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Dimensions of quality of life and psychosocial variables most salient to colorectal cancer patients
Author(s) -
Dunn Jeff,
Lynch Brigid,
Rinaldis Machelle,
Pakenham Kenneth,
McPherson Lyn,
Owen Neville,
Leggett Barbara,
Newman Beth,
Aitken Joanne
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
psycho‐oncology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.41
H-Index - 137
eISSN - 1099-1611
pISSN - 1057-9249
DOI - 10.1002/pon.919
Subject(s) - psychosocial , salient , quality of life (healthcare) , colorectal cancer , quality (philosophy) , psychology , cancer , medicine , computer science , psychotherapist , artificial intelligence , philosophy , epistemology
Abstract Colorectal cancer is one of the most common invasive cancers, and is responsible for considerable physical and psychosocial morbidity. Understanding the quality of life experienced by colorectal cancer patients is essential for evaluating the full impact of the disease on individuals, their families and their communities. Patient perspective is essential in establishing a proper understanding of the quality of life of colorectal cancer patients. Despite this, few studies have employed a qualitative methodology to explore quality of life issues for colorectal cancer patients. A review of the literature identified only seven qualitative studies pertaining to quality of life issues for colorectal cancer patients, a surprising finding given the prevalence of this cancer. Accordingly, this study sought to build on the findings of previous qualitative research by providing descriptive data on the quality of life and psychosocial variables most salient to colorectal cancer patients. Six core themes emerged from interview and focus group data: Satisfaction with diagnosis and treatment; support (including information provision); quality of life; benefits of diagnosis; making sense of the cancer experience; and coping strategies. The information derived from this study will help inform the development of supportive care services to address the needs of the increasing number of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.