The preliminary results of the culturally adapted Fear of Recurrence Therapy for Mexican breast cancer survivors (FORT-Mx)

Abstract

Introduction: FORT is a standardized and manualized group intervention using cognitive components and existential therapy elements. In Mexico, an interactive and thorough process was carried out to adapt it culturally to Spanish; however, its effects on breast cancer survivors (FORT-Mx) have not being explored directly to generate evidence for its implementation. Objective: To evaluate the preliminary results of the FORT-Mx therapy in a hybrid format on anxiety, depression, fear of recurrence, and quality of life in Mexican breast cancer survivors. Method: Women with breast cancer over 18 years old who had completed their first line of treatment were invited to participate. Three intervention groups of FORT-Mx (5-8 patients per group) were conducted, with 14 participants. The group format consisted of 5 remote sessions and one inperson session. The culturally adapted therapist and patient manuals were used. Results: FCR (fear of cancer recurrence), anxiety, and depression significantly decreased after the intervention. The effect on anxiety was more pronounced: More survivors showed clinical change compared to depression. No significant differences were found regarding quality of life. Conclusions: This pilot study shows positive results regarding the effects of FORT-Mx in Spanish after an exhaustive process of culturally adaptation to the Mexican survivors of breast cancer.