Kolva photo 2015

Elissa Kolva

ASST PROFESSOR-CLINICAL HEALTH
  • Medical Oncology (SOM)

Research Description

Young women with breast cancer often experience reproductive concerns or threats to plans for fertility, pregnancy, and parenting which can negatively impact quality of life and result in symptoms of psychological distress. Women are less likely than men to receive fertility-related information, and there is limited research on psychological support interventions for this population. A loss of meaning and purpose in life due to reproductive concerns can negatively impact quality of life in women with cancer. The purpose of Dr. Kolva’s study is to explore the relationship between reproductive concerns, psychological distress, and sense of purpose in young women with breast cancer and identify preferences for psychological intervention, including meaning-centered therapy.