Fear of cancer recurrence: A study of the experience of survivors of ovarian cancer.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to better understand fear of cancer (FCR) through the experience of ovarian and fallopian tube cancer survivors. METHODS: This study used a descriptive qualitative design. Twelve participants in remission from ovarian or fallopian tube cancer were recruited. Researchers conducted face-to-face, semi-structured interviews and the content, transcribed verbatim, underwent content analysis. RESULTS: FCR has been identified as a significant concern for women in remission from ovarian cancer. Four themes emerged from the participants' FCR experience (a) uncertainty surrounding recurrence; (b) varied beliefs and sources of worry; (c) perceived risk of recurrence; (d) management of FCR. IMPLICATIONS Survivorship support can be optimized by nurses by screening for FCR, offering psychosocial support for women at risk for FCR, teaching and reinforcing adaptive coping strategies.