Matthew J. Bitsko

The Adolescent with Asthma

The adolescent with asthma experiences a period of physical and psychosocial changes that affect their health and well-being. Overall, adolescents with asthma are at increased risk for asthma morbidity and death. Increased rates of depression and anxiety, for the adolescent and their caregivers, can lead to non-adherence to their medical regimens, poor symptom control, and poor treatment outcomes. Contextual factors, such as race, ethnicity, and living situation, affect the prevalence, morbidity, and mortality for the adolescent with asthma. These factors also affect the transition process for adolescents entering adult medical care. An overview is presented of how the adolescent with asthma differs and how healthcare providers can promote effective asthma management and better asthma control.

Psychosocial Late Effects in Pediatric Cancer Survivors: A Report From the Children's Oncology Group

This review was conducted to update the Childrens Oncology Group (COG) Long‐Term Follow‐Up Guidelines (COG‐LTFU Guidelines, version 4.0) regarding screening for psychosocial late effects of pediatric cancer.

Relations Among Optimism, Perceived Health Vulnerability, and Academic, Self-Regulatory, and Social Self-Efficacy in Adolescent Survivors of Childhood Cancer

This study investigated relations among optimism, perceived health vulnerability, treatment intensity, and academic, self-regulatory, and social self-efficacy in adolescent survivors of childhood cancer. Fifty-six adolescent survivors (Mage = 16.19 years, SD = 2.48) completed questionnaires. Compared to a previously published sample of adolescents without a history of cancer, survivors reported similar academic, higher self-regulatory, and lower social self-efficacy. Optimism and health vulnerability were associated with changes in academic, self-regulatory, and social self-efficacy. Cancer-specific variables (e.g., treatment intensity, time since treatment ended) were unrelated to self-efficacy. Interventions aimed at enhancing self-efficacy may benefit from exploring optimism and health vulnerabilities as mechanisms for change.

Self-Efficacy and Readiness for Transition from Pediatric to Adult Care in Sickle Cell Disease

Abstract Background: Theories of self-care management, particularly the development of self-efficacy or confidence in one’s ability to manage health-related goals, tasks, and challenges may provide a useful framework for developing programs to improve transition from pediatric to adult care for youth and young adults with sickle cell disease (SCD). Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the hypothesis stating that ratings of self-efficacy is positively associated with self-ratings of transition readiness. Subjects: A total of 113 individuals with SCD aged 14–26 years at two distinct sites of care were recruited for the study. Materials and methods: Participants completed the Transition Intervention Program Readiness for Transition (TIP-RFT) assessment, the Sickle Cell Self-Efficacy Scale and the Sickle Cell Stress –Adolescent scale. Results: In multivariate regression models, self-efficacy was positively associated with scores on the total TIP-RFT and on the Education/Vocation Planning and Independent Living Skills scales. Older age was independently associated with higher scores on the Independent Living Skills scale and higher stress levels were independently associated with lower scores on Education/Vocation Planning scale. Conclusion: The TIP-RFT assessment, along with measures of self-efficacy and stress, appear to be useful measures of overall transition readiness for youth and young adults with SCD. Future studies should evaluate whether self-management skill development and health outcomes are indeed affected by programs to improve readiness for transition from pediatric to adult care.

Effects of a brief problem-solving intervention for parents of children with cancer

ABSTRACT This study examines a problem-solving intervention for parents of children with cancer. It was hypothesized that the intervention would improve problem-solving ability and decrease symptoms of caregiving stress and posttraumatic stress compared controls. 39 parents were assessed at baseline, one month, and three months post-intervention. No significant results were found. This study adds to research on problem-solving interventions for parents of children with cancer. Future studies should consider timing of interventions and target parents under the highest levels of distress.

“Cancer was a speed bump in my path to enlightenment:” A qualitative analysis of situational coping experiences among young adult survivors of childhood cancer

ABSTRACT Young adult survivors of childhood cancer (N = 47) completed essays exploring situational coping within a mixed methods study. Data were qualitatively analyzed using consensual qualitative research-modified methodology. Five themes emerged: (1) initial reactions to cancer, (2) adjustment/coping with cancer diagnosis and treatment, (3) provisions of social support, (4) perceived effects of cancer experience, and (5) reflections on the cancer experience. Perceptions of childhood cancer experiences appear generally positive, with the majority of negative reactions emerging immediately following diagnosis. Cognitive behavioral and supportive interventions may be most beneficial in the initial postdiagnosis period and should emphasize lasting benefits, accomplishments, and profound effects.