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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Grant McGeechan
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Introduction – Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK, with more than 37,000 new cases diagnosed annually. Currently 2 in 3 adults diagnosed with cancer can survive for 5 years or more, while this should be celebrated, cancer survivorship can pose psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, and fears about the future. Future disorientation (FD - inability to make future plans) has received little attention in the oncology literature, with most studies focussing on female survivors; therefore it is important to gain a better understanding of the prevalence of FD. The main aim of this study is to look for gender differences in FD in colorectal cancer survivors, it is important to look for these differences as little is known about male cancer survivors’ experience of FD. If FD is a major problem amongst cancer survivors then the next stage of this study would be to look at potential interventions to decrease FD. Methods – Two male and two female participants were recruited for semi-structured interviews in the North-East of England between December 2011 and January 2012. Participants were interviewed in their homes; questions were designed to uncover what impact a cancer diagnosis had had on their lives since they finished treatment and whether or not they display signs of FD. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysis will be conducted using IPA. Participants will be interviewed again between June and July 2012 to see if FD persists over time.Results - Some gender differences expected in levels of FDStage - First phase of interviews transcribed, due to begin second interviews in June 2012.Discussion - If FD is prevalent it is hoped this work can form the basis of a larger study to develop a tool for measuring FD.
Author(s): McGeechan G, Roberts K, Rao S, McPherson K
Publication type: Conference Proceedings (inc. Abstract)
Publication status: Unpublished
Conference Name: Psychology Postgraduate Affairs Group Annual Conference
Year of Conference: 2012
Publisher: Psychology Postgraduate Affairs Group
