Active health behaviors in patients after thyroid cancer surgery: a qualitative study of barriers and facilitators.

AIM: To identify the factors that promote or hinder active health behaviors in patients following thyroid cancer surgery, and to provide evidence to support the development of relevant interventions for this population.

BACKGROUND

In recent decades, the incidence of thyroid cancer has surged globally, nearly doubling in some developed countries. China has similarly witnessed an upward trend in thyroid cancer rates. In the management of patients following thyroid cancer surgery, active health behaviors play a pivotal role. Under the current healthcare model, patients' engagement and self-management is the key to improving patients' outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and enhancing public health standards.

METHODS

From May 2025 to August 2025, 15 postoperative thyroid cancer patients hospitalized in the Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery were selected using purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using a phenomenological research approach. Data were analyzed using the Clapazzi's seven-step qualitative data analysis method.

DESIGN

A qualitative descriptive study.

FINDINGS: Promoting factors for active health behaviors mainly included the establishment of disease cognition and health beliefs, motivation from social support systems, positive psychological adaptation, and convenient healthcare systems. Barriers comprised information confusion and cognitive misconceptions, social role conflicts, obstacles in the medical system and communication, lack of intrinsic motivation, and difficulty in maintaining habits.

CONCLUSION

Active health behaviors of postoperative thyroid cancer patients are influenced by multiple factors. This study provides evidence-based support for developing targeted strategies-such as psychological intervention, health education programs, and follow-up system optimization, to meet patients' needs and improve their quality of life.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND PATIENT CARE: Healthcare providers should strengthen factors promoting active health behaviors among patients after thyroid cancer surgery and develop targeted support strategies such as psychological interventions and health education programs.

IMPACT: Through multifaceted support, patients can overcome barriers and transition from passive treatment to active health management, thereby promoting postoperative recovery and enhancing quality of life.