Date of Conferral

2016

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Maria Van Tilburg

Abstract

As compared to pediatric and older adult cancer patients, young adults are the only oncology group that has not demonstrated an increase in survival rates. Low treatment adherence rates have been one explanation for this discrepancy, although this hypothesis has not been explored specifically. Guided by the biopsychosocial model of health and wellness, this study compared the treatment adherence rates of 46 young adult cancer patients (ages 18-39 years) to 46 older adult cancer patients (ages 40 years and older). Adherence was measured by a dichotomized variable, as yes/no, adhering to radiation treatment and follow-up appointments recommended by the physician, 95% of the time. Additionally, gender and race were explored in relationship to adherence to radiation treatment and follow-up appointments. Demographic data were first extracted from the Cancer Registry of a Midwestern Hospital. Then radiation appointments and follow-up appointments were examined for each patient, in paper and/or computerized charts, to determine adherence rates. McNemar's test was used to compare young adults and older adult oncology patients' adherence rates, and Chi-square analysis was used to explore gender and race in relationship to adherence. Results indicated a lower adherence rate to follow-up appointments for younger adults as compared to older adults, with older adults adhering 3 -½ times more than younger adults. Gender was also related to follow-up appointment adherence, with males adhering better than females. This study contributes to positive social change by increasing the knowledge base of healthcare providers on adherence rates of young adult patients and reducing the dollars spent on treatment for re occurrences.

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