Work

Group‐Based Support Interventions for Adolescents and Young Adults With Lymphoma: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Year: 2025

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Lymphomas are one of the primary cancers that affect adolescents and young adults (AYAs). We examined the feasibility of two group-based interventions-one meditation-based and one education-based-for AYAs with lymphoma. We also explored their potential benefits for reducing psychological distress and cancer-related symptom burden. METHODS: Patients aged 18-39 years with lymphoma undergoing chemotherapy were randomized to either the meditation or psychoeducation intervention. Both received 5 weekly sessions (60 min each) delivered in a group setting via videoconferencing. Participants were assessed at baseline (T1), 6 weeks (T2), and 12 weeks (T3). RESULTS: (4) = 0.65). Assessment completion rates in the meditation intervention were 75% at T2 and 64% at T3; in the psychoeducation intervention, rates were 78% at both time points. From T1 to T3, the psychoeducation intervention showed significant improvements in cancer-related symptom severity (mean difference = 0.75, p = 0.041) and interference (mean difference = 1.07, p = 0.028). CONCLUSIONS: Videoconference-delivered, group-based supportive care for AYAs with lymphoma during active cancer treatment appears feasible and may help reduce symptom burden or prevent further worsening of quality of life. Virtual delivery enhances accessibility and scalability across diverse clinical settings. Strategies to improve adherence and retention are needed to optimize engagement in this population. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT04270266.

Source: Psycho-Oncology

DOI: 10.1002/pon.70343