Fear of Recurrence Experiences Among Adolescent Cancer Survivors: A Qualitative Study.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore adolescent cancer survivors' experiences of fear of cancer recurrence, its impact on their lives, and the coping mechanisms they adopt to manage this fear.

METHODS

This qualitative study was conducted with 20 adolescent cancer survivors. Individual face-to-face semi-structured interviews were performed to explore adolescents' experiences of fear of cancer recurrence. Interviews were conducted during routine hospital follow-up visits in a private outpatient clinic room. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using content analysis to identify themes related to adolescents' experiences.

RESULTS

The study included 20 adolescents (14 males and 6 females) aged 14 to 17 years, with a mean age of 15.75 ± 1.12 years at the time of interview. Participants were, on average, 13.13 ± 1.92 years old at treatment completion. Three main themes emerged: factors triggering fear of recurrence, psychosocial impact of fear, and coping strategies for fear of recurrence. Triggers included physical symptoms perceived as signs of relapse, medical follow-up visits, and witnessing peers' recurrence or loss. The psychosocial impact theme reflected a persistent psychological burden, lifestyle changes motivated by health concerns, and uncertainty regarding future academic and life plans. Coping strategies included distraction, seeking social support, transforming fear into hope and future goals.

CONCLUSION

Fear of cancer recurrence is a multifaceted experience that influences both daily life and psychological well-being among adolescent cancer survivors. Understanding adolescents' experiences and coping strategies may inform the development of targeted psychosocial interventions during survivorship care.