INTERVIEWS WITH MEN WITH PROSTATE-CANCER ABOUT THEIR SELF-HELP GROUP EXPERIENCE

This study reports on the results of semi-structured interviews with 1 2 men involved in prostate cancer self-help groups in three Canadian c ities. Overall, participants reported their group involvement to be he lpful, especially in terms of accessing information. Additional benefi ts included finding commonality with others, being able to talk about difficult issues, being productive and accomplishing tasks, advocating to make a difference, and engaging with family members around health issues. We conclude that the recent growth of self-help groups speaks to the challenge inherent for men in dealing with prostate cancer and counteracts tendencies to minimize the suffering which they experience .