Aims: We aimed to systematically review research on the impact of peer support interventions designed to enhance psychosocial functioning among cancer survivors. We also sought to identify key components necessary for developing a support intervention specifically tailored for patients with rare cancers living in rural, regional, or remote areas.
Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library to identify papers examining peer support interventions. Inclusion criteria targeted studies involving: i) rare cancer patients or ii) patients residing in rural, regional, or remote locations, or iii) interventions delivered online or via telehealth. After screening, data were extracted regarding study characteristics, intervention components, and their impact on psychosocial functioning. A quality assessment of included studies was performed, and findings were synthesised narratively.
Results: Twenty-three unique studies were included in the review, predominantly focusing on peer support for middle-aged women with breast cancer. The interventions identified were primarily online or telephone-based and targeted various psychosocial outcomes including depression, anxiety, distress, quality of life and coping. Significant improvements were observed in coping abilities and reductions in loneliness. The most effective interventions utilised online, group formats facilitated by healthcare professionals. However, there was a notable lack of data specifically addressing rare cancers and the unique challenges faced by rural populations.
Conclusions: There is a scarcity of research on peer support interventions for individuals diagnosed with rare cancers living in rural, regional, or remote areas. Although the evidence demonstrates a mixed impact on different measures of psychosocial functioning, promising elements of peer support might be adapted for rare cancer patients in these settings. The limited findings underscore the need for further research to develop targeted interventions. For oncologists, findings highlight the importance of considering peer support as a viable component of comprehensive care, particularly for patients in underserved areas.