The experiences of young adults with Hodgkin lymphoma transitioning to survivorship: A grounded theory study

Abstract

Purpose/Objectives: To explore the experiences of young adults with Hodgkin lymphoma during the first year following the end of initial treatment. Research Approach: A qualitative grounded theory study. Setting: Interviews with patients recruited from three cancer centers in England. Participants: 10 Hodgkin lymphoma survivors (four men and six women aged 21-39 years) recruited as part of a larger study of 28 young adult cancer survivors. Methodologic Approach: Semistructured interviews were conducted about two months after treatment completion, and follow-up interviews were conducted seven months later. The authors' grounded theory of positive psychosocial adjustment to cancer provided the conceptual framework. Findings: Positive reframing, informal peer support, acceptance, and normalization helped young adults dismantle the threats of Hodgkin lymphoma during the course of treatment. However, they described losing a sense of security following treatment completion. Greater age-specific information to enable better preparation for the future was desired regarding body image, fertility, sexual relationships, work, and socializing. Conclusions: Informal support mechanisms, like peer support and patient navigator interventions, may be useful ways to further support young adults after treatment completion. Intepretation: Positive psychosocial adjustment to cancer survivorship in young adults is facilitated by having informal peer support; being able to positively reframe, accept, and normalize their experience; and being prepared for the future.