Identifying the informational and psychosocial needs of Chinese immigrant cancer patients: A focus group study Journal Article


Authors: Leng, J.; Lee, T.; Sarpel, U.; Lau, J.; Li, Y.; Cheng, C.; Chang, M. D.; Gany, F.
Article Title: Identifying the informational and psychosocial needs of Chinese immigrant cancer patients: A focus group study
Abstract: Purpose The Chinese immigrant community faces multiple barriers to quality cancer care and cancer survivorship. Psychosocial interventions can positively impact quality of life, anxiety, and distress in cancer patients. In this study, we explored the informational and psychosocial needs of Chinese cancer patients to inform the development of culturally targeted support and survivorship interventions. Methods We conducted four focus groups with a total of 28 Chinese cancer patients to elucidate their cancer informational and psychosocial needs. The groups were conducted using standard methodology and guided by communitybased participatory research principles. Sessions were audio recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. The research team conducted the analysis. Results Frequently occurring themes included (1) the need for accurate information on cancer and treatment options, (2) the role of language barriers in accessing cancer care, (3) the role of food in cancer and the need for nutritional information, and (4) the role of Chinese medicine in cancer treatment. Participants expressed significant dissatisfaction with the amount, reliability, and/or comprehensibility of available information. Conclusions Support groups and programs should be developed to address participants' needs for more information on cancer and its treatment. Programs should educate and empower patients on how to find further Chinese language information and resources and effectively communicate their questions and needs to providers in an interpreted encounter. System-level approaches should be implemented to ensure provision of interpretation services. Additionally, programs should incorporate the unique cultural needs of this population related to food/nutrition and Chinese medicine. © Springer-Verlag 2012.
Keywords: survivorship; focus groups; immigrants; chinese; cancer support
Journal Title: Supportive Care in Cancer
Volume: 20
Issue: 12
ISSN: 0941-4355
Publisher: Springer Verlag  
Date Published: 2012-12-01
Start Page: 3221
End Page: 3229
Language: English
DOI: 10.1007/s00520-012-1464-1
PROVIDER: scopus
PUBMED: 22531877
PMCID: PMC5467969
DOI/URL:
Notes: --- - "Export Date: 3 December 2012" - "CODEN: SCCAE" - "Source: Scopus"
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  1. Jennifer Chung Foung Leng
    78 Leng
  2. Francesca Mara Gany
    216 Gany
  3. Catherine Cheng
    4 Cheng
  4. Trevor Gage Lee
    7 Lee
  5. Yanjun Li
    3 Li