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Stephanie Ejegi-Memeh
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P2.06 - Mesothelioma (ID 170)
- Event: WCLC 2019
- Type: Poster Viewing in the Exhibit Hall
- Track: Mesothelioma
- Presentations: 1
- Now Available
- Moderators:
- Coordinates: 9/09/2019, 10:15 - 18:15, Exhibit Hall
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P2.06-26 - The Military Mesothelioma Experience Study (MiMES): Initial Findings and Implications for Practice (Now Available) (ID 146)
10:15 - 18:15 | Author(s): Stephanie Ejegi-Memeh
- Abstract
Background
Background
Mesothelioma is one of the most challenging of cancers; it is incurable, has a long latency period, and is associated with extreme symptom burden. Mesothelioma mostly affects men over 65 years of age; It is linked to exposure to asbestos, normally 15-40 years prior to diagnosis.
Its industrial nature diagnosis can mean navigating complex health, legal and welfare systems. Clinical experience and anecdotal evidence from health professionals indicate that this veterans encounter particular challenges in recognising and reporting early symptoms, getting a diagnosis and accessing care and support, including financial help.
Little is known about mesothelioma amongst UK military veterans. Research is required to better understand the mesothelioma experience amongst UK military veterans and know how better to meet their needs.
Method
Methods
The Military Mesothelioma Experience Study (MiMES) is a qualitative interview based study that aims to identify the care and support needs of UK military veterans with mesothelioma from the perspective of veterans, family carers, and health professionals and support agency staff. This paper presents findings from the patient and carer data. Semi-structured interviews of up to 15 veterans with mesothelioma and 15 family carers are being conducted. Recruitment is via trusted charitable organisations including Mesothelioma UK and Asbestos Support Groups. Interviews are transcribed and analysed using Framework Analysis techniques. Interviews are being conducted between December 2018 and June 2019. 10 participants have been recruited to date (7 patients and 3 family carers).
Result
Results
The findings provide unique insight into the nature of asbestos exposure whist in the armed forces, as well as participant’s diagnostic experience. The impact of military culture on how people respond to the diagnosis and how they navigate services is considered. Valued sources of support included specialist mesothelioma medical and nursing staff as well as mesothelioma/asbestos charities. Participants reported feeling ‘in the middle’ when it came to understanding legal and financial implications of their disease and asbestos exposure in the military. Being caught between civil and military claim systems and information services could create problems, especially when making a claim was time-pressured. This had an impact on people’s quality of life over across the patient pathway.
Conclusion
Conclusions
MiMES is the first study to explore the experiences of UK military veterans with mesothelioma. Implication for practice and collaborative working are considered.
