Experiences of adult patients with cancer at a specialized cancer care facility in Uganda

Abstract

Background: The experiences of adult cancer patients in low-income countries regarding health care and infrastructure are largely undocumented. This study aimed to describe the experiences of adult men and women receiving treatment at a specialized cancer facility in Uganda. Method: Thirty-two adult patients with cancer (≥18 years) with varying cancer diagnoses participated in 5 focus group discussions and a key informant interview at Uganda's specialized oncology facility. The interactions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: The participants had both advanced and early stage cancers of varying ages (19–79 years). Four themes emerged: the Organization of care, Personal challenges, Mental suffering, and Satisfaction with care. The Organization of Care theme included categories describing rough sleep, poor food supply, inadequate facilities, and drug shortages. Personal challenges include high treatment costs and delays in accessing care. Mental suffering comprises of 4 categories: stigma, isolation, abandonment, and emotional distress. Satisfaction with care included improve health outcomes and professionalism. Conclusion: Participants predominantly reported negative experiences, whereas those with early-stage disease primarily emphasized positive experiences. Nurses must heighten their awareness of cancer and its treatment, cultivate empathy, and engage positively with both patients and their families. Further research on healthcare professionals' experiences regarding cancer care is needed to understand cancer care in Uganda comprehensively.