Advanced Cancer in Young Adults (YAs): Living in a Liminal Space

Abstract

Young adults (YAs), defined as individuals between the ages of 18 and 39 years, experience unique challenges when diagnosed with advanced cancer. Using the social constructivist grounded theory approach, we aimed to develop a theoretical understanding of how YAs live day to day with their diagnosis. A sample of 25 YAs (aged 22–39 years) with advanced cancer from across Canada participated in semi-structured interviews. Findings illustrate that the YAs described day-to-day life as an oscillating experience swinging between two opposing disease outcomes: (1) hoping for a cure and (2) facing the possibility of premature death. Oscillating between these potential outcomes was characterized as living in a liminal space wherein participants were unsure how to live from one day to the next. The participants oscillated at various rates, with different factors influencing the rate of oscillation, including inconsistent and poor messaging from their oncologists or treatment team, progression or regression of their cancer, and changes in their physical functioning and mental health. These findings provide a theoretical framework for designing interventions to help YAs adapt to their circumstance.