The Process for Young Adult Generation Cancer Survivors Who Developed Cancer in Young Adulthood to Explore Information About Their Daily Lives After Diagnosis

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to elucidate the process by which young adult cancer survivors seek information that helps them in managing their daily lives following their diagnosis.

Method: Nineteen cancer survivors participated in semi-structured interviews, which were subsequently analyzed using M-GTA.

Results: Cancer survivors “obtain information on living with cancer from those who have experienced it and then share it themselves in order to connect with their peers.” They “look for ways to organize their lives by overcoming physical and mental pain and financial problems.” Furthermore, they “continue to seek information on living a life that is in line with their life cycle while living with cancer.” They encounter challenges when interacting with their children and parents and attempt to resolve issues through trial and error. Nevertheless, they also endeavor to prevent their children from experiencing hardships in the event of an emergency. Cancer survivors possess their own perspectives when it comes to gathering information.

Conclusion: It was evident that cancer survivors are actively pursuing ways to mitigate the pain associated with the disease, maintain social connections, and coexist with cancer while thinking about their families.