Lived experiences of young adults facing a recent diagnosis of cancer: A phenomenological study

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionYoung adulthood is a period of prosperity and freshness characterized by developmental achievement, which can be inhibited by various diseases such as cancer. Typically considered a terminal disease, if diagnosed in young adulthood, cancer may trigger a tremendous psychosomatic shock. The nature of facing a recent cancer diagnosis affects the whole coping process. Addressing young adults' experiences at the confirmation point of cancer diagnosis will facilitate supporting them through the early recognition of probable problems in the future. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyse the lived experiences of young adults facing a recent cancer diagnosis.MethodsThis qualitative study adopted an interpretive phenomenology design. In this study, 12 patients (with an age range of 20–40) were selected using the purposive sampling method. Data collection was done through in‐depth, semistructured interviews. The data were analysed following the method proposed by Diekelmann et al.FindingsThree main themes and nine subthemes were extracted from the data: (1) spiritual detachment and then acceptance through spirituality in the form of denial and then forced acceptance, sense of guilt and spiritual help‐seeking, and anger towards God and then humbleness, (2) the shock of facing an extraordinary life shaped by disturbed role‐play and unusual lifestyle, (3) anticipatory anxiety concerning the sense of rejection, negative perspective towards future, inability to afford the costs and worries about the future of the family members.ConclusionThis was the first study providing significant insights into the experiences of young adults facing a recent cancer diagnosis. The diagnosis of cancer can shadow all aspects of young adults' lives. The findings of the present study empower healthcare professionals to provide newly diagnosed young adults with appropriate health services.Patient ContributionsTo identify and recruit the participants, we explained the objectives of the present study to the unit managers either by phone or in person. The participants were approached and interviewed by three authors. Participation was voluntary and the participants received no financial contribution for their time.