New Therapy ACT+ Aims to Boost Quality of Life for Cancer Survivors

What is it about?

The study focused on developing and evaluating a psychological intervention called ACT+ for cancer survivors with low quality of life, integrating acceptance and commitment therapy with exercise and work support. It employed an iterative approach guided by ACT and Normalisation Process Theory, incorporating evidence from qualitative meta-synthesis, stakeholder studies, and pre-pilot testing. Patient and public involvement played a crucial role in refining the intervention, ensuring it was acceptable to both patients and healthcare professionals. The development process involved creating and refining patient-facing materials such as a participant handbook and therapist manual, with feedback from consultations and qualitative research. The study successfully produced an intervention deemed acceptable to key stakeholders, setting the stage for further examination of its effectiveness in a randomized controlled trial. The trial aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of ACT+ in aiding cancer survivors, with its protocol already published.

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Photo by Centre for Ageing Better on Unsplash

Photo by Centre for Ageing Better on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This study is important as it addresses the critical need to improve the quality of life and well-being of individuals living with and beyond cancer. By developing ACT+—a psychological intervention based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)—the research aims to specifically target and alleviate the low quality of life experienced by cancer survivors, which is often exacerbated by psychological distress and physical limitations. The study's novel approach integrates ACT with exercise and work support, offering a comprehensive and adaptable intervention that aligns with real-world contexts. This is particularly significant given the increasing number of cancer survivors and the associated challenges they face, such as psychological distress, fear of recurrence, and employment issues. The findings have implications for developing effective support strategies for cancer survivors, ultimately contributing to improved mental health and quality of life. Key Takeaways: 1. Iterative Development: The study utilized an iterative, evidence-based approach to develop ACT+, incorporating patient and public involvement (PPI) insights, stakeholder feedback, and qualitative research findings to refine the intervention for acceptability among patients and healthcare professionals. 2. Integration with Real-World Contexts: The use of Normalisation Process Theory (NPT) as a sensitizing framework ensured that ACT+ was developed to be applicable and implementable in real-world settings, enhancing its potential for successful adoption if proven effective. 3. Stakeholder Engagement: Continuous engagement with patients, healthcare professionals, and PPI contributors during the development process ensured that ACT+ addressed the practical needs and preferences of cancer survivors, supporting its feasibility and relevance for the target population.