Randomized trial of a community‐based, culturally tailored intervention: High engagement among Latina breast cancer survivors

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Abstract
Background: A preliminary randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the impact of a culturally tailored, group‐based intervention for Latina breast cancer survivors (BCSs) and their caregivers on survivors’ quality of life (QOL) compared to usual care services provided by community‐based organizations.Methods: This study randomized 136 Latina BCSs and 136 caregivers in Washington, DC; New York, New York; and San Jose, California to an eight‐session culturally tailored coping and communication intervention (n = 70 dyads) or usual care support services via community‐based organizations (n = 66 dyads). QOL domains (anxiety, depression, fatigue, physical functioning, and social functioning) were measured at baseline, immediately post‐intervention, and 6 months post‐intervention.Results: Among the 70 dyads in the intervention, 71.4% (n = 50) attended five or more of the eight sessions, which demonstrated high engagement; 82% of participants were retained at 6 months. Results indicated clinically significant improvements in Latina BCSs’ reports of anxiety and fatigue at 6 months postintervention compared to BCSs in usual care; however, after adjustment for multiple comparisons, results were not statistically significant.Conclusions: A culturally tailored, group‐based intervention for Latina BCSs and their caregivers led to clinically relevant but not statistically significant improvements in survivors’ anxiety and fatigue compared to usual services provided by community‐based organizations. Interventions conducted in partnership with community‐based organizations yield high engagement and retention; these types of collaborative approaches to psychosocial services have the potential to positively affect Latina BCSs’ QOL.
Funding Information
  • Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (AD‐12‐11‐5365)
  • National Cancer Institute (T32CA261787, P30CA51008)

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