Making Life Meaningful After Cancer: A Qualitative Study of Meaning in Life among Young Adults with Cancer in Malaysia

Abstract

Searching for meaning in life is important to have positive experiences; however, it is challenging for young adults diagnosed with cancer. This study investigates what cancer means to young adults with cancer and how they make life meaningful after a cancer diagnosis. This qualitative study involved 14 young adults recruited from a closed Facebook group. The age range of the participants was between 20 and 39 years, and their survival year was 1–18 years. Semi-structured interviews and a thematic analysis were performed to identify the major themes that emerged from these interviews. The findings identified that cancer means trial, not punishment; cancer does not mean death; it is a second chance at life, and life after cancer is meaningless. Four ways made their lives meaningful: (1) helping people; (2) developing a routine and to-do list; (3) happiness is intangible; and (4) finding solace in the cancer journey. Their meaning in life after a cancer diagnosis was portrayed in a favourable light, with religion and culture playing a significant role in determining how they responded to illness. This study will enrich the existing literature on meaning in life and provide important insight into providing an appropriate support system and strengthening healthcare professional support to help young adults with cancer throughout their cancer journey.