Abstract

Background: Researchers are frequently using open-ended questions at the end of questionnaires that invite respondents to add, in their own words, further information about issues covered in the questionnaire. The aim of this study was to present the qualitative findings from the further information section at the end of a questionnaire that was designed to collect data on aspects of self-management in people affected by cancer.

Methods: Respondents were asked: ‘Thinking about how you manage your health and health care, if there is anything else you would like to tell us about your experience, please write in the box below.’ Free-text responses were analysed thematically.

Results: 128 participants completed the free-text response at the end of the questionnaire. The main overarching theme was the concept of the participants “moving on” from cancer and developing a meaningful life for themselves following diagnosis and treatment. For most, this incorporated making adjustments to their physical, social, psychological, spiritual and emotional wellbeing. “Luck” was another overwhelming theme where many participants stated they were “glad to still be alive” and “consider myself very lucky.” Participants reported adjustments made to health behaviours such as leading an active lifestyle and making changes to their diet and nutrition. The final theme incorporates the participants identifying their main sources of support, both clinical and non-clinical, some of which they stated “could not have done it without them.”

Conclusions: The findings highlight the valuable insight that free-text comments can add as a data source at the end of self-completion questionnaires with people affected by cancer.