Patients’ expectations of cancer treatment: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Patients’ expectations about their cancer treatment have been studied with regards to efficacy and side effects. However, previous research is largely quantitative and therefore more in-depth information about what patients expect before treatment is lacking. Exploring patients’ expectations of cancer treatment qualitatively may uncover additional concerns that have not previously been addressed. Therefore the current study aimed to qualitatively explore patients’ expectations of cancer treatment. Methods: Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve individuals who had received cancer treatment no more than two years previous. Interviews occurred face-to-face or on the telephone. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: Thematic analysis uncovered three themes: ‘focusing on the process or the outcome’, ‘investing in treatment’ and ‘physical and psychological impact’. Participants were invested in their treatment’s efficacy, treatment gave hope and was often expected to be, and viewed as, a necessary evil. The impact of treatment was ameliorated by familiarity and feeling prepared, and opportunities for social contact. Participants fell into one of two groups: those with initially negative treatment expectations who experienced some relief when treatment was not as bad as anticipated and those whose expectations were more positive who then felt shock when treatment became a reality. Discussion: Patients’ expectations of cancer treatment do include thoughts about treatment outcomes or efficacy and side effects but also focus on other factors such as the impact treatment will have on work and family life. Future research should attempt to incorporate these broader aspects of expectations and explore them further.