'Because Everybody is so Different': a qualitative analysis of the lived experiences and information needs of rectal cancer survivors.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To (1) characterise (A) the lived experiences and (B) information needs of patients with rectal cancer; and (2) compare to the perceived lived experiences and information needs of colorectal surgeons.

Design

We conducted 1-hour semistructured qualitative interviews, dual independent transcript coding and thematic analysis.

Setting/participants

Interviews included rectal cancer survivors (stages I-III), some accompanied by caregivers, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and experienced colorectal surgeons.

Results

We performed 25 interviews involving 30 participants, including 15 patients with 5 caregivers, plus 10 physicians. Two major themes emerged. First, patients reported major impacts on their lives following rectal cancer, including on their e

SUBMITTER: Saunders CH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8137244 | biostudies-literature | 2021 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature