Evaluation of a support workshop for partners of breast cancer patients: a pilot study

Abstract

In a pilot study, we undertook to assess the efficacy of a support workshop for partners of women with early stage breast cancer. Thirteen male participants attended a two hour discussion group facilitated by a male facilitator. Open-ended and close-ended items specifically designed for this study were utilised to investigate the effects of attending the support workshop. The mean satisfaction scores indicate that partners found attending the workshop very useful. It was found to reduce their sense of isolation and improved perceived support, future outlook, ability to support their partners and families and their understanding of the emotional impact of breast cancer on partners. While a relatively large number of partners indicated a preference for an ongoing group, fewer men indicated planning to keep in contact with others in the group. Despite having several limitations including small sample size, lack of a control group and preworkshop assessment, the results indicate that partners believe it is important to have support groups available for them. This pilot trial has provided preliminary evidence that support groups for partners of women with early stage breast cancer are feasible and effective in meeting partners' self- reported support needs in the Australian setting. (author abstract)