Meaning of nutrition for cancer survivors: a photovoice study

Little is known about how cancer survivors perceive nutrition through the cancer experience and how those perceptions may influence their diet.

This study aimed to capture the meaning of nutrition for cancer survivors who are post-cancer treatment using a participatory photography method known as photovoice.

Wang and Burris's photovoice procedure was followed. Recruitment took place via email through existing links with participants from a previous quantitative study. The participants were tasked with taking photographs to represent the meaning of nutrition for them post-treatment. Group workshops and semistructured interviews were conducted to facilitate reflection, dialogue and analysis. Data analysis followed Braun and Clarke's six-phase thematic analysis.

One man and seven women (n=8) across the Island of Ireland were recruited. Participants identified six themes (illustrated with photographs): (1) Fresh is Best, (2) Be kind to yourself, (3) Building Blocks. Be Informed., (4) Post-Treatment Healing Changes, (5) Chemo Rituals and (6) Food for the Soul-Healthy Mind. Healthy Body.

Participants displayed a holistic approach to a healthy lifestyle for recovery post-treatment and maintaining health. While diverse, participants made post-treatment nutritional changes by introducing and eliminating certain foods or food groups. All agreed that being informed and building nutrition knowledge are essential. It is important to clarify the implications cancer has had on diet and health when providing nutrition guidance to ensure that it is appropriate and specific.