title: Psychological responses to cancer: a case for cancer support groups.
abstract: This study investigates the responses of patients and their carers to the diagnosis of cancer. The reporting of stress by patients, using linear analogue scales, and their psychological distress, as measured by the General Health Questionnaire, indicated benefits for members of a community-based cancer support group. The responses of carers revealed that the impact of the diagnosis was as great on them as on patients. Various mediators were considered and age was found to significantly influence the reporting of stress. The limitations and implications of the findings are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Daw House Hospice.
authors.forename: R W
authors.initials: RW
authors.lastname: Hunt
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Bond
authors.forename: G D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Pater
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006784:Hospitals, Teaching; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012657:Self-Help Groups; D013021:South Australia; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires