Survivor in the cancer context: a concept analysis

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medical Sociology
• Health Psychology

Background:

• The term 'cancer survivor' is widely used but may not accurately capture the lived experiences of all individuals with a history of malignancy.
• A need exists to refine the definition of cancer survivorship to better reflect the complex and individualized nature of the cancer journey.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define 'survivor' within the specific context of cancer.
• To analyze the concept of cancer survivorship using a rigorous methodology.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive concept analysis was conducted following Walker and Avant's established method.
• Literature searches were performed across multiple databases (PubMed, PsychInfo, CINAHL, JSTOR) and online resources.
• Thirty diverse sources published between 1987 and 2013 were analyzed for recurrent themes, critical attributes, antecedents, and consequences.

Main Results:

• A cancer survivor is characterized as an individual with a history of malignancy who has navigated a personal challenge and experiences ongoing consequences, both positive and negative.
• Crucially, the analysis revealed that not all individuals with a history of cancer identify with the label 'survivor'.

Conclusions:

• This conceptualization supports the paradigm shift viewing cancer as a chronic disease, emphasizing the unique and long-term nature of the cancer experience.
• The Theory of Uncertainty in Illness offers a valuable framework for understanding the individualized aspects of cancer survivorship.
• Future nursing research and practice should integrate the personal experiences of cancer survivors alongside general survivorship needs.