"Cancer doesn't mean curtains": benefit finding in patients with head and neck cancer in remission

There is an increasing awareness that there are often aspects of the experience of cancer that patients view as positive or beneficial despite substantial physical and psychological impacts. Individuals with head and neck cancer (HNC) are unique with respect to the possible facial disfigurement and functional limitations following disease and treatment. This qualitative study aimed to explore whether patients with HNC experience positive consequences posttreatment, and to investigate the nature of any benefit finding. Emerging master themes included a change in life priorities, greater closeness to family and friends, a greater awareness of self, for example, an increase in self-confidence and empowerment, and a greater awareness of faith and spirituality. Despite the adverse affects often associated with HNC, patients report some degree of positive growth following treatment.