Perceptions of terminology among individuals known to oncology services: a cross sectional survey

While the term "cancer survivor" is commonly used, existing definitions vary, and people with cancer may relate to the term differently. This study aimed to assess how people diagnosed with cancer perceive the label "cancer survivor" and to explore their preferences for alternative terminology.

This was a single-centre cross-sectional study. Oncology patients completed a questionnaire assessing their preferences for healthcare terminology, and the term "cancer survivor."

A total of 387 participants completed the survey; most were female (93.0%) and had breast cancer (89.1%). Over half (58.1%) moderately or strongly liked the term "cancer survivor," and 61.7% moderately or strongly agreed with the National Cancer Institute definition. Participants most commonly identified individuals who had completed anticancer treatment with no known cancer present as a "cancer survivor," whereas only 12.9% felt the term applied to those with progressive or terminal disease. "Patient" was the most preferred descriptor (62.5% moderately or strongly liked), followed by "oncology patient," compared with more consumer-oriented terms such as "client," which 22.2% moderately or Most participants (68.8%) considered terminology to be important or very important. Qualitative responses revealed that some viewed "cancer survivor" as empowering and encouraging, while others felt it did not accurately reflect their experience and evoked fear or discomfort.

These findings highlight some variability in how oncology patients relate to the term "cancer survivor" and emphasize the need for more inclusive, person-centered language.

Healthcare professionals should consider using patient-informed terminology that respects their experiences across the cancer continuum.