Examining the impact of cancer treatment on personhood: A participatory research investigation into the unique experiences of lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals

Purpose

Cancer incidence is growing in the UK population and will affect half of all individuals in their lifetime, with most new diagnoses occurring over the age of 60 years old. Despite legal reforms and liberation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning (LGBTQ) people's rights in recent years, many LGBTQ people affected by cancer will have faced significant societal discrimination in their lives. The aim of this research was to explore how cancer treatment impacts on the personhood of LGB people, and to increase understanding of social issues specific to this community.

Methods

Underpinned by person-centred principles and Critical Social Theory, a community-based participatory inquiry was carried out with nine LBG people who had been affected by cancer. In two subsequent sessions, participants created an identity map and then reflected on how cancer and care experiences had impacted their identity. Initially, content analysis of transcripts was informed by Mezirow's perspective transformation, followed by inductive thematic analysis within each data framework category. Participants were invited to provide feedback on the identified themes.

Results

The processes of coming out and facing a cancer diagnosis emerged as significant crises, leading to personal transformation. Factors such as past experiences of homophobia, duration of being openly out, and confidence in embracing altered identities influence interactions with healthcare providers and the level of support received.

Conclusions

This research makes a unique contribution by shedding light on the unreported support needs of LGB individuals affected by cancer, suggesting the need for additional assistance.