Unmet needs and associated factors among patients with melanoma: a mixed-methods study

The burden of melanoma in China is increasing, but the supportive care needs of Chinese patients remain understudied. The applicability of Western findings may be limited by clinical and sociocultural differences. This study aimed to characterize unmet needs among Chinese patients with melanoma and identify associated factors using a mixed-methods approach.

A convergent parallel mixed-methods study was conducted. Quantitatively, 105 patients completed the Needs Evaluation Questionnaire, and multivariable binary logistic regression was performed to identify associated factors. Qualitatively, semi-structured interviews were conducted with an independent sample of 16 patients. Directed content analysis was guided by the Social Ecological Model. The quantitative and qualitative findings were integrated through a joint analysis.

Information needs were the most frequently reported unmet needs. In the multivariable model, female patients had lower odds of high unmet needs than male patients (OR = 0.257, 95%CI: 0.080-0.830, p = 0.023). Internet-based health information use was also associated with lower odds of high unmet needs (OR = 0.075, 95%CI: 0.022-0.257, p < 0.001). Nine qualitative themes were identified across individual, family/community, and sociocultural levels. Individual-level factors were most prominent. The integrated findings reflected the interplay of personal vulnerability, social support, healthcare access, information resources, and sociocultural contexts.

Unmet needs, particularly information needs, were prominent among Chinese patients with melanoma and reflected factors across multiple ecological levels. Patient-centered care should prioritize tailored information support and address barriers to healthcare access and supportive resources.