Concerns and Fear of Esophageal Cancer in Relatives of Patients with Cancer: a Qualitative Study

Introduction Due to its complications and mortality, cancer is a vital public health problem and one of the most frightening diseases, and its development causes a sense of risk, problems, and discomforts for all, including family of patients. The aim of this study was to elaborate on the concerns and fear of esophageal cancer in relatives with cancer illness. Methods Using a content analysis approach, this qualitative study was carried out in Golestan, North of Iran, in 2018. Participants were one of the family members of a patient with esophageal cancer who were selected purposefully. Data were collected using semi-structured and deep interviews and continued until data saturation was achieved. Twenty-three participants were interviewed. Interviews were transcribed line by line and were coded and categorized, and concepts were extracted accordance with qualitative content analysis approach, using MAXQDA 11 software. Result Following data analysis on the concerns and fear of cancer among relatives of patients, the main themes “fear of social consequences,” “fear of treatment consequences,” “fear of psychological consequences,” “cancer phobia,” “concern about lack of information on the disease,” “fear of disease reactions,” and “fear of disease-related changes” were extracted. Conclusions Family of patients with esophageal cancer were afraid of disease-induced consequences and lack of knowledge about the disease. Through educating people about the symptoms of the disease, we can reduce their fears and empower them for self-caring and preventing cancer.