Exploring the End-of-Life Experiences of Advanced Cancer Patients from India
# Objective Paying attention to the socio-cultural characteristics of advanced cancer patients as they pass through the final stages of life can help healthcare professionals and mental health professionals assess the end-of-life experiences of terminally ill patients better. A comprehensive study...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Open Medical Publishing
2022-06-01
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| Series: | Health Psychology Research |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.52965/001c.36272 |
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| Summary: | # Objective
Paying attention to the socio-cultural characteristics of advanced cancer patients as they pass through the final stages of life can help healthcare professionals and mental health professionals assess the end-of-life experiences of terminally ill patients better. A comprehensive study of this population in the Indian context is helpful to devise individualized end-of-life care that aligns with their preferences and focuses on their comfort.
# Method
The dataset comprised information-rich cases of 10 advanced cancer patients from Bangalore, India, selected using the purposive sampling method. The semi-structured interviews with the participants were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated. Identification of patterns and commonalities in the dataset helped generate codes. The codes were used to narrow down to overarching themes.
# Results
The standout themes were outlook on life, unfulfilled goals, end-of-life expectations, and death anxieties and attitudes to impending death.
# Significance of Results
The study highlights the psychosocial and cultural needs of the patients in end-of-life care. How advanced cancer patients long for psychological care from mental health professionals and empathy from their loved ones. This study argues for renewed attention on the socio-cultural characteristics of terminally ill patients to enhance individualized care through culturally-competent interventions. |
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| ISSN: | 2420-8124 |