ArticleBMJ open2024
Coping with cancer pain: a qualitative study to explore pain perception and self-coping strategies of patients with cancer in Sri Lanka.
Article in BMJ open, 2024. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.
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- Multidimensional Recovery Trajectories Throughout Breast Cancer Treatment and Survivorship: A Prospective Longitudinal Study.Current oncology (Toronto, Ont.) · 2026Article
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Abstract
Pain is one of the most debilitating symptoms of cancer, substantially diminishing one's quality of life. The level of pain experienced is eventually determined by the pain coping strategies adopted by patients individually. The awareness of the 'self-coping methods of pain' of individual patients would be beneficial for the multidisciplinary pain team to consider such methods when planning future interventions to manage pain.
objectivesThis study explores the pain perception and coping strategies used by patients with cancer pain in Sri Lanka.
designA descriptive qualitative study.
settingPain management unit, Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama, Sri Lanka.
participantsThe study was conducted among purposively selected patients with cancer and registered at the pain management unit. 21 semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation. Data were analysed using Graneheim and Lundman's content analysis method.
resultsMost participants were between 51 and 60 years old and identified as Sinhalese Buddhists. The study's findings revealed two subthemes under 'Understanding pain', namely 'Physical and emotional impact' and 'Cultural and spiritual interpretations', and five subthemes under 'Coping strategies for living with pain', namely 'Medication and self-control', 'Seeking spiritual support', 'Receiving social support', 'Exploring alternative treatments' and 'Adapting daily life'.
conclusionCoping strategies were adopted especially in achieving essential life aspirations and participating in preferred activities. Goals or activities were often adjusted to fall within their health limits. Acceptance and progress in life were considered more important than pain control. We recommend giving due consideration to the 'self-coping strategies' of individual patients in designing interventions to mitigate cancer pain.
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