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Objectives: Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) mainly affect smokers and drinkers. However, oral cavity squamous cell cancers (OCSCCs) are increasingly affecting patients with no identified risk factors (NIRFs). This study aimed at characterising their experience of the disease.Methods: Qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews of 20 survivors of OCSCC with NIRF. Methods used in grounded theory approach were applied.Results: Patients with NIRF had a similar experience to that of patients with risk factors regarding treatments. The absence of identified causes led to stigma and led the patients to distance themselves, both from the stereotypic HNSCC cancer patient and the identity as a cancer patient. Furthermore, having no identified risk factors seemed to reinforce the fear of recurrence. Conclusion:This study is the first to address key gaps in knowledge regarding patients with NIRF having survived OCSCC. Their experience is similar to that of patients with orphan diseases. Owing to confrontation with other patients and the repeated questions of caregivers about tobacco/alcohol consumption, these patients felt stigmatised during their treatment. OCSCC patients with NIRF may benefit from guidance and support on how to engage in prevention.

The provision of psychosocial care to cancer patients has been explored in detail in the literature. The objective of the present article is to show the need for a methodological approach in exploring the social dimension of care. The study sample comprised 15 ovarian cancer participants in long-term remission, who were included in the ‘Vivrovaire’ study. We employed a qualitative approach based on semi-structured interviews. Results showed that these patients were both recipients and providers of care. We highlighted the importance of a methodological approach that considers care as a dynamic and social process in order to analyse the relational dimension of care.