Experiences of Family of Patient with Newly Diagnosed Advanced Terminal Stage Hepatocellular Cancer

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer and the thirdleading cause of cancer-related death worldwide due to its generally poor prognosis. Caregiver burden for livercancer cases is higher than with other cancer and needs especial attention. <br/><b>Methods</b>: To explore the experiencesof families of patients with newly diagnosed advanced terminal stage hepatocellular cancer by interview. <br/><b>Results</b>:Nine participants were recruited in this study. Content analysis of the interviews revealed four themes: blamingoneself, disrupting the pace of life, searching all possible regimens, and not letting go. <br/><b>Conclusions</b>: This studyprovides new insight into the needs and support of family members especially when they are facing loved oneswith newly diagnosed advanced terminal stage HCC. These results will inform future supportive care servicedevelopment and intervention research aimed at providing assistance in reducing unmet supportive care needsand psychological distress of these family members.