Design, development, and feasibility of a spanish-language cancer survivor support group.

PURPOSE: Latino cancer survivors experience lower psychosocial well-being compared to non-Latino Whites. This study describes the development of a culturally appropriate support group and reports on feasibility of implementation and preliminary outcomes.
METHODS: Promotores (lay health workers) conducted all aspects of data collection and program implementation. Participants were 29 Spanish-speaking Latino cancer survivors (n = 12 men, 17 women) who took part in one of three study phases. Phase 1 included one-on-one interviews and focus groups (n = 14) to investigate psychosocial needs of survivors. During phase 2, a 10-week program was developed that integrated data from phase 1 and culturally relevant concepts. Session topics included stress, nutrition, physical activity, body image, sexuality, medical advocacy, and social support. In phase 3, the program was implemented within gender-specific groups (n = 15). Within-group pre-post comparisons of distress (distress thermometer, salivary cortisol) and quality of life (FACIT) were conducted. Follow-up focus groups assessed participant experience
RESULTS: Phase 1 activities identified survivor needs and interests (e.g., isolation, family and spirituality, supporting other Latinos with cancer). Evidence of program feasibility was demonstrated (e.g., 90-100% attendance, 100% data completion). While interpretation of significance is limited due to sample size, improvements in quality of life [functional (p = 0.05), social (p = 0.02), and meaning/purpose (p = 0.05)] were observed among women but not men. Qualitative follow-up revealed high satisfaction with group participation, but discomfort with the topic of sexuality in women.
CONCLUSIONS: This project demonstrates development and feasibility outcomes for providing culturally appropriate psychosocial support to Latino cancer survivors. Limitations, including lack of control group, and future directions are discussed.