Newly diagnosed oncology patients' perceptions of 'hope to cure': a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND

In oncology, hope and cure are deeply linked. Hope helps patients endure treatment uncertainty, while cure remains the ultimate goal. Yet cancer diagnosis and treatment reshape how patients perceive this link as 'hope for cure'.

AIMS: This study explores how newly diagnosed oncology patients perceive 'hope for cure' during treatment phases.

METHODS

A descriptive qualitative research design was employed. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were carried out with 13 participants, who were chosen through purposive sampling. The collected data were then examined using conventional content analysis.

FINDINGS: Four main categories and were identified labeled as 'embracing independence', 'revolutionising mindset', 'support network' and 'nurturing self-belief'.

CONCLUSION

This study explores how newly diagnosed cancer patients view 'hope for a cure' through independence, resilience, self-belief and support-showing hope as an active process built through daily experiences, not just medical outcomes.