The significance of fellow patients for head and neck cancer patients in the radiation treatment period

Abstract

PurposeHead and neck cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy feel anxiety, fear, and stress. The literature describes the importance of social support; however, there is a lack of research that describes what value fellow patients provide to cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment. The objective of this study was to explore how head and neck cancer patients are affected by their fellow patients in the radiation treatment period. MethodThis study was conducted via qualitative interviews, taking on a phenomenological, hermeneutic approach. Eleven head and neck cancer patients were interviewed. ResultsContact with fellow patients can lead to less loneliness, reduction of uncertainty and negative feelings can be reduced. The feelings of having control can increase and self-esteem can be strengthened. ConclusionsWhen head and neck cancer patients make relationship with fellow patients during radiation treatment, the contact can lead to a sense of emotional comfort or, sometimes, emotional distress. The relationship can result in increased knowledge and to a sense of feeling meaningful to fellow patients. This ensures better coping with treatment and side-effects.