2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC) - Posters-P2.16E.02 Emotional Support Resource Access and Utilization Among People with Lung Cancer

Pdf Summary

The study "Emotional Support Resource Access and Utilization among People with Lung Cancer" investigates the accessibility and usage of emotional support resources by lung cancer patients, who exhibit significant psychological distress and depression. This distress is notably higher—up to 80%—compared to other cancer types. Despite such high psychological needs, mental health services remain underutilized among this group.<br /><br />The research focused on lung cancer patients reporting depression, assessing their access to emotional support like counseling and support groups. The study used data from patient-reported registries and analyzed factors influencing resource utilization.<br /><br />Key Findings:<br />- Out of 82 participants reporting at least some depression, only 36 (43.9%) utilized support resources.<br />- There was a significant finding regarding geographical proximity: those living closer to an NCI-Designated Cancer Center were more likely to access support (average of 30 miles distance for utilizers versus 54 miles for non-utilizers, p=0.007).<br /><br />Demographic and clinical characteristics showed no significant differences between those who accessed resources and those who didn't, aside from geographic distance and resource accessibility. Gender distribution and stage of disease did not profoundly affect resource utilization. <br /><br />The study highlights the need for improved collaboration between healthcare providers and advocacy groups to increase accessibility to emotional support programs. Future research should consider larger sample sizes to better understand barriers to accessing support, especially for those reporting depression.<br /><br />The findings suggest that reducing travel distance or offering virtual support programs might improve support utilization among lung cancer patients, addressing their substantial mental health needs more effectively.

Asset Subtitle

Heather Law

Meta Tag

Speaker Heather Law

Topic Patient Advocacy

Keywords

lung cancer

emotional support

psychological distress

mental health services

resource utilization

counseling

support groups

geographical proximity

NCI-Designated Cancer Center

virtual support programs