{
  "abstract": "Background Effective communication around cancer in paediatric oncology is essential for psychological coping and treatment adherence. Disclosure is often complex and can be influenced by emotional readiness, family dynamics, and cultural or religious factors. Reluctance to discuss cancer openly can be a recurring challenge, with and among families, for various reasons. This project aimed to support staff in navigating diagnosis disclosure, in psychologically and culturally informed ways, through a combined approach: (1) a systematic literature review examining cancer communication practices, and (2) reflective and case discussion spaces for staff to process challenges and develop best practices.Methods A systematic review was conducted to explore communication practices in paediatric oncology, focusing on Arabic-speaking families, a cohort within our GOSH service. From 1,455 studies screened, 11 met inclusion criteria. Findings informed two staff reflective and case discussion sessions (n=15 and n=10), focused on interdisciplinary dialogue, case-based learning, and identification of best practices.Results Key factors shaping disclosure included the child’s developmental level, family dynamics, cultural and religious beliefs, and previous care experiences. Non-disclosure and protective strategies were common; however, evidence suggested children generally prefer honest, developmentally appropriate information. Staff identified critical practice points:Understanding prior knowledge and explanations gained during care abroad.Determining who leads sensitive conversations (e.g. medical staff, psychologists, playworkers).Ensuring consistent messaging and use of interpreters across the care team.Familial preferences often evolve; flexible, ongoing communication is needed.Developing developmentally– and culturally– appropriate resources (e.g., personalised disclosure plans).Conclusion A gradual, event-triggered disclosure approach, co-developed with families and tailored to each child, was proposed. The value of empowering children and maintaining open communication was highlighted. Insights informed weekly psychosocial meetings, with future plans for resource development and family feedback surveys. Personalised disclosure plans in oncology emerged from this work as a key area for further development.",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, UK"
      ],
      "name": "Yasmine Olabi"
    },
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Newcastle University, UK"
      ],
      "name": "India Browne"
    }
  ],
  "title": "135 Team approaches to cancer communication with children and families in international paediatric oncology",
  "uid": "72f56471-56dd-5f6b-8477-bd04deafcb4f"
}