Cancer survivor identity and quality of life.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this article is to propose a framework for enhancing an understanding of quality of life among cancer survivors that takes into account individuals' subjective experiences and attributions of self as they relate to their own experience with cancer.


BACKGROUND
This review of a small yet burgeoning cancer survivorship literature posits that there is room to expand the theoretical context for understanding cancer and its impact on quality of life by assuming that the experience of cancer involves changes in social roles and identity. In turn, changes in the way cancer survivors see themselves in relation to the world, including the ability to carry out roles and responsibilities, may affect quality of life. This perspective suggests that a cancer diagnosis initiates a survival trajectory and a social role that extends over the remainder of one's life, regardless of life expectancy.


CONCLUSIONS
Expanding the understanding of quality of life and the factors that contribute to it should help subsequent investigations of who might benefit from which psychosocial support interventions provided when (i.e., during early diagnostic stage, treatment stage, or both or in the long term). Equipped with this understanding, clinicians and agencies providing services to cancer survivors and their families can develop appropriate supportive interventions that facilitate and enhance quality of life.
Zebrack
B J
BJ
UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Cancer Prevention and Control Research, UCLA School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1752, USA.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001294:Attitude to Health; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008017:Life Expectancy; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D011788:Quality of Life; D012649:Self Concept; D012803:Sick Role; D012944:Social Support; D017741:Survivors / Q000523:psychology*