Expressions of loss of adulthood in the narratives of people with colorectal cancer.
The diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer entail detailed discussions of bodily functions, invasive procedures, and a reorientation of life around bowel habit. Furthermore, people with stomas undergo a second experience of toilet training in adulthood. For these reasons, colorectal cancer is sometimes considered an embarrassing disease. Narrative interviews with colorectal cancer patients indicate the inadequacy of the concept of embarrassment in describing the loss of dignity, privacy, independence, and sexual confidence as well as a compromised ability to work, travel, and socialize. The link between bowel control and the constitution of adult identity must be acknowledged if health professionals and carers are to offer the most appropriate forms of information and support to people affected by colorectal cancer.
Rozmovits
Linda
L
Department of Primary Health Care, University of Oxford, United Kingdom.
Ziebland
Sue
S
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001828:Body Image; D015179:Colorectal Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology*; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D026684:Personal Autonomy; D018907:Privacy; D012649:Self Concept; D018434:Sickness Impact Profile