Rebecca Mattson

Dr. Rebecca Mattson


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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17 July 2025 in Healthcare
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
RMRebecca Mattson
Rebecca Mattson
MHMargaret Henderson
Margaret Henderson
SCSavitri Singh Carlson
Savitri Singh Carlson
Background/Objectives: Grief in cancer patients represents a multidimensional psychological response encompassing anticipatory, existential, and identity-related distress. While the recent literature has examined grief in caregivers, family members, and even healthcare professionals, the psychological grief experienced by patients themselves following a cancer diagnosis remains comparatively understudied and insufficiently characterized in empirical research. This systematic review aims to evaluate observational studies that used validated psychometric instruments to measure grief in adult cancer patients and to synthesize findings on the significance of grief in this population. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO was conducted to identify observational studies that employed validated tools to assess grief among adult cancer patients. The inclusion criteria required the use of psychometrically validated grief instruments and the collection of quantitative data. Fifteen studies met eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. Results: Grief symptoms were consistently present at moderate to high levels across diverse cancer types, care settings, and geographic regions. Preparatory Grief in Advanced Cancer (PGAC) scores often exceeded thresholds associated with clinical concern, with correlations observed between grief and psychological variables such as anxiety (r = 0.63), depression (r = 0.637), hopelessness (r = 0.63), and dignity (r = 0.654). Demographic factors (e.g., younger age, female gender) and illness perceptions (e.g., identity centrality, stigma) further intensified grief. Grief was a predominant psychological concern even when general distress measures failed to capture its presence. Conclusions: Future research is essential to identify an effective public health strategy for addressing grief through structured screening conducted in primary care and outpatient medical settings, coupled with accessible referral pathways to community-based support groups and coordinated follow-up services to facilitate grief management.

7 July 2025
Verified
Book Chapter
Open access
PDF file
RMRebecca Mattson
Rebecca Mattson
JGJennifer Green
Jennifer Green
JKJacquelyn Kerr
Jacquelyn Kerr
This chapter explores the importance of addressing macronutrient and micronutrient needs in the pre-pregnancy and prenatal periods to support optimal maternal health, fetal development, and pregnancy outcomes. Framed within a social determinants of health perspective, the chapter examines how socioeconomic status, food security, education, and cultural practices influence access to and utilization of nutritious diets. It highlights strategies to manage common nutritional challenges, such as gestational diabetes, anemia, and food accessibility issues, while offering practical, culturally relevant, and affordable solutions to improve maternal and fetal health. By integrating evidence-based dietary guidelines with actionable strategies, this chapter provides insights for those dedicated to enhancing health outcomes through effective nutritional interventions.