Cancer survivorship: evolutionary concept analysis

Abstract

Aim: This paper is a report of a concept analysis of cancer survivorship in adults.

Background: The concept of cancer survivorship appears frequently in cross-discipline literature but does not seem to have any precise definition or meaning. Substantive research into the experience of surviving cancer is long overdue. However, if a concept has not been clearly defined any theoretical work based on that concept will also be unclear.

Data sources: The analysis was based on literature published in English between 1994 and 2006 (n = 43) and seminal work in the field.

Review methods: Rodgers' method of evolutionary concept analysis was used, allowing the concept to be viewed within a sociocultural and temporal context and capturing both lay and emic perspectives.

Results: Cancer survivorship in adults is a process beginning at diagnosis and involving uncertainty. It is a life-changing experience with a duality of positive and negative aspects, and is unique to the individual but has some universality. The primary antecedent is a cancer diagnosis and the consequences can be divided into four main themes: physical health, psychological health, social health and spiritual health.

Conclusion: Surviving cancer is now an established reality for millions of people worldwide. Nurses can benefit from a deeper understanding of the patient experience, both theoretically and in practice. Clarification of a concept provides a heuristic for further inquiry and a basis for theory generation.