Prevalence and correlates of the supportive care needs of Italian early-stage melanoma patients in follow-up. Issue 6 (2nd November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Miniotti, Marco; Zeneli, Anita; Bassino, Stefania; Pavan, Sara; Ribero, Simone; Leombruni, Paolo
• Is Part Of: Journal of psychosocial oncology. Volume 37:Issue 6(2019)
• Page Start: 746
• Page End: 757
• Publication Date: 2019-11-02
• Subjects: cancer -- distress -- melanoma -- psycho-oncology -- supportive care needs; Cancer -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 362.196994
• DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2019.1612973
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0734-7332

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose: To describe the supportive care needs of early-stage Italian melanoma patients and identify the predictors of unmet needs. Design: Bicenter cross-sectional. Sample: Two hundred eight (TIS-T3) melanoma patients in follow-up. Methods: In person self-assessment procedures; the Supportive Care Needs Survey short-form 34, the Distress Thermometer and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were used. Results: Of the patients surveyed, 56% experienced at least one or more moderate-to-high unmet needs. Lack of melanoma-specific information and psychological support aids were the most intense sources of need. Being aged 60–69 years, retired and distressed predicted unmet needs. Conclusions: This study's results demonstrate the need to implement supportive care needs screening among Italian early-stage melanoma patients during follow-up and to improve patient information and psychological support. Implications for psychosocial providers or policy: Providing patients with a point person within the hospital staff who centralizes the demand and refers to appropriate interventions may help the management of unmet needs.