Cancer self help groups are underused

Editor—It is now established that patients with cancer are prone to psychosocial problems, and recent reviews have shown that they can benefit from taking part in self help or support groups.1 2 The chief medical officer recommended that cancer centres and units should encourage local self help groups,3 but only 48% of oncologists in a recent survey do so.

In a controlled study Spiegel et al showed expressive-supportive group therapy to be effective in improving mood (while the mood of control patients deteriorated), reducing maladaptive coping responses, and reducing pain.4 The treatment group also showed improved survival, and the techniques can be taught for use in the community.4 Although most British groups do not operate such a structured programme, they largely practise the same principle of allowing patients to discuss their problems in an atmosphere of unconditional acceptance.

There are now more than 500 self help groups for cancer, which can be contacted through Cancerlink, a charity based in London. Cancerlink has prepared good practice guidelines, which aim to improve professionals' confidence in the services.

Cunningham and Edmonds conducted an extensive literature review and concluded that most patients could gain an improved quality of life from attending a self help group.2 A survey among the general public was recently conducted by Market and Opinion Research International.5 In answer to the question “Which organisation if any are you aware of that can help or support people with cancer?” only 9% of respondents mentioned self help groups; most named organisations that cannot be accessed directly by the public.

As only 9% of the public are aware of self help groups and oncologists do not routinely recommend such groups to patients, more public education is required to enable more patients to benefit.