The desire to survive: The adaptation process of adult cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy

Abstract

Aim: Radiotherapy is one of the primary treatment strategies for cancer. However, patients not only deal with the side‐effects of radiotherapy, but they must also endure the psychological distress caused by cancer. This study explores how cancer patients adapt to the treatment process when receiving radiotherapy. Methods: This study used a grounded theory approach, and eight in‐depth interviews were conducted with newly diagnosed cancer patients who received radiotherapy as a primary treatment. Results: The core category that emerged from this study was "the desire to survive". The categories and subcategories that emerged from the data include facing unknown situations (e.g. searching for relevant information and decision‐making considerations, and listening to healthcare professionals' suggestions), experiencing the pain of treatment (e.g. tolerating side‐effects, tolerating inconvenience during the treatment, accepting support during the treatment, and adjusting lifestyles), and chances to extend life (e.g. accepting fate, determination to undergo the treatment, and adjusting negative emotions). Conclusion: The study results provide a better understanding of the experiences of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Healthcare professionals should provide effective medical management for side‐effects and psychological support to cancer patients during the journey of radiotherapy.