The experience of health-related quality of life in extended and permanent cancer survivors: a qualitative systematic review

Objective: This qualitative systematic review aims to synthesize qualitative evidencefrom primary studies on experiencing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) inextended and permanent cancer survivors.Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, CINAHL,LILACS, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. It followed guidelines from thestatement in the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of QualitativeResearch (ENTREQ). A quality appraisal of each study was undertaken using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Data synthesis was conducted according to the the-matic synthesis approach. Confidence in each review finding was assessed using theConfidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research (Grade-CERQual).Results: Twenty-four studies from nine countries were selected for the final sample.Analysis of the studies' results allowed for the construction of nine descriptivethemes that were interpreted into three analytical themes: "The body as a represen-tation of HRQoL," "Living through and beyond cancer: the re-signification ofHRQoL," and "Employing resources to improve HRQoL." According to the CERQualapproach, moderate confidence estimations were achieved for the results.Conclusions: The themes reflect that the HRQoL experience is re-signified by survivors from the privilege of being alive. This process happens with the support of socialresources, family, hope, and spirituality. Based on the findings, it is suggested thathealth staff should be able to recognize the impact that cancer survival has onHRQoL and develop a care plan that addresses needs to sustain health in these survivors.