Psychological effects and mediators of a group multi-component program for breast cancer survivors

J Behav Med. 2010 Oct;33(5):378-91. doi: 10.1007/s10865-010-9265-9. Epub 2010 May 26.

Abstract

This study evaluated the short-term impact of YWCA Encore, a mixed-modality group exercise and information support program for breast cancer patients situated in the community setting. Australian post-surgical breast cancer patients (N = 162) were assigned to either the 8-week Encore intervention or a Waitlist control. Intervention impact was assessed in terms of quality of life, cancer-specific distress, and social support. Changes in familiarity with exercise, self-efficacy and social support were tested as mediators of the intervention impact on quality of life. Overall adherence and satisfaction with the program were high. Significant enhancements at follow-up for quality of life and social support were evident for intervention compared with control participants. Familiarity with exercise and self-efficacy satisfied the requirements for mediation of quality of life. These findings provide evidence for psychosocial benefits of YWCA Encore multi-component program and support the use of such community-based programs for breast cancer survivors. The role of exercise familiarity and self-efficacy as probable mediators of the multi-component intervention is a critical finding and highlights the need for future investigations into the underlying mediating processes of similar interventions for cancer patients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Attitude to Health
  • Breast Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / rehabilitation
  • Exercise / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Patient Compliance
  • Patient Education as Topic / methods
  • Psychotherapy, Group / methods*
  • Quality of Life
  • Self Efficacy
  • Social Support
  • Stress, Psychological / prevention & control
  • Survivors / psychology*