This study aimed to understand how the identity of Manitobans with early malignancy is affected through diagnosis, decision making and treatment. Using grounded-theory methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 adult patients with early breast, colon, lung, prostate and gynecological cancers, before and after adjuvant treatment decision making. 15 adult friends and family members were also interviewed. Significant findings include: 1) After diagnosis, the “cancer identity” emerged as a new aspect of the patient’s identity; 2) Establishing a post-diagnosis routine was a significant source of distress for patients; 3) Ability to re-establish routine post-diagnosis may be enhanced by providing earlier notification of medical appointment times and information regarding how different treatment options will affect the patient’s identity. This study provides new insight into the experience of patients with malignancy in Manitoba. Additionally, it presents recommendations, based on the insights and concerns of its participants, for improving the cancer journey of Manitobans. / May 2017
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:MANITOBA/oai:mspace.lib.umanitoba.ca:1993/32197 |
| Date | 06 April 2017 |
| Creators | Thiessen, Maclean |
| Contributors | Hack, Tom (Nursing), DeCoteau, Marcia (Community Health Sciences) Pitz, Marshall (Medicine) Funk, Laura (Sociology) |
| Source Sets | University of Manitoba Canada |
| Detected Language | English |
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