The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #59849

Doris Segal Matsunaga, MPH, Health Education, Kalihi-Palama Health Center, 915 North King Street, Honolulu, HI 96701, 808-791-6330, dsmatsunaga@hawaii.rr.com and Carolyn Cook Gotay, PhD, Cancer Research Center, University of Hawaii, 1236 Lauhala Street, Honolulu, HI 96813.

While many cancer survivors address cancer-related concerns through contact with fellow patients in support groups, few reports have focused on the experience of Asians and Pacific Islanders. This presentation summarizes results of semi-structured interviews with 24 participants in a well-established prostate cancer support group in Hawaii, most of whom were of Asian or Pacific ancestry. The men described the benefits of group participation, identified factors they believe contribute to their group’s success, and reported ways in which the group contributes to the larger community. The experiences of members of this support group contrast with others reported in the literature. Distinct features of this group may stem from the values and norms of its close-knit, multi-ethnic, predominantly Asian and Pacific Islander community. The findings imply that for prostate support groups, one size does not fit all men and communities, and tailoring support groups to the intended participants is critical.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to:
• 1. List three factors contributing to the success of the prostate cancer support group described in this presentation,
• 2. Describe two ways in which this group differed from other men’s cancer support groups reported in the literature, and
• 3. Identify lessons learned from the experience of this group that may be applicable to a cultural or community group with which the participant is familiar.

Keywords: Cancer, Asian and Pacific Islander

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.