Exploring the Views of participants of the Support Group Programme provided by the Tafaul Foundation in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Cancer is a major life-threatening disease that affects both physical and psychological health. However, when diagnosed early enough, cancer can be treated with medication and medical procedures. Psychological issues can be addressed by specialised support sessions, family support and/or peer support groups, which can significantly improve quality of life for cancer patients, aid recovery, reduce psychological problems and promote healthy behaviours (Lieberman & Goldstein, 2006). As there are relatively few cancer support groups in Saudi Arabia and other Arabic countries, there is limited research on this subject.

Aim and methods: The aim was to explore the views of those participants attending the Teatime support group in the Tafaul Foundation, by conducting a qualitative study using two online focus groups comprising of 8 women aged 18 or over. Ethics approval was obtained from the ethics committee in Swansea University. Data were analysed by thematic analysis.

Findings and Discussion: Five themes were identified as instrumental in improving the psychological health of participants, with family, friends and peer support playing a crucial role. However, attendance at the group was often affected by issues of transportation and scheduling of the groups. The social stigma of the disease also had a significant impact on the cancer survivor.

Implications for public health and health promotion: The socio-ecological model (McLeroy et al., 1988) was used to help understand the factors that affected participant’ views about Teatime. The mass communication model was also used to explore the role of mass media in promoting cancer support groups.

Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of these groups in supporting cancer patients. It might be the first study of its kind in Saudi Arabia and one of only a handful in the Middle East generally. Any future studies might consider using larger a sample size and face-to-face focus groups.