ABSTRACT
Background: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is a common burden for cancer patients. However, it is often challenging to find outpatient psychological support. Therefore, for the following study, an outpatient group adapted from Waadt et al.'s manual (2011)1 was developed to focus on specific needs of oncological patients experiencing FCR. Method(s): The group program consisted of 8 treatment sessions in smallsized closed groups with 6-8 patients and 2 therapists. The content was standardized and included behavioral strategies (psychoeducation, cognitive exposure, coping strategies and resources) as well as mindfulness. The intervention was evaluated by comparing FCR, anxiety and depression before and after the group using Wilcoxon-signed-rank-tests. Result(s): In total, N = 33 patients with varying oncological diagnoses participated in the group intervention. Out of these, 26 were female (76.5 %) and 7 were male (20.6 %). The mean age was 57.6 years, ranging from 42 to 77 years. A significant decrease in depression (z =-3.09, p = .002, n = 18), anxiety (z =-3.00, p = .003, n = 19) and FCR (z =-2.47, p = .013, n = 13) was found after finishing the group intervention. Moreover, our patients rated the techniques covered in the intervention as helpful for dealing with FCR and feasible in everyday life. Discussion(s): Despite limitations in implementation and recruitment of patients due to the Corona pandemic, results show positive changes in the group intervention with respect to FCR, anxiety, and depression. Conclusion(s): The results indicate that a structured group therapy program with a focus on FCR for oncological patients can be an effective and feasible intervention improving outpatient psychooncological care.