Dolbeault, S., Cayrou, S., Bredart, A., Viala, A.L., Desclaux, B., Saltel, P., . . . Dickes, P. (2009). The effectiveness of a psycho-educational group after early-stage breast cancer treatment: Results of a randomized French study. Psycho-Oncology, 18, 647–656.

To determine effect of a cognitive behavioral type of intervention on anxiety

The intervention involved eight weeks of group-based cognitive behavioral training that included cognitive restructuring techniques, relaxation, peer exchange, communication, and general medical information.

• The final sample was comprised of 167 French women with early-stage breast cancer.
• Mean age in the treatment group was 54.5 +/- 9.3; mean age in the control group was 51.6 +/- 9.6.

• Multisite
• Outpatient setting
• France

• Transition phase after initial treatment
• Late effects and survivorship

A randomized controlled trial design was used.

• Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)
• Profile of Mood States (POMS)
• Mental Adjustment to Cancer (MAC) Scale
• EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire

The treatment group showed a greater reduction in anxiety over time compared to the control group (p = 0.001).

Structured psychoeducational group interventions in patients with early-stage breast cancer in remission can have a positive effect on emotional states, especially in reducing anxiety.

• The study had no attentional control.
• Age and chemotherapy treatment were found to be significant confounding variables, and there were significant differences in the control and intervention groups on these variables.
• The intervention was provided in a group setting, making it difficult to determine how much of the effect seen was due to the specific structured intervention as opposed to the peer support aspects of the intervention.

The practicality of conducting two-hour group sessions weekly for eight weeks may be questionable. Furthermore, the study was funded and the intervention was provided free of charge—this may not be routinely possible.