Social Support Needs in Patients with Cancer: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Cancer is believed to be one of the most important health problems worldwide today. In Iran, the burden of cancer is also on the rise and social support is an important aspect of modern cancer care. Therefore, we conducted the current study to determine the social needs of patients with cancer employing a qualitative content analysis. Method: This conventional qualitative content analysis was performed based on a descriptive explorative approach. Data saturation was achieved after interviewing 10 patients with cancer with in-depth semi- structured interviews. Data was gathered from autumn 2017 to spring 2018, from all the cancer patients who referred to three hospitals in Kerman. We utilized MAXQDA10 software for data analysis. Results: On average, the participants had 9 months to 4 years’ experience of cancer. The mean age of the participants was 45.7 years old. The present study revealed that the most important needs expressed by the participants were related to “organizational-therapeutic support". This main category consisted of three sub-categories, including the need for financial support, inadequate environmental conditions in health care facilities, and not having the opportunity to choose. Conclusion: The financial needs of cancer patients include the need for financial support from the spouse and the need for financial support from public and nongovernmental organizations. Their financial needs lead into not pursuing their treatment. Therefore, paying attention to the culture and values of patients is one of the important issues in providing care to these patients. Researchers have suggested focusing on further organizational support and ways to mitigate the needs of this group.