Fear of Cancer Recurrence and Coping Strategies among Prostate Cancer Survivors: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), as a commonly reported problem among prostate cancer survivors, has not been fully understood. This study aimed to explore the experience of FCR and relevant coping strategies among Iranian prostate cancer survivors. Methods: Qualitative research was conducted on 13 men who completed treatments for prostate cancer in the last 24 months. The participants were selected through purposeful sampling, and in-depth semi-structured interviews were used for data collection. Conventional content analysis was used for data analysis. Results: Data analysis led to the emergence of three themes. “Living with insecurity” describes the participants’ experiences regarding what triggers FCR with two categories, including “fear of incomplete cure” and “fear of cancer return.” In addition, “struggling to cope” with two categories, including “psychological strategies” and “spiritual coping,” presents coping strategies used by the participants for reducing FCR. Furthermore, “trying to prevent cancer recurrence” with two categories, “seeking health” and “lifestyle modification,” indicates coping strategies used by the participants to prevent cancer recurrence. Conclusions: Healthcare providers need to consider the cultural characteristics of prostate cancer survivors when assessing their FCR, encourage them to disclose their concerns and fears, and provide tailored interventions in order to reduce FCR among them.