title: Qualitative research into the symptom experiences of adult cancer patients after treatments: a systematic review and meta-synthesis.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This review paper aimed to draw together the findings of qualitative research into the symptom experience of adult cancer patients in order to develop a better understanding of symptom experiences following cancer treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  Systematic review and meta-synthesis techniques were used to identify, appraise and synthesise the relevant literature.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A thematic account of shared symptom experiences reported across papers is presented. Four main themes are discussed: interaction with health services, changing relationships, changing self and coping. In addition the range of symptoms reported across qualitative cancer research is highlighted.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Unexpected symptoms can have negative effects on patients who need to be better prepared for long-term symptom experiences. In addition, it is important to acknowledge that patients' symptom experiences do not happen in isolation and should be addressed holistically within the context of patients' lives.
authors.affiliation: School of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Work, University of Manchester, University Place, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.
authors.forename: A E
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Bennion
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Molassiotis
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D004417:Dyspnea / Q000209:etiology; D005221:Fatigue / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011788:Quality of Life; D017741:Survivors / Q000523:psychology