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Cancer patients and survivors experience eight primary social relationship challenges, including interpersonal strain from excessive pity, difficulties in disclosing information, perceived gaps in social support, social isolation, stigma, and marital difficulties. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.SYNTHESIS. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

October 29, 2025BMC Psychology4 citationsOpen Access

Social relationship challenges perceived by cancer patients and survivors: a qualitative meta-synthesis

BZBahare ZareiIsfahan University of Medical Sciences AKAshraf KazemiIsfahan University of Medical Sciences MBMasoud BahramiIsfahan University of Medical Sciences

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Abstract

BACKGROUND: A cancer diagnosis can significantly disrupt patients' social lives, leading to strained relationships and increased social isolation. Many encounter uneasy interactions or feel judged by others, amplifying loneliness and a sense of exclusion. While existing research has predominantly focused on clinical outcomes, the social relationship challenges faced by cancer patients have not been fully explored. Consequently, this study aims to synthesize qualitative studies that examine the social relationship experiences of cancer patients and survivors, offering a deeper insight into this important aspect of their lives. METHODS: This study employed a qualitative meta-synthesis approach. A comprehensive search for relevant articles was conducted across international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct) and national databases (SID, Noormags, Magiran). Qualitative studies published in English or Persian in peer-reviewed journals with full-text availability and that focused on the patient perspective were included. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist for qualitative research was used to evaluate study quality. The qualitative meta-synthesis was conducted utilizing a thematic synthesis approach as outlined by Thomas and Harden (2008). RESULTS: Twenty qualitative studies involving 396 participants from diverse countries employed a variety of data collection and analytical methods. The analysis identified eight key themes. These themes include interpersonal strain due to excessive pity and misplaced sympathy, difficulties in disclosing information, challenges in seeking support, perceived gaps in social support, social isolation and reintegration challenges, understanding stigma and rejection, marital and intimate challenges during illness, and practical assistance requirements. CONCLUSION: This review provides comprehensive insights into the social relationship challenges experienced by cancer patients and survivors, offering valuable information for the development of targeted interventions to address these challenges.

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