Cancer Repercussions on Life Trajectory and Health Promotion: Low-Income Cancer Patients’ Perceptions

Abstract

Objective: To know low-income patients’ perceptions about their trajectory after cancer diagnosis and health promotion actions carried out by them. Methods: This is a descriptive and qualitative study based on conceptual bases of health promotion and quality of life, carried out with low-income cancer patients, over 18 years old, assisted by a Volunteer Center in a municipality in the countryside of Minas Gerais. Recorded semi-structured interviews were used for data collection and the sample was closed using the theoretical saturation technique. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: From data analysis, two themes emerged: Repercussions of cancer on patients’ life trajectory; Health promotion and realignment in ways of living. The reports point out the perceptions about cancer and how it had an impact on ways of living of patients with cancer. Conclusion: Perceptions indicate that the oncological trajectory is hampered by the situation of poverty and that cancer can allow different realignments in patients’ life, such as the search for health promotion. In this scenario, health professionals must recognize the potential of health education, seek to strengthen patient role and carry out actions based on interdisciplinary care practice, in which there is integration of all levels of care.