Cancer Support Group Resources Cancer support programs exist in a variety of formats.
Some groups are formal and focus on learning about cancer or dealing with feelings.
Others are informal and social. Some groups are composed only of people with cancer while others include family members or friends. Some are led by professionals, although most are self-help groups led by patients. Whatever the format, a support group can help its members deal with the fears and problems posed by a severe cancer such as mesothelioma. Finding a Support Group Doctors, nurses, or hospital social workers often will have information about local cancer support groups, including location, size, type, and how often they meet.