Help seeking for cancer symptoms: a review of the literature.
OBJECTIVE
To define help seeking and identify a theoretical framework to explain the help-seeking process of patients with self-discovered cancer symptoms.


METHODS
Literature published in English from 1998-2008.


RESULTS
Findings highlighted gender's role in help-seeking behavior. Delayed help seeking for cancer symptoms was common, with many associated influencing factors. To date, research on intentions to seek help has facilitated the development of health-promotion programs that target those who are likely to delay.


CONCLUSIONS
Help seeking was defined as a response to health changes as well as a part of the broader process of health-seeking behavior. Reviewed frameworks and models provided knowledge and understanding about help-seeking behavior in various contexts. However, an all-encompassing framework explaining the entire process was not identified.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses are in a unique position to promote prompt help seeking for patients with self-discovered cancer symptoms. Gaining clarity on the concept and identifying a theoretical framework may help nurses understand the complex nature of help seeking in patients with self-discovered cancer symptoms.
O'Mahony
Mairin
M
School of Nursing and Midwifery in the Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College in Cork, Ireland. mairin.omahony@ucc.ie
Hegarty
Josephine
J
D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology*; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology*