I Cancervive: Exploring the Modern Travails of Cancer-Stricken Adolescents in the Pandemic New Normal

Abstract

Currently, the world faces two critical challenges: the COVID-19 pandemic and surging cancer cases. Healthcare systems worldwide, including the Philippines, struggle to cope with rising cancer patient mortality. Urgent action and innovative solutions are vital to managing cancer care amidst the ongoing pandemic. Hence, this study explored the journey of adolescent cancer patients who are receiving treatment during the pandemic particularly the present challenges with cancer treatment, its holistic repercussions, the patient's coping mechanisms, and their significant life breakthroughs. It employed a qualitative multiple-case study, utilizing semi-structured interviews to collect data from four (4) pediatric hematology-oncology cases. The data was analyzed using content analysis wherein the narratives of the participants were compared. The findings of the study revealed themes that represent the challenges experienced by cancer patients namely, (1) treatment and other medical services disruption; (2) reduced social support; and (3) increased contamination-related anxieties. The immediate repercussions included (1) psychological disturbance, stress, and depression; (2) uncertainty and emotional distress; (3) stronger behavioral adherence to COVID-19 prevention measures; (4) increased gadget usage/gadget dependence, and (5) decreased scholastic involvement. Further, the participants’ coping mechanisms include (1) active coping strategies via engaging activities; (2) awareness and acceptance of the current situation; (3) strong social and spiritual support, and (4) positive and active mind setting. The insights gathered from the analysis are (1) the need for better access to cancer-related services and assistance, and (2) the call for more psychological health intervention programs. The findings showed that the insights and realizations of participants emphasized the need for better access to cancer-related services and assistance and a calling for psycho-oncological therapeutic interventions for fellow cancer patients.