Publication
Bereavement in paediatric oncology: programme evaluation
Podda M, Nigro O, Barretta F, Schiavello E, Grampa P, Luksch R, Terenziani M, Ferrari A, Casanova M, Spreafico F, Meazza C, Biassoni V, Chiaravalli S, Bergamaschi L, Colombo V, Puma N, Gattuso G, Sironi G, Clerici C, Lombardi M, Forzini G, Massimino M · BMJ Supportive and Palliative Care · 2026
Objectives: The death of a child from cancer is a devastating event with long-term psychological and social consequences for parents. While bereavement support is increasingly recognised as a standard of care in paediatric oncology, structured programmes remain limited and heterogeneous. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of bereaved parents of paediatric oncology patients treated at our institution. A structured questionnaire, developed by a multidisciplinary team, explored experiences with bereavement initiatives and preferences for supportive activities. Results: Of 156 questionnaires distributed, 74 were returned (47% response rate). Mothers completed 51% of the surveys, fathers 35% and both parents jointly 14%. Although 70% of parents reported no perceived need for formal bereavement support, 56% found volunteer activities and 62% ongoing contact with healthcare staff to be helpful. Preferred support options included counselling with a psychologist (38%), commemorative ceremonies (34%), peer groups (30%) and self-help groups (26%). Parents bereaved for more than 3 years expressed greater interest in peer meetings and contact with clinicians. No significant gender differences were observed. Conclusions: Parental bereavement needs are frequently underestimated and may extend beyond traditional counselling. A proactive and diversified model—integrating psychological care, peer mentorship and structured contact with healthcare teams—should be systematically offered to improve adaptation and reduce isolation among bereaved parents. © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2026. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ Group.
Synced from the TRENDS in Pediatric Palliative Care Zotero library, curated by The Siden Research Team. ICPCN does not host or verify the full text.