ORCID Profile
0000-0003-0715-3563
Current Organisation
University of South Australia
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Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 17-12-2022
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-05-2021
Abstract: Despite evidence that survivorship support programmes enhance physical and psychosocial wellbeing, cancer patients and survivors often do not use these supportive care services. This study investigated the utility of the Common Sense Model of Self-Regulation for predicting supportive care use following cancer, and the mediating role of coping strategies. Cancer patients and survivors (n = 336 from Australia, n = 61 from the UK 191 males, 206 females) aged 20–83 years (Mean (M) = 62.73, Standard Deviation (SD) = 13.28) completed an online questionnaire. Predictor variables were cognitive and emotional representations of cancer, as measured by the Illness Perception Questionnaire—Revised (IPQ-R), and problem- and emotion-focused coping strategies, as measured by the Brief-Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced inventory (Brief-COPE). The outcome variable was survivorship support programme use within the preceding month. Perceived personal control over cancer predicted supportive care use, but cancer-related emotional distress did not. Coping was an inconsistent mediator of the relationships. Problem-focused coping mediated the relationship between personal control and supportive care use emotion-focused coping did not mediate between emotional responses to cancer and the uptake of survivorship support programmes. The Common Sense Model provides a useful framework for understanding survivorship support programme use. However, more clarity around the relationship between illness beliefs and coping is required.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 11-01-2022
DOI: 10.2196/27631
Abstract: Farming is physically and psychologically hazardous. Farmers face many barriers to help seeking from traditional physical and mental health services however, improved internet access now provides promising avenues for offering support. This study aims to co-design with farmers the content and functionality of a website that helps them adopt transferable coping strategies and test its acceptability in the broader farming population. Research evidence and expert opinions were synthesized to inform key design principles. A total of 18 farmers detailed what they would like from this type of website. Intervention logic and relevant evidence-based strategies were mapped. Website content was drafted and reviewed by 2 independent mental health professionals. A total of 9 farmers provided detailed qualitative feedback on the face validity of the draft content. Subsequently, 9 farmers provided feedback on the website prototype. Following amendments and internal prototype testing and optimization, prototype usability (ie, completion rate) was examined with 157 registered website users who were (105/157, 66.9%) female, aged 21-73 years 95.5% (149/156) residing in inner regional to very remote Australia, and 68.2% (107/157) “sheep, cattle and/or grain farmers.” Acceptability was examined with a subset of 114 users who rated at least module 1. Interviews with 108 farmers who did not complete all 5 modules helped determine why, and detailed interviews were conducted with 18 purposively s led users. Updates were then made according to adaptive trial design methodology. This systematic co-design process resulted in a web-based resource based on acceptance and commitment therapy and designed to overcome barriers to engagement with traditional mental health and well-being strategies—ifarmwell. It was considered an accessible and confidential source of practical and relevant farmer-focused self-help strategies. These strategies were delivered via 5 interactive modules that include written, drawn, and audio- and video-based psychoeducation and exercises, as well as farming-related jokes, metaphors, ex les, and imagery. Module 1 included distress screening and information on how to speak to general practitioners about mental health–related concerns (including a personalized conversation script). Modules were completed fortnightly. SMS text messages offered personalized support and reminders. Qualitative interviews and star ratings demonstrated high module acceptability (average 4.06/5 rating) and suggested that additional reminders, higher quality audio recordings, and shorter modules would be useful. Approximately 37.1% (52/140) of users who started module 1 completed all modules, with too busy or not got to it yet being the main reason for non-completion, and previous module acceptability not predicting subsequent module completion. Sequential integration of research evidence, expert knowledge, and farmers’ preferences in the co-design process allowed for the development of a self-help intervention that focused on important intervention targets and was acceptable to this difficult-to-engage group. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12617000506392 www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=372526
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-06-2023
DOI: 10.1111/AJR.13008
Abstract: A growing body of research has examined the physical, psychological, social and financial impacts of living kidney donation. However, little is known about the unique experiences or additional burdens faced by living donors from regional or remote locations. To explore the experiences of living kidney donors who live outside metropolitan centres and to determine how support services could be orientated to better meet their unique needs. Seventeen living kidney donors participated in semistructured telephone interviews. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Eight themes were identified: (1) donor's emotional well‐being is influenced by the recipient's outcome, (2) varied levels of access to medical support and other important services in rural areas, (3) travel takes a toll on time, finances and well‐being, (4) varied level of financial impact, (5) medical, emotional and social challenges, (6) both lay and health professional support is valued, (7) varied levels of knowledge and experiences accessing information and (8) a worthwhile experience overall. Despite many challenges, and travel adding to the complexity, rural living kidney donors generally consider it to be a worthwhile experience. The provision of additional emotional, practical and educational support would be welcomed by this group.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 08-02-2022
DOI: 10.2196/31018
Abstract: A large number of Australians experience mental health challenges at some point in their lives. However, in many parts of Australia, the wait times to see general practitioners and mental health professionals can be lengthy. With increasing internet use across Australia, web-based interventions may help increase access to timely mental health care. As a result, this is an area of increasing research interest, and the number of publicly available web-based interventions is growing. However, it can be confusing for clinicians and consumers to know the resources that are evidence-based and best meet their needs. This study aims to scope out the range of web-based mental health interventions that address depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, or general mental well-being and are freely available to Australian adults, along with their impact, acceptability, therapeutic approach, and key features. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR [PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews]) guided the review process. Keywords for the search were depression, anxiety, suicide, and well-being. The search was conducted using Google as well as the key intervention databases Beacon, Head to Health, and e-Mental Health in Practice. Interventions were deemed eligible if they targeted depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, or general mental well-being (eg, resilience) in adults and were web-based, written in English, interactive, free, and publicly available. They also had to be guided by an evidence-based therapeutic approach. Overall, 52 eligible programs were identified, of which 9 (17%) addressed depression, 15 (29%) addressed anxiety, 13 (25%) addressed general mental well-being, and 13 (25%) addressed multiple issues. Only 4% (2/52) addressed distress in the form of suicidal ideation. The most common therapeutic approach was cognitive behavioral therapy. Half of the programs guided users through exercises in a set sequence, and most programs enabled users to log in and complete the activities on their own without professional support. Just over half of the programs had been evaluated for their effectiveness in reducing symptoms, and 11% (6/52) were being evaluated at the time of writing. Program evaluation scores ranged from 44% to 100%, with a total average score of 85%. There are numerous web-based programs for depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and general well-being, which are freely and publicly available in Australia. However, identified gaps include a lack of available web-based interventions for culturally and linguistically erse populations and programs that use newer therapeutic approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. Despite most programs included in this review being of good quality, clinicians and consumers should pay careful attention when selecting which program to recommend and use, as variations in the levels of acceptability and impact of publicly available programs do exist.
Publisher: Morressier
Date: 19-06-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2016.01.022
Abstract: Extrinsic information, such as packaging, branding and labeling, can significantly alter our experience of food and drink through a process of 'sensation transfer', in which extrinsic attributes are transferred to our sensory perception of a product. The aim of this review was to summarize the literature on sensation transfer for unhealthy food and drink and to investigate personal factors that may influence its occurrence. Seventy-eight studies in 69 articles, published between 1966 and 2014 were identified which evaluated sensation transfer. Sixty-five of the 78 studies found an effect of extrinsic information on taste and/or hedonic outcomes, providing strong evidence for sensation transfer. The majority of studies identified that specific extrinsic information influenced particular products or specific sensory outcomes. Study designs incorporating a measure of expectation allowed a tighter assessment of sensation transfer. The results of such studies confirm the hypothesis that these effects occur when extrinsic information elicits an expectation of product taste, which then forms a framework to guide sensory perception. These studies also support the hypothesis that where sensation transfer does not occur, this is likely due to a mismatch between the expectations elicited by the extrinsic information and the sensory characteristics being measured, or the failure of the extrinsic information to elicit an expectation of taste for that product.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.EJON.2018.02.007
Abstract: A cancer diagnosis and treatment may have significant implications for a young patient's future fertility. Documentation of fertility-related discussions and actions is crucial to providing the best follow-up care, which may occur for many years post-treatment. This study examined the rate of medical record documentation of fertility-related discussions and fertility preservation (FP) procedures for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer in Australia. A retrospective review of medical records for 941 patients in all six Australian states. Patients were identified through population-based cancer registries (four states) and hospital admission lists (two states). Trained data collectors extracted information from medical records using a comprehensive data collection survey. Records were reviewed for AYA patients (aged 15-24 years at diagnosis), diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, central nervous system (CNS) tumours, soft tissue sarcomas (STS), primary bone cancer or Ewing's family tumours between 2007 and 2012. 47.2% of patients had a documented fertility discussion and 35.9% had a documented FP procedure. Fertility-related documentation was less likely for female patients, those with a CNS or STS diagnosis and those receiving high-risk treatments. In multivariable models, adult hospitals with an AYA focus were more likely to document fertility discussions (odds ratio[OR] = 1.60 95%CI = 1.08-2.37) and FP procedures (OR = 1.74 95%CI = 1.17-2.57) than adult hospitals with no AYA services. These data provide the first national, population-based estimates of fertility documentation for AYA cancer patients in Australia. Documentation of fertility-related discussions was poor, with higher rates observed in hospitals with greater experience of treating AYA patients.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 06-2018
Abstract: To examine the care experiences of Australian Adolescents and Young Adults (AYAs) with cancer during a period when youth cancer services (YCS) were developing across the country. A cross-sectional, self-report survey completed by 207 recently diagnosed AYAs with cancer, recruited from the population-based cancer registries of Australia's two most populous states. AYAs were 15 to 24 years old when diagnosed with any form of cancer (except melanoma <3 mm or stage I/II). Respondents indicated whether certain events/experiences occurred at various points along the cancer care pathway and the treatment centers attended. Treatment centers with YCS were identified. Participating AYAs were an average of 9 months post-diagnosis. AYAs were treated in over 60 centers, with only 31% attending YCS. While experiences relating to delivery of treatment were generally positive, supportive care experiences and emotional support were missing for many. Information provision at the end of treatment was low, with 60% not receiving a treatment summary and 50% not receiving a written follow-up care plan. In addition, 42% never/rarely received information relevant to their age, and only 54% reported that healthcare professionals definitely checked their understanding of the information provided. AYAs attending YCS were more likely to report age-appropriate treatment settings, information provision, and emotional support. While care experiences were generally positive for most AYAs, attending YCS was associated with better communication and supportive care experiences. As only a third of the AYAs surveyed attended these services, efforts are needed to increase AYA access to YCS.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 03-06-2013
DOI: 10.1111/ECC.12053
Abstract: Many users of Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAMs) claim that participation leads to improved well-being however, contradictory evidence exists, with some studies linking CAM use with poorer quality of life (QoL) or increased distress. This study explored whether an in idual's experience of post-traumatic growth (PTG) following cancer may play a role in explaining these disparate outcomes. One hundred and sixty-one cancer survivors (mean age = 58.96, SD = 12.12) completed measures comprised of PTG (Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory), CAM use, QoL (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy scale + Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Spiritual Well-Being Scale), post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (Impact of Event Scale Revised) and depression, anxiety and stress (21-item short-form Depression Anxiety Stress Scale). A multiple regression controlling for gender, age, general and cancer-specific distress indicated support for PTG as a mediator of the relationship between CAM and QoL. An in idual's experience of PTG following cancer may be an important determinant of gaining benefit from participation in CAMs. Future research aimed at identifying potential facilitators of PTG may result in increased benefits of interventions aimed at improving adjustment among cancer survivors.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 02-2021
Abstract: arming is physically and psychologically hazardous. Farmers face many barriers to help seeking from traditional physical and mental health services however, improved internet access now provides promising avenues for offering support. his study aims to co-design with farmers the content and functionality of a website that helps them adopt transferable coping strategies and test its acceptability in the broader farming population. esearch evidence and expert opinions were synthesized to inform key design principles. A total of 18 farmers detailed what they would like from this type of website. Intervention logic and relevant evidence-based strategies were mapped. Website content was drafted and reviewed by 2 independent mental health professionals. A total of 9 farmers provided detailed qualitative feedback on the face validity of the draft content. Subsequently, 9 farmers provided feedback on the website prototype. Following amendments and internal prototype testing and optimization, prototype usability (ie, completion rate) was examined with 157 registered website users who were (105/157, 66.9%) female, aged 21-73 years 95.5% (149/156) residing in inner regional to very remote Australia, and 68.2% (107/157) “sheep, cattle and/or grain farmers.” Acceptability was examined with a subset of 114 users who rated at least module 1. Interviews with 108 farmers who did not complete all 5 modules helped determine why, and detailed interviews were conducted with 18 purposively s led users. Updates were then made according to adaptive trial design methodology. his systematic co-design process resulted in a web-based resource based on acceptance and commitment therapy and designed to overcome barriers to engagement with traditional mental health and well-being strategies—ifarmwell. It was considered an accessible and confidential source of practical and relevant farmer-focused self-help strategies. These strategies were delivered via 5 interactive modules that include written, drawn, and audio- and video-based psychoeducation and exercises, as well as farming-related jokes, metaphors, ex les, and imagery. Module 1 included distress screening and information on how to speak to general practitioners about mental health–related concerns (including a personalized conversation script). Modules were completed fortnightly. SMS text messages offered personalized support and reminders. Qualitative interviews and star ratings demonstrated high module acceptability (average 4.06/5 rating) and suggested that additional reminders, higher quality audio recordings, and shorter modules would be useful. Approximately 37.1% (52/140) of users who started module 1 completed all modules, with i too busy /i or i not got to it yet /i being the main reason for non-completion, and previous module acceptability not predicting subsequent module completion. equential integration of research evidence, expert knowledge, and farmers’ preferences in the co-design process allowed for the development of a self-help intervention that focused on important intervention targets and was acceptable to this difficult-to-engage group. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12617000506392 www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=372526
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-08-2020
DOI: 10.1002/PON.5503
Publisher: Morressier
Date: 29-06-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-03-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-03-2023
DOI: 10.1111/JAN.15636
Abstract: To (a) explore the experiences of early career registered nurses in rural hospitals in Australia and (b) identify strategies they believe would help increase job satisfaction and retention. Qualitative descriptive design. Thirteen registered nurses located in outer regional, remote or very remote (herein ‘rural’) Australian hospitals participated in semi‐structured interviews. Participants had graduated from a Bachelor of Nursing program in 2018–2020. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and an essentialist, bottom‐up approach. Seven themes related to the experiences of rural early career nursing: (1) appreciate erse scope of practice (2) rewarding sense of community and opportunity to give back (3) staff support determines the quality of experience (4) feeling underprepared and the need for ongoing education (5) erse views on the optimal length of rotation and level of input into choice of clinical area (6) difficulty maintaining work/life balance due to work hours and rostering and (7) lack of staff and resources. Strategies to improve nurses' experiences included: (1) assistance with accommodation and transport (2) social gatherings to enhance connection (3) sufficient orientation and supernumerary time (4) increased frequency of contact with clinical facilitators and multiple mentors (5) prioritizing clinical education across erse topics (6) greater involvement in choice of rotations and clinical areas and (7) desire for more flexible work hours and rostering. This study highlighted the experiences of rural nurses and explored their suggestions for how to overcome challenges in their roles. Greater consideration of early career registered nurses' needs and preferences is vital to improving and maintaining a satisfied, dedicated and sustainable rural nursing workforce. Many of the strategies for improving job retention identified by nurses in this study could be actioned at a local level, with little financial or time investment. No Patient or Public Contribution.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTCP.2018.05.004
Abstract: The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the potential for a spa bath intervention to reduce the perception of pain and anxiety, and to improve well-being, among palliative patients. 52 palliative care patients rated their pain, anxiety and well-being before and after taking a bath in a purpose-built spa bath designed to accommodate frail and unwell patients. The intervention improved patients' self-reported pain (t(51) = -6.13, p<.001, d The provision of a spa bath may be a simple and effective way to improve patients' quality of life, within the normal course of nursing duties. Whether these results are achieved in a controlled trial and the duration of these effects is unknown. These preliminary results justify further investigation of the potential for water-based relaxation therapy for patients at the end-of-life.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 04-2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-05-2023
DOI: 10.1111/JRH.12768
Abstract: The aim of this research was to develop a contextually and culturally appropriate scale to assess farmers’ barriers to health‐related help‐seeking. An initial pool of items was developed from the academic literature and input from an expert panel of farmers, rural academics, and rural clinicians. A draft 32‐item questionnaire was then developed and sent to farmers registered with FARMbase, which is an Australian national farmer database. Two hundred and seventy‐four farmers completed the draft questionnaire (93.7% male, 73.7% aged 56‐75 years). An exploratory factor analysis identified 6 factors “Health Issues are a Low Priority,” “Concerns about Stigma,” “Structural Health System Barriers,” “Minimization and Normalization,” “Communication Barriers,” and “Continuity of Care.”. Test‐retest reliability was examined with a further 10 farmers (90% male, Mean age = 57, SD = 5.91), who completed the questionnaire twice (at 2‐ to 3‐week intervals). Results indicated moderate‐good test‐retest reliability. The resulting 24‐item Farmer Help‐Seeking Scale provides a measure of help‐seeking that is specifically designed to capture the unique context, culture, and attitudes that can interfere with farmers’ help‐seeking, and inform the development of strategies to increase health‐service utilization in this at‐risk group.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-09-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2022
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 29-06-2018
DOI: 10.1111/ECC.12869
Abstract: To improve understanding of the triage process following distress and problem identification and the factors associated with offer and acceptance of supportive care referrals. Review of patient records/charts at a metropolitan hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Data were collected on problem identifications from 1/1/13 to 30/6/14, including patient demographics, disease and treatment information, responses to the NCCN Distress Thermometer (DT) and Problem Checklist (PC), whether referrals to supportive care services were offered and accepted/declined. Logistic regressions examined factors associated with referral offer and acceptance. Of patients completing the DT/PC, 50.1% reported a high level of distress. Overall, 61% of patients were offered referral(s), with the majority (71%) being accepted. Referrals were more likely to be offered to patients with a greater number of problems (Odds Ratio[OR] = 1.18, 95%CI = 1.12-1.25) and higher distress (OR = 1.68, 95%CI = 1.07-2.64). Referrals were more likely to be accepted by patients with a greater number of problems (OR = 1.12, 95%CI = 1.06-1.19) and lower distress (OR = 0.58, 95%CI = 0.34-1.00). The type of problem experienced by the patient was strongly related to the type of referral they were offered. At a large metropolitan hospital with in-house supportive care services, simple problem identification with the DT/PC enabled triage to services that reflected patients' needs. The findings suggest that clear referral pathways and an organisational emphasis on supportive care may facilitate service use.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.CRITREVONC.2019.102838
Abstract: Despite improved mortality rates, cognitive and academic difficulties are evident in some childhood cancer survivor groups. This meta-analysis aims to determine whether: 1) survivors have lower educational attainment than non-cancer controls 2) educational attainment varies according to cancer type (CNS versus non-CNS) and 3) whether an early age of diagnosis confers greater disadvantage. A systematic search utilising the terms "neoplasms", "childhood", "educational attainment" and other related terms retrieved 2256 records from Embase, Medline and PsycINFO. Eleven studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. Survivors were less likely than controls to graduate from high school (OR = 0.74, 95 % CI: [0.60 0.92]) or university (OR = 0.74, 95 % CI: [0.58 0.94]). Although educational attainment in survivors of CNS cancer is reduced, non-CNS cancer survivors tend to attain similar educational status to controls. Additionally, there is some evidence that a diagnosis prior to adolescence may reduce the likelihood of high school, but not university, graduation.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 15-05-2018
DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2018.1443986
Abstract: This study investigated the impact of fertility-related discussions on Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) cancer patients' quality of life (QoL) and the factors influencing provision of these discussions. Recruitment was conducted through population-based state cancer registries. Eligible AYAs were 15-24 years at diagnosis, 3-24 months postdiagnosis, with any cancer (except early stage melanoma). As part of a larger survey, AYAs were asked about their experiences of fertility-related discussions and QoL (FACT-G). Of the 207 AYAs returning surveys (29% response rate) 88% reported a discussion about infertility risks, 75% reported a discussion about preservation options and 59% were offered a referral to a fertility specialist. Patients attending health services with an AYA focus were more likely than those attending other types of centers to report discussions of fertility preservation (FP) options (85% versus 67%) and referrals (75% versus 49%). Social well-being was positively related to discussions about preservation options and being provided fertility risk information in a sensitive, supportive manner. Providing a sensitive and proactive discussion about fertility-related risks may benefit AYAs' well-being. Services with an AYA focus are fulfilling their mandate of ensuring optimal fertility-related care for AYA cancer patients.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 06-2019
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 02-07-2021
DOI: 10.12968/IJPN.2021.27.5.245
Abstract: Little research examines the extent and impact of aggressive or uncomfortable ‘confronting behaviour’ experienced by palliative care nurses, despite palliative wards being an emotionally labile environment. Qualitative data on nurses' experiences of confrontation were collected from 17 palliative care nurses at a major metropolitan hospital via a focus group and in idual interviews. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results indicated that family members were the main perpetrators and tolerance of confrontation varied dependent on the characteristics of the aggressor. Confrontation was described as arising in response to grief, and because of misunderstandings of palliative care goals. Nurses reported a perceived lack of appreciation for their work from some patients' families and feelings of discontent with the nature and amount of structured support available following a confrontation. Informal workplace support helped nurses to deal with these incidents and, despite bad experiences, nurses affirmed their commitment to working in this area. The findings demonstrate the demands placed on nurses working in palliative care, and the importance of compassion in moderating the impact of a challenging environment.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 07-06-2021
Abstract: large number of Australians experience mental health challenges at some point in their lives. However, in many parts of Australia, the wait times to see general practitioners and mental health professionals can be lengthy. With increasing internet use across Australia, web-based interventions may help increase access to timely mental health care. As a result, this is an area of increasing research interest, and the number of publicly available web-based interventions is growing. However, it can be confusing for clinicians and consumers to know the resources that are evidence-based and best meet their needs. his study aims to scope out the range of web-based mental health interventions that address depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, or general mental well-being and are freely available to Australian adults, along with their impact, acceptability, therapeutic approach, and key features. he PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR [PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews]) guided the review process. Keywords for the search were depression, anxiety, suicide, and well-being. The search was conducted using Google as well as the key intervention databases Beacon, Head to Health, and e-Mental Health in Practice. Interventions were deemed eligible if they targeted depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, or general mental well-being (eg, resilience) in adults and were web-based, written in English, interactive, free, and publicly available. They also had to be guided by an evidence-based therapeutic approach. verall, 52 eligible programs were identified, of which 9 (17%) addressed depression, 15 (29%) addressed anxiety, 13 (25%) addressed general mental well-being, and 13 (25%) addressed multiple issues. Only 4% (2/52) addressed distress in the form of suicidal ideation. The most common therapeutic approach was cognitive behavioral therapy. Half of the programs guided users through exercises in a set sequence, and most programs enabled users to log in and complete the activities on their own without professional support. Just over half of the programs had been evaluated for their effectiveness in reducing symptoms, and 11% (6/52) were being evaluated at the time of writing. Program evaluation scores ranged from 44% to 100%, with a total average score of 85%. here are numerous web-based programs for depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and general well-being, which are freely and publicly available in Australia. However, identified gaps include a lack of available web-based interventions for culturally and linguistically erse populations and programs that use newer therapeutic approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. Despite most programs included in this review being of good quality, clinicians and consumers should pay careful attention when selecting which program to recommend and use, as variations in the levels of acceptability and impact of publicly available programs do exist.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1071/PY13157
Abstract: Smoking prevalence among Aboriginal Australian young people greatly exceeds the prevalence in the broader population of Australian young people, yet limited research has explored the social context in which young Aboriginal Australians smoke. Four focus groups were conducted in 2009 with South Australian Aboriginal smokers aged 15–29 years residing in urban areas (n = 32) to examine attitudes and experiences surrounding smoking and quitting. The primary reasons for smoking initiation and maintenance among Aboriginal Australian young people were identified as stress, social influence and boredom. Motivators for quitting were identified as pregnancy and/or children, sporting performance (males only), cost issues and, to a lesser extent, health reasons. The barriers to cessation were identified as social influence, the perception of quitting as a distant event and reluctance to access cessation support. However, it appears that social influences and stress were particularly salient contributors to smoking maintenance among Aboriginal Australian young people. Smoking cessation interventions targeted at young urban Aboriginal Australian smokers should aim to build motivation to quit by utilising the motivators of pregnancy and/or children, sporting performance (males only), cost issues and, to a lesser extent, health reasons, while acknowledging the pertinent role of social influence and stress in the lives of young urban Aboriginal Australian smokers.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-02-2021
Publisher: Morressier
Date: 05-06-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-01-2018
DOI: 10.1002/PON.4625
Abstract: To examine the relationship between the cancer care experiences of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) and their quality of life. Two hundred and nine AYAs completed a cross-sectional, self-report survey distributed through the population-based cancer registries in 2 Australian states (New South Wales and Victoria). Eligible AYAs were 15 to 24 years old when diagnosed with any cancer (excluding early-stage melanoma) and were 3 to 24 months post-diagnosis. Questions examined whether particular care experiences occurred for the patient at different points in the cancer care pathway, including diagnosis, treatment, inpatient care, and at the end of treatment. Quality of life was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General scale. Positive experiences of care at diagnosis, during treatment, during inpatient stays, and when finishing treatment were associated with higher functional, emotional, and social well-being. However, these associations generally became nonsignificant when communication and support experiences were included in the model. Inpatient experiences positively influenced emotional well-being over and above the effect of communication and support experiences. The results suggest that, for most AYAs' quality of life outcomes, positive experiences of age-appropriate communication and emotional support may underpin the effect of positive experiences of care throughout the cancer care pathway. The results support the need for communication and support tailored to an AYA audience, as recognised by recent Australian and international guidelines on the care of AYAs with cancer.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-07-2018
DOI: 10.1002/PBC.27349
Abstract: While several studies have examined the treatment of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), studies of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are rare. Using national data for Australia, we describe (i) the number and type of treatment centers caring for AYAs, (ii) induction/first-line treatments, and (iii) survival outcomes. National population-based study assessing treatment of 15- to 24-year-olds diagnosed with ALL or AML between 2007 and 2012. Treatment details were abstracted from hospital medical records. Treatment centers were classified as pediatric or adult (adult AYA-focused or other adult and by AYA volume [high/low]). Cox proportional hazard regression analyses examined associations between treatment and overall, event-free, and relapse-free survival outcomes. Forty-seven hospitals delivered induction therapy to 351 patients (181 ALL and 170 AML), with 74 (21%) treated at pediatric centers 70% of hospitals treated less than two AYA leukemia patients per year. Regardless of treatment center, 82% of ALL patients were on pediatric protocols. For AML, pediatric protocols were not used in adult centers, with adult centers using a non-COG 7+3-type induction protocol (51%, where COG is Cooperative Oncology Group) or an ICE-type protocol (39%, where ICE is idarubicin, cytarabine, etoposide). Exploratory analyses suggested that for both ALL and AML, AYAs selected for adult protocols have worse overall, event-free, and relapse-free survival outcomes. Pediatric protocols were commonly used for ALL patients regardless of where they are treated, indicating rapid assimilation of recent evidence by Australian hematologists. For AML, pediatric protocols were only used at pediatric centers. Further investigation is warranted to determine the optimal treatment approach for AYA AML patients.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1053/J.SEMINONCOL.2018.04.002
Abstract: International data indicate that rates of clinical trial enrolment for Adolescents and Young Adults (AYAs) with cancer are markedly lower than for any other age group. This paper reviews the recent literature reporting international trends in clinical trial enrolment since 2010. Subsequently, we present the first population-based, national assessment of clinical trial enrolment for AYAs with cancer in Australia. Reported rates of trial enrolment from Australia, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom were variable, though consistently low, ranging between 2% and 29%. Trial enrolment was higher for younger AYAs (typically 15-19 years) and those attending pediatric hospitals, and this was replicated in the recent Australian data. The findings highlight a lack of substantial improvement in AYA clinical trial enrolment and in particular, a need for improved opportunities to access trials for patients treated at adult centers.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-07-2021
DOI: 10.1002/PON.5755
Abstract: To identify variables that correlate with sexual satisfaction and sexual distress among adult cancer survivors, and how these differ, providing a basis from which approaches to intervention may be identified. This study examined four key variables: body image disruption, self‐compassion, relationship satisfaction and sexual pain, previously all linked to sexual quality of life. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted online, with participants ( n = 113) recruited via cancer charities, support groups and sexual counsellors' networks. A multivariate multiple regression analysis was conducted to analyse relationships among variables. In a regression adjusted for age, sex and time since diagnosis, higher sexual distress was significantly associated with higher body image disruption ( β = 0.23 p = 0.024), lower self‐compassion ( β = −0.29 p = 0.009) and higher sexual pain ( β = 0.39 p 0.001) but not relationship satisfaction ( β = −0.08 p = 0.434). Higher sexual satisfaction was significantly associated with higher relationship satisfaction ( β = 0.35 p = 0.002) and lower sexual pain ( β = −0.29 p = 0.005), but not body image disruption ( β = −0.19 p = 0.089), or self‐compassion ( β = 0.06 p = 0.614). Sexual pain had a significantly stronger association with sexual distress than sexual satisfaction F (1, 84) = 18.29, p 0.001. Sexual distress and sexual satisfaction are associated with different psycho‐social correlates even though both are used as indicators of sexual health. Research should seek to further understand the differences in these two critical markers of sexual health, with these differences likely to highlight the need to match interventions to the nature of the sexual difficulties experienced following cancer treatment.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 2017
No related grants have been discovered for Gemma Skaczkowski.