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Daily Living and Healthcare Experiences of Individuals Living with Desmoid-Type Fibromatosis: A Qualitative Investigation
,
Catherine Coyle,
Olga Husson ,
Kim Dienes ,
Rachael Powell
European Journal of Cancer Care, Volume: 2023, Pages: 1 - 8
Swansea University Author:
Kim Dienes
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© 2023 Megan Bowes et al. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
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DOI (Published version): 10.1155/2023/9756000
Abstract
Objective. Desmoid-type fibromatosis (DF), a rare benign tumour with similar treatment options to cancer, can adversely impact people’s lives, yet little qualitative research addressing patients’ experiences of DF exists. The present study aimed to understand the day-to-day experiences of individual...
| Published in: | European Journal of Cancer Care |
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| ISSN: | 1365-2354 |
| Published: |
Hindawi Limited
2023
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| Online Access: |
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| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa66149 |
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| Abstract: |
Objective. Desmoid-type fibromatosis (DF), a rare benign tumour with similar treatment options to cancer, can adversely impact people’s lives, yet little qualitative research addressing patients’ experiences of DF exists. The present study aimed to understand the day-to-day experiences of individuals with DF and their experiences of healthcare. Methods. Semistructured, qualitative interviews were conducted by phone or email with 20 participants. Inductive thematic analysis was performed, structured with the Framework approach. Results. Many participants reported delays in diagnosis. This was attributed to them ignoring their symptoms or to healthcare professionals lacking awareness of DF. Healthcare experiences varied, with some participants expressing good support. Others felt unsupported, viewing staff as dismissive of difficulties. Comparisons between DF and cancer were commonly discussed. Some participants felt relieved that they did not have cancer; others perceived that their needs were secondary to cancer patients and believed they were treated as less important. Participants discussed negative impact of DF on psychosocial well-being. Chronic pain and activity limitations seemed to impact mood and relationships. Conclusion. Greater awareness and understanding of DF by health professionals may help to reduce diagnostic delay and improve support. Individuals may benefit from being treated by specialist DF teams. |
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| College: |
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences |
| Start Page: |
1 |
| End Page: |
8 |