Breaking news of cancer diagnosis: A qualitative study on the experiences and emotional needs of patients with cancer in a multiethnic Asian setting

• Main Authors: Wong, Li-Ping, Kong, Yek-Ching, Bhoo-Pathy, Nanthini Thevi, Subramaniam, Shridevi, Bustamam, Ros Suzanna, Taib, Nur Aishah, Ho, Gwo-Fuang, Zaharah, Hafizah, Mellor, Matin, Woo, Yin-Ling, Yip, Cheng-Har, Bhoo-Pathy, Nirmala
• Format: Article
• Published: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
• Subjects: R Medicine (General)
• Online Access: http://eprints.um.edu.my/34579/

PURPOSE: The breaking of news of a cancer diagnosis is an important milestone in a patient's cancer journey. We explored the emotional experiences of patients with cancer during the breaking of news of a cancer diagnosis and the arising needs in a multiethnic Asian setting with limited supportive cancer care services. METHODS: Twenty focus group discussions were conducted with 102 Asian patients with cancer from diverse sociodemographic backgrounds. Thematic analysis was performed. RESULTS: While most participants, especially younger patients with young children, experienced intense emotional distress upon receiving a cancer diagnosis, those with a family history of cancer were relatively calm and resigned. Nonetheless, the prior negative experience with cancer in the family made affected participants with a family history less eager to seek cancer treatment and less hopeful for a cure. Although a majority viewed the presence of family members during the breaking of bad news as important, a minority opted to face it alone to lessen the emotional impact on their family members. Difficulties disclosing the news of a cancer diagnosis to loved ones also emerged as an important need. Sensitive and empathetic patient-physician communication during the breaking of news of a cancer diagnosis was stressed as paramount. CONCLUSION: A patient-centered communication approach needs to be developed to reduce the emotional distress to patients and their families after the breaking of bad news of a cancer diagnosis. This is expected to positively affect the patients' subsequent coping skills and attitudes toward cancer, which may improve adherence to cancer therapy.