Cancer Patients’ Views on the Family Changes and the Family Social Support

When someone is diagnosed with cancer, their entire family is affected. This study investigates how patients with cancer perceive changes in their family and the types of support provided by family members. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight individuals with cancer (seven women and one man, average age: 55.5 years). The individuals were diagnosed with various types of cancer and had no relapses. Analysed thematically, the results showed two axes, the changes axis (positive, negative and ambivalent changes) and the support axis (emotional and practical support and support adequacy). The results revealed many close links between elements on the two axes. The limitations of the study and future research are also discussed.