Iranian cancer patients and their perspectives: a qualitative study

Abstract

The incidence of cancer is continuing to rise in Iran. More people are now surviving cancer. They may require different kinds of care and support from those traditionally available. The expression of needs and how they are met in different cultural contexts can inform local assessment of needs and provide insights for initiatives in holistic cancer care. This study explores Iranian cancer patients' needs from patients' perspective. A qualitative design that consists of interviews, field notes and specified demographic information was used. Thirty participants were interviewed during the summer and autumn of 2009. The study conducted in a cancer research centre (Omid Hospital) in Mashhad, Iran. Interviews were analysed using a content analysis method. The results indicate that Iranian cancer patients are more likely to suffer from the impact of cancer on their daily life than physical symptoms related to the disease and its treatment. Cancer affected several aspects of their daily living, including their financial situation, ability to work and family life. Cost of treatment and psychosocial distress were the two aspects rated by respondents to be the most affected. Iranian cancer patients need holistic care which covers all the influences that affect their personal's life.

Cancer Patients’ Views on the Family Changes and the Family Social Support

“…This reaction may be considered as criticism because they did not accept their mother as she was. Criticism has likewise been found in past research (Moradian et al, 2012).…”

Social Support and its Predictors Among Iranian Cancer Survivors

“…There are no any studies investigated the problems faced by Iranian cancer survivors distinctively. Although, some other studies showed that Iranian cancer patients have experienced many complications such as marital problems (Azizi et al, 2010), anxiety and depression (Malekian et al, 2007), social isolation (Rahemi, 2006), physical problems (Abdollahzadehet al, 2014) and financial distress (Moradian et al, 2012).…”

Attitudes Toward Cancer and Cancer Patients in an Urban Iranian Population

“…Cancer is the third leading cause of death in Iran , with annual incidence rates of 120.1 and 134.7 per 100,000 in women and men, respectively, and annual mortality rates of 41.2 and 60 per 100,000 in women and men, respectively . Although more than 90% of Iranian people have health insurance coverage, cancer care is assumed by patients to be costly for them due to copayments at time of service . However, access to cancer care centers is possible for most cancer patients and they are mostly satisfied by the provided services .…”