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Young and Middle-Aged Cancer Patients' Experiences and Perceptions of Meaning in Life: A Qualitative Study
Shuman Wang1, Lina Xiang2, Yu Zhang1
1Department of Nursing, Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center, Fudan University Cancer Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology; and Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Proton and Heavy Ion Radiation Therapy, Shanghai, China.
Background:
Young and middle-aged cancer patients often face unique challenges, which may trigger their reflection and inquiry into the meaning in life. Patients from different cultural backgrounds and life stages may have varied experiences and perceptions of meaning in life, making it necessary to explore this further.
Aims:
This study aimed to explore their experiences and perceptions of meaning in life among young and middle-aged cancer patients, providing a foundation for developing targeted interventions.
Methods:
A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with young and middle-aged cancer patients aged 20 to 49 between June and September 2023. Data were analyzed using the Colaizzi method.
Results:
Interviews were conducted with 23 young and middle-aged cancer patients, and four themes were identified: the foundation of meaning in life: shaped by era, education, and environment; the ebb and flow of meaning in life: revealed amid crisis, stress, and emotional fluctuations; the reconstruction of meaning in life: assimilation and accommodation triggered by emotional burden; and the growth of meaning in life: through active engagement with life.
Conclusions:
Young and middle-aged cancer patients experience meaning in life as fluid and complex. Despite experiencing confusion and distress, patients can reconstruct their meaning system through assimilation and accommodation, and perceive the meaning in life in multiple ways through engagement with life. It is essential for healthcare providers and researchers to offer timely meaning-centered support.
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