Immunoglobulin (Ig) therapy is increasingly being used for secondary antibody deficiency (SAD) in cancer patients with haematological malignancies. The aetiology of SAD can be attributed to the underlying condition or to the expanding range of treatments now available that target the immune system. Most often, immunodeficiency is clinically diagnosed as hypogammaglobulinaemia in patients with haematological malignancies and results in these patients being at a greater risk of acquiring an infection. The administration of Ig therapy to improve immunity in these patients has traditionally been intravenous and in hospital. However, subcutaneous Ig therapy is an innovative and alternative approach that can be more widely implemented in cancer centres and has the potential to allow home self-administration. This article reviews current Ig practice in adults with SAD and the subsequent implications on nurses and patients in Australia.

Background Chemoradiation therapy is the standard protocol to treat anal cancer, with often severe toxicities.

Objectives This study explored patients’ responses to quality of life (QOL) issues and dispositional optimism during treatment for anal cancer.

Methods A longitudinal study assessed QOL, anal-specific issues and disposition. Data was collected at the end of treatment and at 3 months following; analysis by SPSS Version 27.

Results Twenty-one participants completed the surveys. There was a significant increase in QOL (p=.022) and overall health (p=.007) at 3 months post-treatment, as well as fatigue (p=.012), appetite loss (p=.002), pain (p=.044) and urinary frequency (p=.011). Several symptoms showed no significant change at T2. Results showed moderate optimism at T1 but high pessimism at T2.

Conclusion Reduced function remained in a range of dimensions at T2, as well as increasing pessimism.

Implications for practice Multidisciplinary interventions are needed to support these patients during and beyond treatment.

Introduction Patients with low-risk early breast cancer have the lowest risk of recurrence in the first 5 years after treatment completion compared to other breast cancers. These patients would benefit most from an alternative supportive approach that maintains contact to access an individual’s concerns and empowers people to return to a life after breast cancer.

Objectives To evaluate a new model of follow‑up care by telephone with the nurse consultant.

Methods Twelve patients enrolled on the supported self-management service.

Results Patients preferred telephone-based follow‑up, removing the need to travel to hospital. Nurse-led telephone-based follow‑up provided continuity of care and instilled feelings of confidence, reducing worry about recurrence so patients could move forward after treatment for breast cancer.

Conclusion This new model of follow‑up care with the nurse consultant has been well evaluated and is demonstrated to be a feasible and acceptable alternative to routine hospital-based follow‑up.

Background The diagnosis and treatment of cancer can cause significant psychological and physical distress for patients and their families. Participation in culturally appropriate cancer support groups has been reported to improve the psychological effects of cancer, including the patient’s ability to cope with the illness. In Australia, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, including Arabic-speaking people, face numerous challenges accessing and engaging in mainstream health support services.

Objective The purpose of this qualitative exploratory study was to describe the experiences of cancer patients, survivors, and their family members who participated in the activities of an Arabic cancer support group.

Methods Semi-structured, individual face-to-face interviews were conducted in the Arabic language using an interview guide. All interview data were transcribed verbatim in Arabic and thematically analysed.

Results Six participants agreed to participate in the interviews. Five key themes were identified – (1) a sense of belonging; (2) maintaining mental wellbeing; (3) empowerment through knowledge; (4) challenges in attending the group; and (5) envisioning support for the future.

Implications for practice Using culturally appropriate cancer support groups for Arab people affected by cancer is beneficial to improving their quality of life during the cancer journey.