Abstract
Previous research suggests that sociodemographic characteristics as well as social environment assessment of individual social capital can support cancer survivorship. It is in this context that the current study was undertaken. The aim of this study was to explore the social capital of Hong Kong Chinese who live with a diagnosis of cancer. An exploratory analysis was undertaken of 20 patients diagnosed with cancer in the Queen Mary Hospital in Hong Kong and undergoing treatment. After informed consent, participants underwent a semi-structured psychosocial assessment, conducted by a social worker. Themes relevant to their cancer experience were explored, within their individual psychosocial context. Qualitative data was recorded within an Eco-Map framework and analyzed employing a Thematic Network Analysis model. The major themes identified within this sample included financial concerns, interpersonal relationships, and existential meaning. Cultural beliefs were found to be a major protective factor, as were supportive and caring interpersonal relationships. This exploratory analysis has demonstrated the importance of including social capital as an integral part of the approach to the patient experience and the importance of the concept of cancer survivorship in a culturally relevant context.
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