Lung Cancer Stigma across the Social Network: Patient and Caregiver Perspectives

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To examine the personal experiences of people with lung cancer and their caregivers and how stigma is manifested throughout a patient's social network. METHODS: A qualitative thematic analysis of interviews with 28 patients with lung cancer and their caregivers was conducted. Telephone interviews were conducted and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis was guided by contemporary stigma theory. RESULTS: Patients and caregivers reported feeling high levels of felt stigma and concomitant psychological distress in response to the diagnosis of lung cancer. Three overarching themes emerged: the nexus of lung cancer and smoking, moralization, and attacking the link between lung cancer and ..