Using Q-Methodology to Identify Core Illness Experience Dimensions in Treated Lymphoma Patients

Lymphoma currently ranks first in incidence among haematological malignancies, yet few have revealed the core dimensions of the illness experience which patient-reported during treatment. This study aimed to identify those core dimensions using Q-methodology, which combines qualitative and quantitative approaches. A concourse of 59 statements was developed through literature review and dual-perspective interviews with clinicians and patients, then refined to a 39-item Q-set. Seventeen hospitalized lymphoma patients performed Q-sorting, and data were analyzed by principal component analysis with varimax rotation. Four distinct factors emerged: need for a healing environment amid severe adverse reactions; active adaptation and positive coping with treatment; chronic symptom distress and fear of recurrence; and resilient persistence under heavy financial pressure. These findings reveal complex and diverse subjective experiences of lymphoma patients. Differentiated management approaches should be applied to patients with distinct experience patterns, such as improving the physical hospital environment, fostering active coping and post-traumatic growth, alleviating recurrence anxiety, and mitigating financial toxicity.