Living outliers: experiences, insights and narratives of exceptional survivors of incurable cancer

Abstract

ABSTRACT  Aim: Unexplained prolonged survival given a diagnosis of incurable advanced cancer is a puzzling phenomenon that recently has attracted more scientific research. The purpose of this study was to add to the understanding of how exceptional patients perceive and explain their unusual experience. Methods: We recruited patients for interviews from a population registry, patients with advanced lung or pancreatic malignancy who experienced exceptional survival. Results & conclusion: In total, 15 participants were interviewed. The main recurrent themes in most of the interviews were patient–doctor communication, family support and the patient's proactive attitude. In this study, patients attribute their longevity to relationships with their doctor and their family – not the type of treatment they received. Further research on this phenomenon is needed.