Project Description

Principal Investigator: Stinson, J
Co-Investigator: Barrera, M, Greenberg, M, Gupta, A, Jibb, L.
Funded by: Pediatric Oncology Group of Ontario; 2012-2013

Background: Within the paediatric cancer population, adolescents are one group who may be especially vulnerable to the impacts of a cancer diagnosis and its treatment. The adolescent period is a time fraught with major developmental and lifestyle changes. These adolescents may experience social isolation from peers, limited social opportunities to meet potential romantic partners and a lack of privacy for sexual expression and unsupervised time with peers. However, little is know about adolescents’ perceptions of body image, sexuality and dating relationship issues related to having cancer.

Objective: To develop and evaluate an online program to help adolescents with cancer to better understand and manage body image, sexuality and dating relationship issues related to cancer treatment.

Design: A qualitative study design will be used with a sample size of 40 adolescents and their parents/primary caregivers (40 parents/primary caregivers).

Procedure: Participants will be recruited from hematology/oncology inpatient and outpatient clinics. Participants will participate in individual interviews to explore the perceptions of adolescents with cancer regarding: (a) the impact of cancer treatment on their body image, sexuality and dating relationships; (b) their information needs around these areas; and (c) whether a web-based program would be a good way to meet these needs.

Status: Recruitment is currently taking place at The Hospital for Sick Children.