Stress and coping strategies among allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation survivors: A qualitative study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this qualitative study was to explore allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) survivors' perspectives of stresses and their coping strategies, in order to attain a deeper understanding of their experience. METHODS: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 Japanese allo-HSCT survivors about the stresses they experienced and how they coped. We then conducted a content-driven thematic analysis of the interview results. The interview questions probed stresses and coping strategies related to allo-HSCT. RESULTS: We identified 74 stresses across 7 domains: symptoms after transplantation, limitations in daily life, appearance changes, relationship anxieties, work impairment and financial issues, uncertainty and disappointed expectations. In addition, 21 coping strategies were identified across 3 domains: direct efforts to manage problems, adaptive attitude, and seeking and using social support. CONCLUSION: By identifying a broad range of stressors associated with allo-HSCT, insight was gained as to the impact of allo-HSCT on survivors' lives. These results provide a foundation for the future development of resources for survivors, their significant others and clinicians. Stressors and coping strategies among allo-HSCT survivors were comprehensively characterised, which will provide useful information for patients and enable healthcare practitioners to provide better care.

The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) and Japanese anti-tobacco measures.

Japanese anti-tobacco measures are reviewed and checked the relationship between the FCTC and its changes. Japan is making efforts to follow the FCTC, but it is insufficient and present anti-tobacco measures seem to have only a little impact on decreasing smoking rates. More effective measures should be developed for reducing smoking rates and for making smoke-free society.