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  • 1. Baba, Kerstin
    et al.
    Fransson, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Use of a modified ESAS in cancer patients: a pilot study of patient and staff experiences2007In: International Journal of Palliative Nursing, ISSN 1357-6321, E-ISSN 2052-286X, Vol. 13, no 12, p. 610-616Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Aim: To evaluate the feasibility of a modified Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) for monitoring symptoms in oncological palliative care.

    Methods: A modified ESAS was delivered daily to 28 patients with advanced cancer. A questionnaire to discover staff members’ opinions on the ESAS was delivered at the end of the study. Structured interviews were used to examine patients’ opinions on the ESAS.

    Results: The mean total ESAS score was 28.9 on inclusion day and 25.8 on Day 3 (p=0.531). Eleven of 21 of the staff considered the ESAS to be a ‘good’ or ‘very good’ way to obtain information about patients’ symptoms. Seventeen of 24 patients who participated in the interview felt that ESAS was easy to fill in, and that there were no missing questions.

    Conclusion: The patients felt that the modified ESAS contained relevant symptoms, and that the questionnaires were easy to fill in. The staff considered the modified ESAS to be a useful instrument for obtaining information about patients’ symptom distress. The modified ESAS is a good instrument for use as part of the daily clinical routine, as well as for monitoring symptoms in palliative oncological care.

  • 2. Brandefors, Lena
    et al.
    Kimby, Eva
    Lundqvist, Kristina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Melin, Beatrice
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Familial Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia and relation to immune defects, autoimmune diseases, and haematological malignancies: a population-based study from northern Sweden2016In: Acta Oncologica, ISSN 0284-186X, E-ISSN 1651-226X, Vol. 55, no 1, p. 91-98Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) is a rare lymphoprolipherative disorder with geographic and ethnic disparities in incidence. The cause of WM remains mostly unknown although a role for genetic, immune-related, and environmental factors has been suggested. Most cases of WM are sporadic although familial cases occur. Aim: This study estimated the incidence of WM in northern Sweden and identified and described patients with familial WM in this area. Patients and methods: The Swedish and Northern Lymphoma Registry, the Swedish Cancer Registry (1997-2011), and medical records were used to identify patients with WM in two counties (Norrbotten and Västerbotten) in northern Sweden and to calculate the overall age-adjusted incidence (2000-2012). We identified 12 families with a family history of WM, IgM monoclonal gammophathy (MGUS), and/or multiple myeloma (MM). Results: In Norrbotten and Västerbotten, the age-adjusted incidence of WM/LPL is 1.75 and 1.48 per 100 000 persons per year, respectively (2000-2012), rates that are higher than the overall incidence of WM/LPL in Sweden (1.05 per 100 000 persons per year; 2000-2012). Autoimmune diseases and other haematological malignancies in the medical history (their own or in relatives) were reported in 9/12 and 5/12 families, respectively. A high proportion of abnormal serum protein electrophoresis was found in the relatives; 12/56 (21%) had a MGUS and 13/56 (25%) showed abnormalities in the immunoglobulin levels (i.e. subnormal levels and poly/oligoclonality). Conclusion: The incidence of WM in Norrbotten and Västerbotten counties was higher than expected. We found a strong correlation between autoimmune/inflammatory diseases, other haematological malignancies, and familial WM and a high frequency of serum immunoglobulin abnormalities in the relatives of the WM patients, findings that strengthen the hypothesis that the aetiology of WM depends on both immune-related and genetic factors.

  • 3.
    Brandefors, Lena
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology. Sunderby Research Unit.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology. Sunderby Research Unit.
    Preuss, Klaus-Dieter
    Fadle, Natalie
    Pfreundschuh, Michael
    Kimby, Eva
    Incidence and inheritance of hyperphosphorylated paratarg-7 in patients with Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia in Sweden2019In: Acta Oncologica, ISSN 0284-186X, E-ISSN 1651-226X, Vol. 58, no 6, p. 824-827Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 4. Brandefors, Lena
    et al.
    Melin, Beatrice S.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Lundqvist, Kristina
    Kimby, Eva
    Prognostic factors and primary treatment for Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia: a Swedish Lymphoma Registry study2018In: British Journal of Haematology, ISSN 0007-1048, E-ISSN 1365-2141, Vol. 183, no 4, p. 564-577Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    We present a nationwide prospective Swedish registry-based study of Waldenstrom macroglobulinaemia (WM), that focuses on incidence and survival in relation to clinical prognostic factors and primary systemic therapies. A total of 1511 patients with WM and lymphoplasmocytic lymphoma (LPL) were registered in the Swedish Lymphoma Registry (SLR) between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2014. The age-adjusted incidence of WM/LPL was 11.5 per million persons per year, three times higher than the reported incidence worldwide. Medical records were retrieved for 1135 patients (75%). A retrospective review showed that 981 (86.1%) of these patients fulfilled the World Health Organization diagnostic criteria for WM and these patients were analysed further. The overall survival (OS) improved between two periods - 2000-2006 and 2007-2014 - with a five-year OS of 61% and 70%, respectively. Significant prognostic factors for OS, evaluated at the time of diagnosis, were age, elevated lactate dehydrogenase level and haemoglobin <= 115 g/l for patients receiving therapy 0-3 months after diagnosis, and age, poor performance status, haemoglobin <= 115 g/l, and female sex in "watch and wait" patients (multivariable analysis). The level of the IgM monoclonal immunoglobulin had no significant prognostic value. Rituximab included in first-line therapy was associated with improved survival.

  • 5.
    Egberg Thyme, Karin
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Psychiatry.
    Sundin, Eva C.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Wiberg, Britt
    Division of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottinham, United Kingdom.
    Öster, Inger
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Åström, Sture
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Individual brief art therapy can be helpful for women with breast cancer: A randomized controlled clinical study2009In: Palliative & Supportive Care, ISSN 1478-9515, E-ISSN 1478-9523, Vol. 7, no 1, p. 87-95Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: Recent research shows that almost every second woman with breast cancer is depressed or has anxiety; the risk for younger women is even higher. Moreover, research shows that women are at risk for developing depression, also a threat for women with breast cancer. The aim of this randomized controlled clinical trial was to study the outcome of five sessions of art therapy given at a 5-week period of postoperative radiotherapy.

    Methods: The participants were between 37 and 69 years old; six participants in each group were below 50 years of age. Half of the participants (n = 20) received art therapy and the other half (n = 21) were assigned to a control group. At the first measurement, at least 17% (n = 7) of the participants medicated with antidepressants. Data were collected before and after art therapy and at a 4-month follow-up using self-rating scales that measure self-image (the Structural Analysis of Social Behaviour) and psychiatric symptoms (the Symptom Check List–90).

    Results: At follow-up, significant lower ratings of depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms and less general symptoms were reported for the art therapy group compared to the control group. The regression analysis showed that art therapy relates to lower ratings of depression, anxiety, and general symptoms; chemotherapeutic treatment predicts lower depressive symptoms; in contrast to axilliary surgery and hormonal treatment as well as being a parent predicts higher ratings of anxiety and general symptoms.

    Significance of results: The conclusion suggests that art therapy has a long-term effect on the crisis following the breast cancer and its consequences.

  • 6.
    Egberg Thyme, Karin
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Psychiatry.
    Tavelin, Björn
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Öster, Inger
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Wiberg, Britt
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Art therapy and self-image: A 5-year follow-up art therapy RCT study of women diagnosed with breast cancer2022In: Palliative & Supportive Care, ISSN 1478-9515, E-ISSN 1478-9523, Vol. 20, no 4, p. 482-490Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: This follow-up study on perceived self-image and psychophysical distress/psychic symptoms was based on a ranomized contolled study of art therapy on women with breast cancer.

    Method: The aim was to examine the long-term effects of time-limited art therapy using the instruments of Structural Analysis of Social Behavior (SASB) and Symptom Check List-90 (SCL-90).

    Results: Three attachment clusters of the SASB showed significant changes post therapy: Autonomous self (cluster 1), Accepting self (cluster 2), and Loving self (cluster 3). Clusters 2 and 3 continued to change in favor of the intervention group at the 5-year follow-up. There were no significant differences in the SCL-90 results between the intervention group and the control group in the follow-up study.

    Significance of results: The art therapy intervention was both therapeutic and psycho-educative. The conclusion of this study is that approaching emotions through time-limited art therapy seems to have a long-lasting effect on the attachment behavioral system shown in the SASB model post intervention, and this effect remained 5 years later.

  • 7.
    Emilsson, Sofia
    et al.
    Mellannorrlands Hosp AB, Sundsvall, Sweden.
    Svensk, Ann-Christine
    Olsson, Karolina
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Öster, Inger
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Experiences from having breast cancer and being part of a support group: Notes written in diaries by women during radiotherapy2012In: Palliative & Supportive Care, ISSN 1478-9515, E-ISSN 1478-9523, Vol. 10, no 2, p. 99-105Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective:The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of breast cancer patients participating in a support group.

    Method:This study explores 28 stories of women with breast cancer as expressed through written diaries. Diaries were written during a 5-week period in parallel with radiotherapy and participation in a support group in a hospital. Answers to six open-ended evaluative questions concerning the support group were included in the majority of the written diaries. A qualitative content analysis was used to identify themes.

    Results:Three themes were constructed during the analysis: "positive group development." "Inhibited group development." and "the individual living with the disease." Hopes and fears for the future in regards to illness and getting better, the value of family and friends, and feelings related to daily life with breast cancer such as fatigue and changes in body image were also expressed in the diaries.

    Significance of results:The findings suggest that the women with breast cancer found it valuable to be able to share experiences with other women in a similar situation in the context of a support group. Being part of such a group provided a space and an opportunity for reflection.

  • 8.
    Emilsson, Sofia
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Svensk, Ann-Christine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Tavelin, Björn
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Support group participation during the post-operative radiotherapy period increases levels of coping resources among women with breast cancer.2012In: European Journal of Cancer Care, ISSN 0961-5423, E-ISSN 1365-2354, Vol. 21, no 5, p. 591-598Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Support group participation during the post-operative radiotherapy period increases levels of coping resources among women with breast cancer Being diagnosed with breast cancer is a traumatic experience that can elevate levels of distress and cause depletion of coping resources in many of the disease's victims. This non-randomised case-control study among breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy indicates that participation in a support group that focuses on communication and mutual sharing between its member's has positive effects and increases levels of coping resources assessed with the Coping Resources Inventory (CRI). Results of the CRI showed a significant difference between the study group and control group in the social domain at the second occasion of measurement (P= 0.007) and in the emotional domain at the third occasion (P= 0.028). Within the study group, over time, increased levels of coping resources reached significant levels concerning the emotional domain at the second occasion (P= 0.025). Conversely, coping resources were decreased in the same domain within the control group over time, at the third occasion (P= 0.053). Additionally, anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, showing no difference between the groups. This study shows that participation in a support group during post-operative radiotherapy can be socially and emotionally strengthening because of the opportunity for the patients to mutually share experiences.

  • 9. Engvall, Gunn
    et al.
    Lindh, Viveca
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Mullaney, Tara
    Nyholm, Tufve
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Ångström-Brännström, Charlotte
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Children's experiences and responses towards an intervention for psychological preparation for radiotherapy2018In: Radiation Oncology, ISSN 1748-717X, E-ISSN 1748-717X, Vol. 13, article id 9Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Children can experience distress when undergoing radiotherapy as a reaction to being scared of and unfamiliar with the procedure. The aim was to evaluate children's experiences and responses towards an intervention for psychological preparation for radiotherapy.

    Methods: A case control design with qualitative content analysis of semi-structured interviews and statistical analysis of anxiety ratings were used for evaluating a strategy for psychological preparation and distraction. Fifty-seven children aged 2 to 18 years and their parents participated - 30 children in the baseline group and 27 in the intervention group. Child interviews were performed and the child and their parents rated the child's anxiety.

    Results: The intervention was most appropriate for the younger children, who enjoyed the digital story, the stuffed animal and training with their parents. There were some technical problems and the digital story was not detailed enough to fit exactly with various cancer diagnoses. Children described suggestions for improvement of the intervention. The ratings of the child's anxiety during radiation treatment showed no differences between the baseline group and the intervention group.

    Conclusions: The children of all the age groups experienced their interventions as positive. The strength of the intervention was that it encouraged interaction within the family and provided an opportunity for siblings and peers to take part in what the child was going through. Future research on children's experiences to interventions should be encouraged. The intervention and the technical solutions could improve by further development.

    Trial registration: The study design was structured as an un-matched case-control study, baseline group vs. intervention group. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02993978 , Protocol Record 2012-113-31 M. Retrospectively registered - 21 November 2016.

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  • 10. Engvall, Gunn
    et al.
    Ångström-Brännström, Charlotte
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Mullaney, Tara
    Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Umeå Institute of Design.
    Nilsson, Kristina
    Wickart-Johansson, Gun
    Svärd, Anna-Maja
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Nyholm, Tufve
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Lindh, Viveca
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    It Is Tough and Tiring but It Works - Children's Experiences of Undergoing Radiotherapy2016In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 11, no 4, article id e0153029Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Approximately 300 children ages 0 to 18 are diagnosed with cancer in Sweden every year, and 80 to 90 of them undergo radiotherapy treatment. The aim was to describe children's experiences of preparing for and undergoing radiotherapy, and furthermore to describe children's suggestions for improvement. Thirteen children between the ages of 5 and 15 with various cancer diagnoses were interviewed. Data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The findings revealed five categories: positive and negative experiences with hospital stays and practical arrangements; age-appropriate information, communication, and guidance to various degrees; struggle with emotions; use of distraction and other suitable coping strategies; and children's suggestions for improvement during radiotherapy. An overarching theme emerged: "It is tough and tiring but it works". Some key areas were: explanatory visits, the need for information and communication, being afraid, discomfort and suffering, the need for media distraction, dealing with emotions, and the need for support. A systematic, family-centered preparation program could possible help families prepare and individualized distraction during radiotherapy could contribute to reducing distress. Further studies with interventions could clarify successful programs.

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  • 11.
    Grönlund, Christer
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Centre for Biomedical Engineering and Physics (CMTF). Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Östlund, Nils
    Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Centre for Biomedical Engineering and Physics (CMTF). Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Bergström, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Karlsson, Stefan J
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Spatio-temporal processing of surface EMG signals from the sternocleidomastoideus muscle to assess effects of radiotherapy on motor unit conduction velocity and firing rate: a pilot study2008In: Biomedical Signal Processing and Control, ISSN 1746-8094, Vol. 3, no 2, p. 163-168Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Radiation therapy causes both muscle and nerve tissue damage. However, the evolution and mechanisms of these damages are not fully understood. Information on the state of active muscle fibres and motoneurons can be obtained by measuring sEMG signals and calculating the conduction velocity (CV) and firing rate of individual motor units, respectively. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate if the multi-channel surface EMG (sEMG) technique could be applied to the sternocleidomastoideus muscle (SCM) of radiotherapy patients, and to assess if the CV and firing rate are altered as a consequence of the radiation.

    Surface EMG signals were recorded from the radiated and healthy SCM muscles of 10 subjects, while subjects performed isometric rotation of the head. CV and firing rate were calculated using two recently proposed methods based on spatio-temporal processing of the sEMG signals. The multi-channel sEMG technique was successfully applied to the SCM muscle and CV and firing rates were obtained. The measurements were fast and simple and comfortable for the patients. Sufficient data quality was obtained from both sides of seven and four subjects for the CV and firing rate analysis, respectively. No differences in CV or firing rate were found between the radiated and non-radiated sides (p = 0.13 and p = 0.20, respectively). Firing rate and CV were also obtained from a myokymic discharge pattern. It was found that the CV decreased significantly (p = 0.01) during the bursts.

  • 12. Kristensen, Ingrid
    et al.
    Agrup, Mans
    Bergström, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Engellau, Jacob
    Haugen, Hedda
    Martinsson, Ulla
    Nilsson, Kristina
    Taheri-Kadkhoda, Zahra
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Nilsson, Per
    Assessment of volume segmentation in radiotherapy of adolescents: a treatment planning study by the Swedish Workgroup for Paediatric Radiotherapy2014In: Acta Oncologica, ISSN 0284-186X, E-ISSN 1651-226X, Vol. 53, no 1, p. 126-133Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and purpose. The variability in target delineation for similar cases between centres treating paediatric and adolescent patients, and the apparent differences in interpretation of radiotherapy guidelines in the treatment protocols encouraged us to perform a dummy-run study as a part of our quality assurance work. The aim was to identify and quantify differences in the segmentation of target volumes and organs at risk (OARs) and to analyse the treatment plans and dose distributions. Materials and methods. Four patient cases were selected: Wilm's tumour, Hodgkin's disease, rhabdomyosarcoma of the prostate and chordoma of the skull base. The five participating centres received the same patient-related material. They introduced the cases in their treatment planning system, delineated target volumes and OARs and created treatment plans. Dose-volume histograms were retrieved for relevant structures and volumes and dose metrics were derived and compared, e. g. target volumes and their concordance, dose homogeneity index (HI), treated and irradiated volumes, remaining volume at risk and relevant V x and D x values. Results. We found significant differences in target segmentation in the majority of the cases. The planning target volumes (PTVs) varied two-to four-fold and conformity indices were in the range of 0.3-0.6. This resulted in large variations in dose distributions to OARs as well as in treated and irradiated volumes even though the treatment plans showed good conformity to the PTVs. Potential reasons for the differences in target delineation were analysed. Conclusion. Considerations of the growing child and difficulties in interpretation of the radiotherapy information in the treatment protocols were identified as reasons for the variation. As a result, clarified translated detailed radiotherapy guidelines for paediatric/adolescent patients have been recognised as a way to reduce this variation.

  • 13. Kristensen, Ingrid
    et al.
    Johansson, Mats
    Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Departement of Computing Science.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Radiation Sciences, Oncology. Onkologi.
    Nilsson, Per
    Karlsson, Mikael
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics. Radiofysik.
    Barnradioterapi på distans2006In: Läkartidningen, Vol. 103, no 15-16, p. 1188-1190Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 14. Kristensen, Ingrid
    et al.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Nilsson, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Agrup, Måns
    Bergström, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Björk-Eriksson, Thomas
    Engellau, Jacob
    Hjelm-Skog, Anna-Lena
    Malmer, Beatrice
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Martinsson, Ulla
    Karlsson, Mikael
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Telemedicine as a tool for sharing competence in paediatric radiotherapy: implementation and initial experiences from a Swedish project.2009In: Acta oncologica (Stockholm, Sweden), ISSN 1651-226X, Vol. 48, no 1, p. 146-52Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 15.
    Li, Aihong
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical chemistry.
    Rosenquist, R
    Forestier, Erik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Medical and Clinical Genetics.
    Holmberg, D
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Löfvenberg, E
    Roos, Göran
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Pathology.
    Clonal rearrangements in childhood and adult precursor B acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a comparative polymerase chain reaction study using multiple sets of primers.1999In: European Journal of Haematology, ISSN 0902-4441, E-ISSN 1600-0609, Vol. 63, no 4, p. 211-8Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Ig heavy chain (IgH) and T-cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangements were investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of diagnostic tumour samples from 91 patients (57 children and 34 adults, with cut-off at age 16) with precursor B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Using primers directed to the framework regions (FR) 1, 2 and 3 of the IgH gene, clonal IgH rearrangements were observed in 82, 58 and 58%, respectively, whereas clonality was presented in 45 and 27% using primers hybridising to the TCR delta and gamma genes. A combination of all five primer sets used resulted in 96% positive cases (children 100%, adults 88%). The frequency of clonal IgH rearrangements correlated to patient age with a significantly lower fraction of positive cases in the adult group. The concomitant usage of more than one V(H) family gene was similar for childhood and adult ALL, and an over-representation of V(H)6 rearrangements was found in childhood ALL. Twenty-five out of 91 cases (27%) displayed an oligoclonal pattern for either IgH or TCR gene rearrangements (children 37%, adults 12%). A comparative analysis of samples from different compartments was performed in 23 patients, and differences between two or three compartments were observed in seven cases. Unexpectedly large, clonally appearing PCR products of 540-715 bp were found in three leukemias and sequence analysis verified their clonal nature. In summary, using multiple sets of primers clonal rearrangements of IgH and TCR genes can be detected in a very high frequency, including previously neglected large size PCR products. A common heterogeneity was demonstrated in different compartments reflecting ongoing clonal evolution, which can make detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) in ALL troublesome. Therefore, we suggest that a minimum of three targets should be used to minimise false-negative results.

  • 16.
    Li, Aihong
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical chemistry.
    Rosenquist, R
    Forestier, Erik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Medical and Clinical Genetics.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Roos, Göran
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Pathology.
    Detailed clonality analysis of relapsing precursor B acute lymphoblastic leukemia: implications for minimal residual disease detection.2001In: Leukemia research: a Forum for Studies on Leukemia and Normal Hemopoiesis, ISSN 0145-2126, E-ISSN 1873-5835, Vol. 25, no 12, p. 1033-45Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Genetic instability has important implications for detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) when the target is a clonal genetic marker revealed at diagnosis. A successful MRD detection approach requires a stable marker and for lymphoid leukemias clonal rearrangements of immunoglobulin (Ig) and T cell receptor (TCR) genes are commonly used. In the present study, Ig heavy chain (IgH) and TCR (gamma and delta) genes were studied in 18 consecutive, relapsing precursor-B ALL patients. At least one clonal rearrangement was found in all cases at presentation (IgH 94%, TCRgamma 39% and TCRdelta 28%). An altered rearrangement pattern between diagnosis and relapse was demonstrated in 14 patients (78%). At least one stable molecular target was found in 13 out of 18 cases (72%). Clonal differences between diagnostic and relapse samples were explained by: (1) loss of original rearrangements; (2) V(H) to DJ(H) joining; (3) V(H) gene replacement; (4) appearance of new rearrangements. In two cases with apparently new IgH gene rearrangements at relapse extended sequencing of the diagnostic samples revealed minor clonal rearrangements identical to the relapse clones. Interestingly, one patient displayed instability on both the IgH and TCR gene loci, whereas a stable Igkappa rearrangement was found at presentation and relapse. These data show that clonal diversity is common in precursor-B ALL and strongly suggest that MRD detection should include multiple gene targets to minimize false-negative samples. Even so, five of our 18 relapse cases (28%) lacked stable clonal markers and should have been unsuitable for MRD detection.

  • 17.
    Lindh, Viveca
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Engvall, Gunn
    Ångström-Brännström, Charlotte
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Nilsson, Kristina
    Wickart-Johansson, Gun
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Children's voices on experiencing radiotherapy2016In: Oncology Nursing Forum, ISSN 0190-535X, E-ISSN 1538-0688, Vol. 43, no 2, p. 134-134Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 18. Ljungman, Gustaf
    et al.
    Jakobson, Åke
    Behrendtz, Mikael
    Ek, Torben
    Friberg, Lars-Göran
    Hjalmars, Ulf
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Paediatrics.
    Hjorth, Lars
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Pal, Niklas
    Sandstedt, Bengt
    Österlundh, Gustaf
    Gustafsson, Göran
    Incidence and survival analyses in children with solid tumours diagnosed in Sweden between 1983 and 20072011In: Acta Paediatrica, ISSN 0803-5253, E-ISSN 1651-2227, Vol. 100, no 5, p. 750-757Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Aim:  Solid tumours constitute 40% of childhood malignancies. The Swedish Childhood Cancer Registry is population based and includes all children with cancer reported from the six paediatric oncology centres in Sweden. The aim was to investigate incidence and survival.

    Methods:  We used the new WHO ICCC-3 for reclassification of the patients. Incidence and survival analyses were performed in the study population.

    Results:  Two thousand four hundred and eighty-seven children (<15 years) were diagnosed with solid tumours in Sweden between 1983 and 2007. The distribution of diagnoses was similar to that reported in other studies. The annual incidence was 65.3 per million children. The survival rates at 10 years of follow-up have improved significantly when comparing the two time periods, 1983-1995 and 1995-2007 (76 vs. 82%; p < 0.01).

    Conclusions:  The mean annual incidence of solid tumours in children was 65.3/million and has been stable during the study period. Survival rates for solid tumours at 5, 10 and 20 years follow-up were 80, 79 and 76%, respectively.

  • 19. Lütgendorf-Caucig, C
    et al.
    Fotina, Irina
    Gallop-Evans, E
    Claude, L
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Pelz, T
    Knäusl, B
    Georg, D
    Pötter, R
    Dieckmann, K
    Multicenter evaluation of different target volume delineation concepts in pediatric Hodgkin's lymphoma: a case study2012In: Strahlentherapie und Onkologie (Print), ISSN 0179-7158, E-ISSN 1439-099X, Vol. 188, no 11, p. 1025-1030Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: In pediatric Hodgkin's lymphoma (PHL) improvements in imaging and multiagent chemotherapy have allowed for a reduction in target volume. The involved-node (IN) concept is being tested in several treatment regimens for adult Hodgkin's lymphoma. So far there is no consensus on the definition of the IN. To improve the reproducibility of the IN, we tested a new involved-node-level (INL) concept, using defined anatomical boundaries as basis for target delineation. The aim was to evaluate the feasibility of IN and INL concepts for PHL in terms of interobserver variability. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The INL concept was defined for the neck and mediastinum by the PHL Radiotherapy Group based on accepted concepts for solid tumors. Seven radiation oncologists from six European centers contoured neck and mediastinal clinical target volumes (CTVs) of 2 patients according to the IN and the new INL concepts. The median CTVs, coefficient of variation (COV), and general conformity index (CI) were assessed. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for reliability of delineations was calculated. RESULTS: All observers agreed that INL is a feasible and practicable delineation concept resulting in stronger interobserver concordance than the IN (mediastinum CI(INL) = 0.39 vs. CI(IN) = 0.28, neck left CI(INL) = 0.33; CI(IN) = 0.18; neck right CI(INL) = 0.24, CI(IN) = 0.14). The COV showed less dispersion and the ICC indicated higher reliability of contouring for INL (ICC(INL) = 0.62, p < 0.05) as for IN (ICC(IN) = 0.40, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: INL is a practical and feasible alternative to IN resulting in more homogeneous target delineation, and it should be therefore considered as a future target volume concept in PHL.

  • 20.
    Mullaney, Tara
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Umeå Institute of Design.
    Nyholm, Tufve
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Lindh, Viveca
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Nilsson, K.
    Uppsala Univ, Uppsala, Sweden; Akad Hosp, Uppsala, Sweden.
    Wickart-Johansson, G.
    Karolinska Univ Hosp, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Svard, A. M.
    Umea Univ Hosp, S-90185 Umea, Sweden.
    What can service design do for the pediatric radiotherapy experience?2014In: Pediatric Blood & Cancer, ISSN 1545-5009, E-ISSN 1545-5017, Vol. 61 2, no Supplement: 2 Meeting Abstract: O-187, p. S154-S154Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 21.
    Norberg, Monika
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Magnusson, Eva
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Thyme, Karin Egberg
    Åström, Sture
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing. Institutionen för Omvårdnad, kultur och hälsa, Universitet West, Trollhättan.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Öster, Inger
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Occupational Therapy.
    Breast Cancer Survivorship: Intersecting Gendered Discourses in a 5-Year Follow-Up Study2015In: Health Care for Women International, ISSN 0739-9332, E-ISSN 1096-4665, Vol. 36, no 5, p. 617-633Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    In this article we present a follow-up study of women's interview narratives about life five to seven years after a breast cancer operation. The women had taken part in a study during the six-month post-operation period. Art therapy contributed to well-being, including strengthening personal boundaries. In the new study, interview analysis informed by critical discursive psychology indicated three problematic discourses that the women still struggled with several years after the operation: the female survivor, the "good woman", individual responsibility. We concluded that many women with a history of breast cancer need support several years after their medical treatment is finished.

  • 22. Pixberg, Caroline
    et al.
    Koch, Raphael
    Eich, Hans Theodor
    Martinsson, Ulla
    Kristensen, Ingrid
    Matuschek, Christiane
    Kortmann, Rolf-Dieter
    Pohl, Fabian
    Elsayad, Khaled
    Christiansen, Hans
    Willich, Normann
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Steinmann, Diana
    Acute Toxicity Grade 3 and 4 After Irradiation in Children and Adolescents: Results From the IPPARCA Collaboration2016In: International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, Physics, ISSN 0360-3016, E-ISSN 1879-355X, Vol. 94, no 4, p. 792-799Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose: In the context of oncologic therapy for children, radiation therapy is frequently indicated. This study identified the frequency of and reasons for the development of high-grade acute toxicity and possible sequelae.

    Materials and Methods: Irradiated children have been prospectively documented since 2001 in the Registry for the Evaluation of Side Effects After Radiation in Childhood and Adolescence (RiSK) database in Germany and since 2008 in the registry for radiation therapy toxicity (RADTOX) in Sweden. Data were collected using standardized, published forms. Toxicity classification was based on Radiation Therapy Oncology Group/European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer criteria.

    Results: As of June 2013, 1500 children have been recruited into the RiSK database and 485 into the RADTOX registry leading to an analysis population of 1359 patients (age range 0-18). A total of 18.9% (n=257) of all investigated patients developed high-grade acute toxicity (grades 3/4). High-grade toxicity of the bone marrow was documented for 63.8% (n=201) of those patients, oral mucositis for 7.6% (n=24), and dermatitis for 7.6% (n=24). Patients with high-grade acute toxicity received concomitant chemotherapy more frequently (56%) than patients with no or lower acute toxicity (31.5%). In multivariate analyses, concomitant chemotherapy, diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma, and total radiation dose showed a statistically noticeable effect (P <=.05) on acute toxicity, whereas age, concomitant chemotherapy, Hodgkin lymphoma, Ewing sarcoma, total radiation dose, and acute toxicity influenced the time until maximal late toxicity.

    Conclusions: Generally, high-grade acute toxicity after irradiation in children and adolescence occurs in a moderate proportion of patients (18.9%). As anticipated, the probability of acute toxicity appeared to depend on the prescribed dose as well as concomitant chemotherapy. The occurrence of chronic toxicity correlates with the prior acute toxicity grade. Age seems to influence the time until maximal late toxicity but not the development of acute toxicity.

  • 23.
    Remes, K
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Pathology.
    Norrback, Karl-Fredrik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Pathology.
    Rosenquist, R
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Pathology.
    Mehle, Christer
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Pathology.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Roos, Göran
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Pathology.
    Telomere length and telomerase activity in malignant lymphomas at diagnosis and relapse2000In: British Journal of Cancer, ISSN 0007-0920, E-ISSN 1532-1827, Vol. 82, no 3, p. 601-607Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Telomere length maintenance, in the vast majority of cases executed by telomerase, is a prerequisite for long-term proliferation. Most malignant tumours, including lymphomas, are telomerase-positive and this activity is a potential target for future therapeutic interventions since inhibition of telomerase has been shown to result in telomere shortening and cell death in vitro. One prerequisite for the suitability of anti-telomerase drugs in treating cancer is that tumours exhibit shortened telomeres compared to telomerase-positive stem cells. A scenario is envisioned where the tumour burden is reduced using conventional therapy whereafter remaining tumour cells are treated with telomerase inhibitors. In evaluating the realism of such an approach it is essential to know the effects on telomere status by traditional therapeutic regimens. We have studied the telomere lengths in 47 diagnostic lymphomas and a significant telomere shortening was observed compared to benign lymphoid tissues. In addition, telomere length and telomerase activity were studied in consecutive samples from patients with relapsing non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Shortened, unchanged and elongated telomere lengths were observed in the relapse samples. The telomere length alterations found in the relapsing lymphomas appeared to be independent of telomerase and rather represented clonal selection random at the telomere length level. These data indicate that anti-telomerase therapy would be suitable in only a fraction of malignant lymphomas.

  • 24. Rosenquist, R
    et al.
    Lindström, A
    Li, Aihong
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical chemistry.
    Roos, Göran
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Pathology.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Holmberg, D
    Low rate of somatic hypermutations characterize progressive B-cell lymphomas.1998In: European Journal of Haematology, ISSN 0902-4441, E-ISSN 1600-0609, Vol. 61, no 3, p. 164-72Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Immunoglobulin heavy (IgH) chain gene rearrangements were characterized in 40 samples from 15 patients with B-cell lymphomas at different time points during tumour progression. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis of variable heavy (VH) chain gene segments, we found that 6 cases displayed alterations in their IgH chain rearrangements at relapse. These alterations were mainly observed in follicular or transformed lymphomas, but no association to clinical features was found. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed a low frequency of mutations in 3 cases, whereas 1 case displayed an extensive mutation rate in a compartment with transformed morphology at relapse. The mutations observed most probably resulted from somatic hypermutations. Further, the mutations were scattered randomly over the VH gene segment and no significant bias favouring amino acid substitutions was observed in 3 cases, suggesting that the tumour cells had not been subjected to antigen-driven selection. In 1 case, however, the mutation pattern indicated that the tumour cells had been affected by an antigen selection process. In the 2 remaining cases, the original V(H)DJ(H) rearrangement could no longer be detected by VH gene family specific PCR at relapse, but using primers specific for the framework region 2 or 3 altered rearrangements were demonstrated, implying that mutations had been introduced in framework region 1. However, the majority of the tumour cell clones analysed were relatively stable during tumour progression, which make them eligible for analysis of minimal residual disease using the VH gene regions as molecular markers.

  • 25. Rosenquist, R
    et al.
    Thunberg, U
    Li, Aihong
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical chemistry.
    Forestier, Erik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Medical and Clinical Genetics.
    Lönnerholm, G
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Sundström, C
    Sällström, J
    Holmberg, D
    Roos, Göran
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Pathology.
    Clonal evolution as judged by immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangements in relapsing precursor-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia.1999In: European Journal of Haematology, ISSN 0902-4441, E-ISSN 1600-0609, Vol. 63, no 3, p. 171-9Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Oligoclonality and ongoing clonal evolution are common features in patients with precursor-B (pre-B) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), as judged by immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) gene rearrangement analysis. These features are considered to be results of secondary rearrangements after malignant transformation or emergence of new tumor clones. In the present study we analyzed the IgH gene rearrangement status in 18 cases with relapsing pre-B ALL using variable heavy chain (V(H)) gene family specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and single stranded conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis. Clonal IgH rearrangements were displayed in all leukemias but one, and altered rearrangement patterns occurred in five cases (29%), which were selected for detailed nucleotide sequence analysis. In one case, multiple subclones at diagnosis were suggested to be derived from a progenitor clone through joining of different V(H) germline gene segments to a pre-existing D-J(H) complex (V(H) to D-J(H) joining). Evidence for V(H) gene replacement with identical N-sequences at the V(H)-D junction and a common D-J(H) region was observed in one case. Diversification at the V(H)-D junction consisting of heterogeneous N-sequences were observed in one case. This molecular modification of the V(H)-D region could fit a hypothesized "open-and-shut" mechanism. Nevertheless, despite these ongoing events at least one IgH rearrangement remained unchanged throughout the disease in most patients, indicating that the immunoglobulin heavy chain locus can be a suitable marker for detection of minimal residual disease (MRD).

  • 26. Svensk, A. C.
    et al.
    Öster, Inger
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Emilsson, S.
    Hedestig, Oliver
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Tavelin, Björn
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Parfa, A.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Conversational support group participation during radiotherapy period helps women with breast cancer and men with prostate cancer2015In: European Journal of Cancer, ISSN 0959-8049, E-ISSN 1879-0852, Vol. 51, p. S232-S232Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 27.
    Svensk, Ann-Christine
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Öster, Inger
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Egberg Thyme, Karin
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Psychiatry.
    Magnusson, Eva
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology. Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Women's Studies.
    Sjödin, Marie
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Eisemann, Martin
    Department of Psychology, University of Tromsøe, Tromsøe, Norway.
    Åström, Sture
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Art therapy improves experienced quality of life among women undergoing treatment for breast cancer: A randomized controlled study2009In: European Journal of Cancer Care, ISSN 0961-5423, E-ISSN 1365-2354, Vol. 18, no 1, p. 69-77Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Women with breast cancer are naturally exposed to strain related to diagnosis and treatment, and this influences their experienced quality of life (QoL). The present paper reports the effect, with regard to QoL aspects, of an art therapy intervention among 41 women undergoing radiotherapy treatment for breast cancer. The women were randomized to an intervention group with individual art therapy sessions for 1 h/week (n = 20), or to a control group (n = 21). The WHOQOL-BREF and EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire-BR23, were used for QoL assessment, and administrated on three measurement occasions, before the start of radiotherapy and 2 and 6 months later. The results indicate an overall improvement in QoL aspects among women in the intervention group. A significant increase in total health, total QoL, physical health and psychological health was observed in the art therapy group. A significant positive difference within the art therapy group was also seen, concerning future perspectives, body image and systemic therapy side effects. The present study provides strong support for the use of art therapy to improve QoL for women undergoing radiotherapy treatment for breast cancer.

  • 28.
    Ångstrom-Brännström, Charlotte
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Engvall, G.
    Mullaney, T.
    Nilsson, K.
    Wickart-Johansson, G.
    Svärd, A. M.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Nyholm, Tufve
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Lindh, Viveca
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Facilitating Radiotherapy for Children: Technique, Design and Professional Care in Synergy, a Multicenter Intervention Study2016In: Pediatric Blood & Cancer, ISSN 1545-5009, E-ISSN 1545-5017, Vol. 63, p. S213-S213Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 29.
    Ångström-Brännström, Charlotte
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Engvall, Gunn
    Mullaney, Tara
    Umeå University, Faculty of Science and Technology, Umeå Institute of Design.
    Nilsson, Kristina
    Wickart-Johansson, Gun
    Svärd, Anna-Maja
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Nyholm, Tufve
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Lindh, Viveca
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Children Undergoing Radiotherapy: Swedish Parents' Experiences and Suggestions for Improvement2015In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 10, no 10, article id e0141086Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Approximately 300 children, from 0 to 18 years old, are diagnosed with cancer in Sweden every year. Of these children, 80-90 of them undergo radiotherapy treatment for their cancer. Although radiotherapy is an encounter with advanced technology, few studies have investigated the child's and the parent's view of the procedure. As part of an ongoing multi-center study aimed to improve patient preparation and the care environment in pediatric radiotherapy, this article reports the findings from interviews with parents at baseline. The aim of the present study was twofold: to describe parents' experience when their child undergoes radiotherapy treatment, and to report parents' suggestions for improvements during radiotherapy for their children. Sixteen mothers and sixteen fathers of children between 2-16 years old with various cancer diagnoses were interviewed. Data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings showed that cancer and treatment turns people's lives upside down, affecting the entire family. Further, the parents experience the child's suffering and must cope with intense feelings. Radiotherapy treatment includes preparation by skilled and empathetic staff. The parents gradually find that they can deal with the process; and lastly, parents have suggestions for improvements during the radiotherapy treatment. An overarching theme emerged: that despair gradually turns to a sense of security, with a sustained focus on and close interaction with the child. In conclusion, an extreme burden was experienced around the start of radiotherapy, though parents gradually coped with the process.

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  • 30.
    Ångström-Brännström, Charlotte
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Lindh, Viveca
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Nyholm, Tufve
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Engvall, Gunn
    Staff's Experiences of Preparing and Caring for Children With Cancer and Their Families During the Child's Radiotherapy2019In: Cancer Nursing, ISSN 0162-220X, E-ISSN 1538-9804, Vol. 42, no 5, p. E10-E18Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Approximately one-third of children diagnosed with cancer are treated with radiotherapy (RT). Staff experiences of preparing and distracting the children and their families during a child’s RT are sparsely described.

    Objective: The aim of this study was to describe staff experiences of preparing and caring for children with cancer and their families during the child’s RT.

    Intervention/Methods: Semistructured interviews with staff were performed at 3 Swedish RT centers. The interviews were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis.

    Results: The analysis revealed 5 categories summarizing the staff members’ experiences. These include the following: experiences of various emotions; care for the child and the child’s family; commitments before, during, and after RT; organizational issues; and experiences of the intervention and suggestions for improvement.

    Conclusions: The preparatory intervention facilitated the ability of staff members to conduct their work, although the intervention should be specifically tailored to each child. Meeting children and their families and providing care to both during RT were challenging. The staff strived to provide optimal care for each child and family. Interdisciplinary teamwork and organizational acceptance for the importance of preparation and distraction were essential.

    Implications for Practice: A future challenge will be to provide opportunities for all staff involved in the treatment of children with cancer to develop their skills continuously in order to provide high-quality preparation and distraction to all children undergoing RT, regardless of the geographical location of the RT center.

  • 31.
    Öster, Inger
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Hedestig, Oliver
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Johansson, Mona
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Klingstedt, Nina
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Sharing experiences in a support group: men's talk during the radiotherapy period for prostate cancer2013In: Palliative & Supportive Care, ISSN 1478-9515, E-ISSN 1478-9523, Vol. 11, no 4, p. 331-339Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: Prostate cancer, one of the most common cancers in men, is often treated with radiotherapy, which strains both physical and mental health. This study aimed to describe the experiences of men living with prostate cancer shared within conversational support groups during a course of radiotherapy. Method: Nine men participated in one of two groups that met six or seven times, led by a professional nurse. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify themes and subthemes in the recorded group conversations. Results: The analysis resulted in six themes: living with a changing body, being in the hands of others, learning to live with the disease, the importance of knowledge, everyday life support, and meeting in the support group. The men discussed a wide variety of bodily experiences and described support from healthcare professionals, relatives, friends, and the support group as crucial to their recovery. Significance of results: Meeting men in a similar situation, sharing experiences of living with the disease, and feeling allied to each other were important to the men in our study. The conversational support group provided the patient with prostate cancer a forum where sharing was made possible.

  • 32.
    Öster, Inger
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Magnusson, Eva
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Women's Studies.
    Egberg Thyme, Karin
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Psychiatry.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Åström, Sture
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Art therapy for women with breast cancer: the therapeutic concequences of boundary strenghtening2007In: The arts in psychotherapy, ISSN 0197-4556, E-ISSN 1873-5878, Vol. 34, no 3, p. 277-288Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Between 2001 and 2004, 42 women with breast cancer (20 women in the study group and 22 women in the control group) participated in an intervention study involving art therapy. This article elaborates on previous quantitative results, taking a discursive approach and drawing on gender theories in analyzing the women's use of interpretative repertoires in interviews and diaries and their answers on single items of the Coping Resources Inventory (CRI). The aim was to inquire into whether and, if so, how and with what consequences women with breast cancer who participated in art therapy improved their access to beneficial cultural interpretative repertoires, compared to a control group. The results showed a connection between participation in art therapy, talking about protecting one's own boundaries, and scoring higher on the CRI compared to the control group. There was also a connection between the control group, repertoire conflicts, and lower scores on the CRI. Our interpretation is that art therapy became a tool the women could use to distinguish cultural understandings about boundaries and, through image making and reflections, to give higher legitimacy to their own interpretations and experience.

  • 33.
    Öster, Inger
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Svensk, Ann-Christine
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Magnusson, Eva
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Centre for Women's Studies.
    Thyme Egberg, Karin
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Psychiatry.
    Sjõdin, Marie
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Aström, Sture
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Art therapy improves coping resources: a randomized, controlled study among women with breast cancer.2006In: Palliative & Supportive Care, ISSN 1478-9515, E-ISSN 1478-9523, Vol. 4, no 1, p. 57-64Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    OBJECTIVE: Women with breast cancer suffer from considerable stress related to the diagnosis, surgery, and medical treatment. It is important to develop strategies to strengthen coping resources among these women. Research in art therapy has shown outcomes such as an increase in self-esteem and cohesion, significant improvement in global health, and a decrease in anxiety and depression. The aim of the present article was to describe the effects of an art therapy intervention program on coping resources in women with primary breast cancer. METHOD: In this article, we report some of the results from a study including 41 women, aged 37-69 years old, with nonmetastatic primary breast cancer, referred to the Department of Oncology at Umeå University Hospital in Sweden for postoperative radiotherapy. The women represented various socioeconomic backgrounds. They were randomized to a study group (n = 20) with individual art therapy for 1 h/week during postoperative radiotherapy or to a control group (n = 21). The article focuses on changes in coping resources, as measured by the Coping Resources Inventory (CRI) before and 2 and 6 months after the start of radiotherapy. The study protocol was approved by the Umeå University Ethical Committee at the Medical Faculty (archive number 99-386). RESULTS: There was an overall increase in coping resources among women with breast cancer after taking part in the art therapy intervention. Significant differences were seen between the study and control groups in the social domain on the second and third occasions. Significant differences were also observed in the total score on the second occasion. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS: This study shows that individual art therapy provided by a trained art therapist in a clinical setting can give beneficial support to women with primary breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy, as it can improve their coping resources.

  • 34.
    Öster, Inger
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Occupational Therapy.
    Tavelin, Björn
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Edberg Thyme, Karin
    Magnusson, Eva
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Isaksson, Ulf
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Åström, Sture
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Art therapy during radiotherapy – A five-year follow-up study with women diagnosed with breast cancer2014In: The arts in psychotherapy, ISSN 0197-4556, E-ISSN 1873-5878, Vol. 41, no 1, p. 36-40Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Follow-up studies on art therapy are lacking. In a randomised art therapy intervention study from 2001 to 2004 with women with breast cancer, results showed that patients benefitted from participating in art therapy for up to four months after the intervention. The aim of this study was to describe the coping resources and quality of life amongst women treated for breast cancer five to seven years after participating in individual art therapy during radiotherapy as compared to a control group. In 2009, thirty-seven women, 18 from the intervention group and 19 from the control group, answered questionnaires about their coping resources and quality of life. The results showed no significant difference between the groups regarding their coping resources or quality of life, except for an unexpected significantly lower score in the domain 'Social relations' in the study group as compared to baseline, at the time of the follow up. However, our study from 2001 to 2004 supports various positive effects of art therapy within six months of participation as compared to a control group. Consequently, attending art therapy during the treatment period for breast cancer can be of great importance to support health, coping and quality of life in a short-term perspective.

  • 35.
    Öster, Inger
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Tavelin, Björn
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Egberg Thyme, Karin
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Psychiatry.
    Magnusson, Eva
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Isaksson, Ulf
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Åström, Sture
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Art therapy during radiotherapy: a five-year follow-up study with women diagnosed with breast cancer2014In: The arts in psychotherapy, ISSN 0197-4556, E-ISSN 1873-5878, Vol. 41, no 1, p. 36-40Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Follow-up studies on art therapy are lacking. In a randomised art therapy intervention study from 2001-2004 with women with breast cancer, results showed that patients benefitted from participating in art therapy for up to at least four months after the intervention. The aim of this study was to describe the coping resources and quality of life amongst women treated for breast cancer five - seven years after participating in individual art therapy during radiotherapy as compared to a control group. In 2009, thirty-seven women, 18 from the intervention group and 19 from the control group, answered questionnaires about their coping resources and quality of life. The results showed no significant difference between the groups regarding their coping resources or quality of life, except for an unexpected significantly lower score in the domain ‘Social relations’ in the study group as compared to baseline, at the time of the follow up. However, our study from 2001–2004 supports various positive effects of art therapy within six months of participation as compared to a control group. Consequently, attending art therapy during the treatment period for breast cancer can be of great importance to support health, coping and quality of life in a short-term perspective.

  • 36.
    Öster, Inger
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Åström, Sture
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing.
    Lindh, Jack
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology.
    Magnusson, Eva
    Umeå University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology.
    Women with breast cancer and gendered limits and boundaries: Art therapy as a safe space for enacting alternative subject positions2009In: The arts in psychotherapy, ISSN 0197-4556, E-ISSN 1873-5878, Vol. 36, no 1, p. 29-38Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This article takes its starting point from certain results from our randomized study on art therapy with women with breast cancer. Previous results from this study showed significant benefits on coping, quality of life, and symptoms for women who participated in an art therapy intervention. Analyses of interviews and diaries showed that especially women from the intervention group had distanced themselves from traditionally gendered understandings about cultural limits and boundaries. The aim of this study was to gain further knowledge about how women with breast cancer who participated in the art therapy intervention gave meaning to the gendered limits and boundaries in their daily lives, and to trace their trajectories, in therapy, towards helpful management of restraining boundaries. When analyzing the women's verbal reflections on the therapy sessions, we discerned five subject positions, defining them as follows: being someone who reacts to violation attempts; actively connecting body and self; actively locating oneself and moving forward; being in a position to see important connections throughout life; and being able to acknowledge and harbour conflicting emotions. The results of the study suggest that art therapy served as a tool that helped the women to get access to subject positions that enabled them to protect and strengthen their boundaries. This involved challenging dominating discourses and reacting against perceived boundary violations. Art therapy offered a personal, physical, and pictorial “safe space” with opportunities to deal with complex existential experiences and issues, and also make important connections throughout life. Looking back and summarizing important experiences acted as a way to prepare oneself for the future and moving forward.

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