Mesothelioma from the Patient’s Perspective

Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America. Volume 19, Issue 6, Pages 1175-1190 (December 2005). [Link].

Clayson H, Seymour J, Noble B.

Hospice of St. Mary of Furness, Ford Park, Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 7JP, UK; University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.

Abstract

This study reports findings from qualitative semi-structured interviews with 15 patients who suffered from mesothelioma. The results are described under four headings that reflect the main themes that arose from the data: coping with symptoms (particularly breathlessness and pain), finding out about mesothelioma and its implications, the trauma of medical interventions, and psychosocial issues. The results illustrate the severe disease burden that is borne by people who have mesothelioma. It is hoped that a greater understanding of mesothelioma from a patient’s perspective could inform the response of health care professionals.