncology 2015;24:2‐3.
Schumacher 2014 {published data only}
    1. Schumacher KL, Plano Clark VL, West CM, Dodd MJ, Rabow MW, Miaskowski C. Pain medication management processes used by oncology outpatients and family caregivers part I: health systems contexts. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 2014;48:770‐83. - PMC - PubMed
Schwartz 1998 {published data only}
    1. Schwartz M, Lerman C, Audrain J, Cella D, Rimer B, Stefanek M, et al. The impact of a brief problem‐solving training intervention for relatives of recently diagnosed breast cancer patients. Annals of Behavoral Medicine 1998;20:7‐12. - PubMed
Scott 2004 {published data only}
    1. Scott JL, Halford WK, Ward BG. United we stand? The effects of a couple intervention on adjustment to early stage breast or gynaecological cancer. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology 2004;72:1122‐35. - PubMed
Scott 2013b {published data only}
    1. Scott K, Beatty L. Feasibility study of a self guided cognitive behaviour therapy Internet intervention for cancer carers. Australian Journal of Primary Health 2013;19:270‐4. - PubMed
Seftel 2015 {published data only}
    1. Seftel AD. Re: a randomised controlled trial of a couples‐based sexuality intervention for men with localised prostate cancer and their female partners. Journal of Urology 2015;194:167‐8. - PubMed
Shaw 2016 {published data only}
    1. Shaw JM, Young JM, Butow PN, Badgery‐Parker T, Durcinoska I, Harrison JD, et al. Improving psychosocial outcomes for caregivers of people with poor prognosis gastrointestinal cancers: a randomized controlled trial (Family Connect).. Supportive Care in Cancer 2016;24:585‐95. - PubMed
Sherwood 2012 {published data only}
    1. Sherwood PR, Given BA, Given CW, Sikorskii A, You M, Prince J. The impact of a problem‐solving intervention on increasing caregiver assistance and improving caregiver health. Supportive Cancer Care 2012;20:1295‐5. - PubMed
Sherwood 2014 {published data only}
    1. Sherwood PR, Donovan HS. SmartCare: innovations in caregiving interventions. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/nct02058745 2014.
Shields 2004 {published data only}
    1. Shields CG, Rousseau SG. A pilot study of an intervention for breast cancer survivors and their spouses. Family Processes 2004;43:95‐107. - PubMed
Silveira 2015 {published data only}
    1. Silveira M, Given CW, Sikorskii A, Given BA, Cease KG, Piette JD. A web‐based program to engage informal caregivers to support patients through chemotherapy. Journal of Clinical Oncology 2015;33:90.
Stephenson 2007 {published data only}
    1. Stephenson N, Swanson M, Dalton J, Keefe F, Engleke M. Partner delivered reflexology: effects on cancer pain and anxiety. Oncology Nursing Forum 2007;1:127‐32. - PubMed
Sun 2017 {published data only}
    1. Sun V, Raz DJ, Ruel N, Chang W, Erhunmwunsee L, Reckamp K, et al. A multimedia self‐management intervention to prepare cancer patients and family caregivers for lung surgery and postoperative recovery. Clinical Lung Cancer 2017;18:e151‐9. - PMC - PubMed
Thornton 2004 {published data only}
    1. Thornton A, Perez M, Meyerowitz B. Patient and partner quality of life and psychosocial adjustment following radical prostatectomy. Journal of Clinical Psychology In Medical Settings 2004;11:15‐30.
Todd 2002 {published data only}
    1. Todd K, Roberts S, Black C. The Living with Cancer Education Programme. I. Development of an Australian education and support programme for cancer patients and their family and friends. European Journal of Cancer Care 2002;11:271‐9. - PubMed
Toussaint 2014 {published data only}
    1. Toussaint L, Barry M, Bornfriend L, Markman M. Restore: the journey toward self‐forgiveness: a randomized trial of patient education on self‐forgiveness in cancer patients and caregivers. Journal of Health Care Chaplaincy 2014;20:54‐74. - PubMed
Walsh 2007 {published data only}
    1. Walsh K, Jones L, Tookman A. Reducing emotional distress in people caring for patients receiving specialist palliative care. British Journal of Psychiatry 2007;190:142‐7. - PubMed
Ward 2009 {published data only}
    1. Ward SE, Serlin RC, Donovan HS, Ameringer SW, Hughes S, Pe‐Romashko K, et al. A randomized trial of a representational intervention for cancer pain: Does targeting the dyad make a difference?. Health Psychology 2009;28:588‐97. - PMC - PubMed
Watson 2017 {published data only}
    1. Watson M, White C, Lynch A, Mohammed, K. Telephone‐delivered individual cognitive behavioural therapy for cancer patients: an equivalence randomised trial. Psycho‐Oncology 2017;26:301‐8. - PubMed
Weber 2007a {published data only}
    1. Weber B, Roberts B. Yarandi H, Mills T, Clumber N, Algood C. Dyadic support and quality of life after radical prostatectomy. Journal of Men's Health and Gender 2007;4:156‐64. - PMC - PubMed
Weber 2007b {published data only}
    1. Weber B, Roberts BL, Yarandi H, Mills TL, Chumbler NR, Wajsman Z. The impact of dyadic social support on self efficacy and depression after radical prostatectomy. Journal of Ageing and Health 2007;19:630‐45. - PubMed
Weingart 2009 {published data only}
    1. Weingart SN, Simchowitz B, Eng TK, Morway L, Spencer J, Zhu J, et al. The You CAN campaign: teamwork training for patients and families in ambulatory oncology. Joint Commission Journal on Quality and Patient Safety 2009;35:63‐71. - PubMed
Wooten 2015 {published data only}
    1. Wootten A, Abbott J, Austin D, Klein B, Murphy D, Costello A. Feasibility and pilot testing of an online psychological support intervention for partners of men with prostate cancer. Psycho‐Oncology 2015;24:37‐8.
Xiao 2009 {published data only}
    1. Xiao, N. Xiao SY, Peng L. A study of cognitive psychological intervention of family caregivers of patients with intracranial tumour and its effect on anxiety and depression in the patients. Chinese Journal of Clinical Psychology 2009;17:250‐2.
Zimmermann 2011 {published data only}
    1. Zimmermann T, Heinrichs N. Effects of a psychosocial intervention for couples on sexuality when the woman has breast cancer. Zeitschrift fur Gesundheitspsycholgie 2011;19:23‐34.

References to studies awaiting assessment

Gremore 2014 {published data only}
    1. Gremore T, Horgan S. A couple‐based intervention for patients with head and neck cancer and their partners. Psycho‐Oncology 2014;23:42. - PubMed
Schover 2012a {published data only}
    1. Schover L. Hard times: designing an internet‐based intervention for cancer‐related sexual problems in men. Asia‐Pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology 2012;8:184.

References to ongoing studies

Aubin 2017 {published data only}
    1. Aubin M, Vezina L, Verrault R, Simard, S, Desbiens J‐F, Tremblay L, Dumont S, et al. Effectiveness of an intervention to improve supportive care for family caregivers of patients with lung cancer: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2017;18:304. - PMC - PubMed
El‐Jawahri 2017 {published data only}
    1. El‐Jawahri A. Psychological intervention for caregivers of patients undergoing stem cell transplant. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03328663.
Ferrell 2013 {published data only}
    1. Ferrell B. Family caregiver palliative care intervention in supporting caregivers of patients with stage II‐IV gastrointestinal, gynecologic, urologic and lung cancers. https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/nct01846520 2013.
Hendrix 2017 {published data only}
    1. Williams LifeSkills‐ cancer caregiver intervention. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03174626.
Juarez 2015 {published data only}
    1. Bilingual breast cancer educational intervention for Hispanic women with stage I, stage II, or stage III breast cancer and their families or caregivers. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01043003.
Manne 2013 {published data only}
    1. Manne S. Intimacy‐enhancing couples' intervention for localized prostate cancer. https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/nct01982058 2013.
McCaughan 2013 {published data only}
    1. McCaughan E, Prue G, McSorley O, Northouse L, Schafenacker A, Parahoo K. A randomized controlled trial of a self‐management psychosocial intervention for men with prostate cancer and their partners: a study protocol. Journal of Advanced Nursing 2013;69:2572‐83. - PubMed
    1. McCaughan E, Prue G, McSorley O, Parahoo K. Development of a self‐management psychosocial intervention for men with prostate cancer and their partners: lessons learnt from the "real world". Psycho‐Oncology 2013;22:335‐6.
Nie 2017 {published data only}
    1. Nie, Z. Help Her Heal: a randomized controlled trial of an educational counselling intervention program for spouses of women with breast cancer. WHOtrials.gov: ChiCTR‐INR‐17012517.
O'Toole 2017 {published data only}
    1. Cancer caregiver burden: targeting emotional regulation in a trial (ERT‐ICs). Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02322905.
Rush 2015 {published data only}
    1. Rush CL, Darling M, Eilliott MG, Febus‐Sampayo I, Kuo C, Muñoz J, et al. Engaging Latina cancer survivors, their caregivers, and community partners in a randomized controlled trial: Nueva Vida intervention. Quality of Life Research 2015;24:1107‐18. - PMC - PubMed
Sadler 2016 {published data only}
    1. Problem solving therapy for prostate cancer spousal caregivers. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02085096.
Shum 2015 {published data only}
    1. Effectiveness of telephone intervention for colorectal cancer caregivers. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01519895.
Trevino 2017 {published data only}
    1. Managing Anxiety From Cancer (MAC): Testing an intervention for anxiety in older adults with cancer and their caregivers. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03168971.

Additional references

Applebaum 2013
    1. Applebaum A, Breitbart W. Care for the cancer caregiver: A systematic review. Palliative and Supportive Care 2013;11:231‐52. - PMC - PubMed
Bandura 1977
    1. Bandura A. Self‐efficacy: toward a unifying theory of behavioural change. Psychological Review 1977;84:191‐215. - PubMed
Bandura 1997
    1. Bandura A. Self‐efficacy: the Exercise of Control. New York: WH Freeman, 1997.
Bowlby 1982
    1. Bowlby J. Attachment theory and its therapeutic applications. Adolescent Psychiatry 1982;6:5‐33. - PubMed
Campbell 2004
    1. Campbell L, Keefe F, McKee D, Edwards CL, Herman SH, Johnson LE, et al. Prostate cancer in African Americans: relationship of patient and partner self efficacy to quality of life. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 2004;28:433‐44. - PubMed
Campbell 2009
    1. Campbell S, Sanson‐Fisher R, Taylor‐Brown J, Hayward L, Wang S, Turner D. The cancer support person unmet needs survey. Cancer 2009;115:3351‐9. - PubMed
Candy 2011
    1. Candy B, Jones L, Drake R, Leurent B, King M. Interventions for supporting informal caregivers of patients in the terminal phase of a disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 6. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007617.pub2] - DOI - PubMed
Carver 1993
    1. Carver CS, Pozo C, Harris SD, Noriega V, Scheier MF, Robinson DS, et al. How coping mediates the effect of optimism on distress: A study of women with early stage breast cancer. Personality and Social Psychology 1993;65:375‐90. - PubMed
Cella 1990
    1. Cella D, Mahon S, Donavan M. Cancer recurrence as a traumatic event. Behavioural Medicine 1990;16:15‐22. - PubMed
Couper 2006
    1. Couper JW, Bloch S, Love A, Duchesne G, Macvean M, Kissane DW. The psychosocial impact of prostate cancer on patients and their partners. Medical Journal of Australia 2006;185:428‐32. - PubMed
Cunningham 1996
    1. Cunningham A, Edmonds C. Group psychological therapy for cancer patients: a point of view, and discussion of the hierarchy options. International Journal of Psychiatry In Medicine 1996;26:51‐82. - PubMed
Daly 2009
    1. Daly B, Douglas S, Lipson A, Foley H. Needs of older caregivers of patients with advanced cancer. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2009;57:293‐5. - PMC - PubMed
Department of Health 2007
    1. Department of Health. Cancer Reform Strategy. Department of Health England 2007.
Department of Health and Ageing 2008
    1. Australian Government. The National Palliative Care Program. Department of Health and Ageing 2008.
Donnelly 2008
    1. Donnelly M, Anderson L, Murray L. Oesophageal cancer: caregiver mental health and strain. Psycho‐Oncology 2008;17:1196‐201. - PubMed
Ferlay 2008
    1. Ferlay J. Shin HR, Bray F, Forman D, Mathers C, Parkin DM. GLOBCAN 2008, Cancer Incidence and Mortaility Worldwide. IARC. http://globocan.iarc.fr/ 2008.
Ferrell 1995
    1. Ferrell B, Hassey Dow K, Grant M. Measurement of the quality of life in cancer survivors. Quality of Life Research 1995;4:523‐31. - PubMed
Galway 2012
    1. Galway K, Black A, Cantwell MC, Cardwell C, Mills M, Donnelly M. Psychosocial interventions to improve quality of life and emotional wellbeing for recently diagnosed cancer patients. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2012, Issue 14. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007064.pub2] - DOI - PMC - PubMed
Gritz 2004
    1. Gritz E, Wellisch D, Sherwood P, Gift A, Devoss D. Burden and depression among caregivers of patients with cancer at the end of life. Oncology Nursing Forum 2004;31:1105‐17. - PMC - PubMed
Hagedoorn 2000
    1. Hagedoorn M, Buunk B, Kuijer R, Wobbes T, Sanderman R. Couples dealing with cancer: role and gender differences regarding psychological distress and quality of life. Psycho‐Oncology 2000;9:232‐42. - PubMed
Harding 2003
    1. Harding R, Higginson J. What is the best way to help caregivers in cancer and palliative care? A systematic literature review of interventions and their effectiveness. Palliative Medicine 2003;17:63‐74. - PubMed
Higgins 2011
    1. Higgins J, Green S, editor(s). Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. The Cochrane Collaboration 2011; Vol. Version 5.1.0 (Updated March 2011).:Available from handbook.cochrane.org.
Hilton 1994
    1. Hilton BA. Family communication patterns in coping with early breast cancer. Nursing Research 1994;16:366‐91. - PubMed
Hodges 2005
    1. Hodges LJ, Humphris GM, Macfarlane G. A meta‐analytic investigation of the relationship between the psychological distress of cancer patients and their carers. Social Science Medicine 2005;60:1‐12. - PubMed
Hodges 2010
    1. Hodges L, Walker J, Kleiboer A, Ramirez A, Richardson A, Velikova G, et al. What is a psychological intervention? A meta‐review and practical proposal. Psycho‐Oncology 2010;20:470‐8. - PubMed
Hodgkinson 2007
    1. Hodgkinson K, Butow P, Hobbs K, Hunt G, Lo S, Wain G. Assessing unmet supportive care needs in partners of cancer survivors:the development and evaluation of the Cancer Survivors Partners Unmet Need Measure (CaPSUN). Psycho‐Oncology 2007;16(9):805‐13. - PubMed
Horner 2006
    1. Horner M, Ries L, Krapcho M, Neyman N, Aminou R, Howlader N, et al. SEER Cancer Statistics Review, 1975‐2006. National Cancer Institute. Bethesda, MD 2006.
Hozo 2005
    1. Hozo P, Djulbegovic B, Hozo I. Estimating the mean and variance from the median, range, and size of a sample. BMC Medical Research Methodology 2005;5:13. - PMC - PubMed
Hudson 2010
    1. Hudson P, Remidos C, Thomas K. A systematic review of psychosocial interventions for family carers of palliative care patients. BMC Palliative Care 2010;9:17. - PMC - PubMed
Kim 2008
    1. Kim Y, Kashy D, Wellisch D, Spillers R, Kwei K, Smith T. Quality of life of couples dealing with cancer: dyadic and individuals adjustment among breast and prostate cancer survivors and their spousal caregivers. Annals of Behavioral Medicine 2008;35:230‐8. - PubMed
Kim 2010
    1. Kim Y, Kashy D, Spillers R, Evans T. Needs assessment of family caregivers of cancer Survivors: three cohort comparison. Psycho‐Oncology 2010;19:473‐82. - PubMed
Kim 2012
    1. Kim Y, Spillers R, Hall D. Quality of Life of family caregivers 5 years after a relatives cancer diagnosis : follow‐up on the national quality of life survey for caregivers.. Psycho‐Oncology 2012;21:273‐81. - PubMed
Lambert 2012
    1. Lambert SD, Jones BL, Girgis A, Lecathelinais C, DESS de Mathématiques Appliquées. Distressed partners and caregivers do not recover easily: adjustment trajectories among partners and caregivers of cancer survivors. Annals of Behavioural Medicine 2012;44:225‐35. - PubMed
Langer 2003
    1. Langer S, Abrams J, Syrjala K. Caregiver and patient marital satisfaction and affect following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation:a prospective longitudinal investigation. Psycho‐Oncology 2003;12:239‐53. - PubMed
Lazarus 1984
    1. Lazarus R, Folkman S. Stress, appraisal, and coping. New York: Springer, 1984.
Legg 2011
    1. Legg LA, Quinn TJ, Mahmood F, Weir CJ, Tierney J, Stott DJ, et al. Non‐pharmacological interventions for caregivers of stroke survivors. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 10. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD008179.pub2] - DOI - PubMed
Li 2014
    1. Li Q, Loke AY. A systematic review of spousal couple‐based intervention studies for couples coping with cancer: direction for the development of interventions. Psycho‐Oncology 2014;23:731‐9. - PubMed
Liberati 2009
    1. Liberati A, Altman DG, Tetzlaff J, Mulrow C, Gøtzche PC, Ioannidis JP, et al. The PRISMA statement for reporting systematic reviews and meta‐analyses of studies that evaluate health care interventions: explanation and elaboraiton. PLOS Medicine 2009;6:e1000100. - PMC - PubMed
Lipscomb 2005
    1. Lipscomb J, Gotay C, Snyder C. Outcomes Assessment in Cancer: Meaures, Methods and Applications. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2005.
Lukens 2004
    1. Lukens EP, McFarlane WR. Psychoeducation as evidence‐based practice: considerations for practice, research, and policy. Brief Treatment and Crisis Intervention 2004;4:205‐25.
Macmillan 2008
    1. Macmillan Cancer Support. Two million reasons: The cancer survivorship agenda (2008). http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Documents/GetInvolved/Campaigns/Campaigns/Tw... (accessed 24 Jan 2012).
Maddams 2009
    1. Maddams J, Moller H, Brewster D, Gavin A, Steward J, Elliot J, et al. Cancer prevalence in the United Kingdom: estimates for 2008. British Journal of Cancer 2009;101:541‐7. - PMC - PubMed
Maddams 2012
    1. Maddams J, Utley M, Moller H. Projections of cancer prevalence in the United Kingdom, 2010‐2040. British Journal of Cancer 2012;107:1195‐202. - PMC - PubMed
Matthews 2003
    1. Matthews B. Role and gender differences in cancer‐related distress:a comparison of survivor and caregiver self‐reports. Oncology Nursing Forum 2003;30:493‐9. - PubMed
Mellon 2006
    1. Mellon S, Northouse LL, Weiss LK. A population based study of the quality of life of cancer survivors and their family caregivers. Cancer Nursing 2006;29:120‐31. - PubMed
Mills 2008
    1. Mills ME, Johnston BJ, Murray L, Donnelly M. The health and well‐being of family caregivers of palliative care lung cancer patients. National Cancer Research Institute Conference ICC Birmingham. 2008.
Minick 2010
    1. Minick S, Leffler C, Hodd V. Family caregivers, patients and physicians: ethical guidance to optimise relationships. Journal of General Internal Medicine 2010;25:255‐60. - PMC - PubMed
Morley 1967
    1. Morley WE, Messick JM, Aguilera DC. Crisis: Paradigms of intervention.. Journal of Psychiatric Nursing and Mental Health Services 1967;5:531‐544. - PubMed
Nijober 1999
    1. Nijober C, Triemstra M, Tempelar R, Sanderman R, Vanden Bos G. Determinants of care‐giving and mental health of partners of cancer patients. Cancer 1999;86:577‐88. - PubMed
Northouse 1995
    1. Northouse L, Dorris G, Charron‐Moore C. Factors affecting couples' adjustment to recurrent breast cancer. Social Science and Medicine 1995;42:69‐76. - PubMed
Northouse 2000
    1. Northouse L, Mood D, Templin T, Mellon S, George T. Couples' patterns of adjustment to colon cancer. Social Science and Medicine 2000;50:271‐84. - PubMed
Northouse 2012
    1. Northouse L, Katapodi M, Schafenacker A, Weiss D. The impact of caregiving on the psychological wellbeing of family caregivers and cancer patients. Seminars in Oncology 2012;28:236‐45. - PubMed
Regan 2012
    1. Regan T, Lambert S, Girgis A, Kelly B, Kayser K, Turner J. Do couple‐based interventions make a difference for couples affected by cancer: a systematic review. BMC Cancer 2012;12:279‐92. - PMC - PubMed
Rehse 2003
    1. Rehse B, Pukrop R. Effects of psychosocial interventions on quality of life in adult cancer patients: meta analysis of 37 published controlled outcome studies. Patient Education and Counselling 2003;50:179‐86. - PubMed
Rhee 2008
    1. Rhee Y, Yun Y, Park S, Shin D, Lee K, Yoo H, et al. Depression in family caregivers of cancer patients: the feeling of burden as a predictor of depression. Clinical Oncology 2008;36:5890‐5. - PubMed
Roberts 1994
    1. Roberts C, Cox C, Shannon V, Wells N. A closer look at social support as a moderator of stress in breast cancer. Health and Social Work 1994;19:157‐64. - PubMed
Ryan 2016
    1. Ryan R, Hill S. How to GRADE the quality of the evidence. Cochrane Consumers and Communication Group 2016.
Schulz 2002
    1. Schulz KF Grimes DA. Blinding in randomised trials: hiding who got what. Lancet 2002;359:696‐700. - PubMed
Scott 2013
    1. Scott D, Mills M, Black A, Cantwell M, Campbell A, Cardwell C, et al. Multidimensional rehabilitation programmes for adult cancer survivors. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2013, Issue 3. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007730.pub2] - DOI - PMC - PubMed
Sherif 2001
    1. Sherif T, Jehani T, Saadam M, Andejani AW. Adult oncology and chronically ill patients: comparison of depression, anxiety and caregivers' quality of life. Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal 2001;7:502‐9. - PubMed
Soothill 2003
    1. Soothill K, Morris S, Thomas C, Harman J, Francis B, McIllmurray MB. The universal situational and personal needs of cancer patients and their main carers. European Journal of Oncology Nursing 2003;7:5‐13. - PubMed
Stenberg 2009
    1. Stenberg U, Ruland C, Miaskowski C. Review of the literature on the effects of caring for a patient with cancer. Psycho‐Oncology 2009;10:1013‐25. - PubMed
United States DHSS 2003
    1. United States Department of Health and Human Services. National Family Caregiver Support Program. US Department of Health and Human Services 2003.
Vernooij‐Dassen 2011
    1. Vernooij‐Dassen M, Draskovic I, McCleery J, Downs M. Cognitive reframing for carers of people with dementia. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2011, Issue 11. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005318.pub2] - DOI - PubMed
Waldron 2013
    1. Waldron E, Janke A, Bechtel C, Ramierz M, Cohen A. A systematic review of psychosocial interventions to improve cancer caregivers quality of life. Psycho‐Oncology 2013;22:1200‐7. - PubMed
Weisman 1980
    1. Weisman AV, Worden JW, Sobel HJ. Psychosocial screening and intervention with cancer patients. Project Omega, (Grant No. CA‐19797) Boston: Harvard Medical School 1980.
Weitzner 1999
    1. Weizner M, McMillan S, Jacobson P. Family caregiver quality of life: differences between curative and palliative cancer treatment settings. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management 1999;17:418‐28. - PubMed

References to other published versions of this review

Santin 2012
    1. Santin O, Coleman H, Mills M, Cardwell CR, Donnelly M. Psychosocial interventions for informal caregivers of people living with cancer. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2012, Issue 6. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD009912] - DOI - PMC - PubMed

Publication types