New free training: addressing fear of cancer recurrence
Fear of cancer recurrence refers to worries or concerns that cancer may return or progress. It is the most commonly reported unmet supportive care need among people living with and beyond cancer, with research cited in the program suggesting almost two-thirds of cancer survivors experience moderate-to-high levels of fear.
For some people, these concerns can affect mental health, quality of life, daily functioning and use of healthcare services. Despite this, fear of recurrence is not always routinely identified or addressed in cancer care.
Developed by a multidisciplinary team from The Daffodil Centre, McGrath Foundation, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Androgogic, the new 30-minute module has been designed to help translate Australia’s Fear of Cancer Recurrence Clinical Pathway into everyday clinical practice.
For cancer nurses, importantly, this is not about becoming a specialist psychological practitioner. The module focuses on recognising concerns, opening the conversation, assessing the level of need and connecting people with appropriate support. Culturally diverse case studies, videos, interactive activities and practical implementation tools help demonstrate how this can be incorporated into routine care.
Evaluation with Australian oncology health professionals found improvements in participants’ knowledge, confidence and perceived ability to provide pathway-aligned care, as well as fewer perceived barriers to screening, assessment and referral following the training.
Learning objectives
Based on the course description and clinical pathway, the module supports learners to:
- recognise fear of cancer recurrence and understand its potential impact;
- initiate conversations about fear of recurrence with people affected by cancer;
- assess the severity of fear of recurrence and identify the level of support required;
- understand and apply the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Clinical Pathway and stepped-care approach; and
- connect people affected by cancer with appropriate information, support, referral pathways and services.
