Integrated support in neoplastic patient and family: experience of molise in ccm 2012 project

Abstract

Background: The cancers are chronic diseases in which the medical approach alone is not sufficient. The CCM 2012 project promoted by the Emilia Romagna involves the activation, for small groups, of paths aimed at assessing the changes induced by the disease and set a goal of health. Involved patients aged between 40 and 60 years, with colon and breast cancer, with adjuvant therapy ended not more than 1 year. Materials and methods: 1 interview to explain the purpose of the meetings and evaluate the motives, 4 weekly meetings, follow-up at 1 and 6 months. 1° wk: material delivery and constitution group; brainstorming on the words health/disease; expressive workshop (card images of places, emotions/analogies); relaxation activities (hero's journey). 2° wk: expressive lab ( pairs opposite and activities cards); analysis of relational needs; training for self-regulation of behavior. 3° wk: discussion and choice of health objective; choice of individual transformation process. 4° wk: bargaining goal of health; programming the remote controls. Aim of the course: rework the disease lived, change lifestyles (alcohol and smoking), promote physical activity, education on proper nutrition through specific workshops. Results: Informed consent was obtained from 18 people (2 men, 16 women; 3 colon and 15 breast cancer). The disease is described with precise images (tortuous and tiring) generating anxiety, restlessness, anger and fear, but in a positive family environment and care. Compared to lifestyle while recognizing as risk factors alcohol and smoking some persist in habits; as for physical activity and nutrition. Conclusions: In the group showed the importance of sharing emotions related to the disease. A correct lifestyle allows recovery of psychological wellfare and the choice of target health conscious the possibility of change. For smoking, patients believe that it is an important goal, but hardly actionable for this would be desirable to increase smoking cessation workshops, already active with LILT and other prevention interventions.