Esophageal cancer poses challenges to all domains of wellbeing. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of esophageal cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, with a view to informing the health education needs of this group. Eighteen persons who had undergone an esophagectomy participated in one of four audio-taped focus groups in a specialist hospital for cancer care. Transcriptions were analyzed thematically. Fear and uncertainty underpinned all stages of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Participants emphasized: (a) a lack of understanding over what to expect throughout treatment and recovery; (b) the demanding and traumatic period of adjustment required as a result of changes to their physical, psychological, and social functioning; and, (c) that support provided by family, friends, and acquaintances was variable and uninformed, often to the point of being counterproductive to physical and psychosocial recovery. Tailored education is needed to enable patients to prepare for each stage of their cancer journey. Equally, families and wider social networks should receive education that enables them to provide esophageal cancer survivors with appropriate support. Education should be provided at intervals that enable patients, survivors, and support networks to prepare for the physical, emotional, and social challenges experienced during diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
Keywords: cancer diagnosis; cancer treatment; education needs; esophageal cancer; patient education; qualitative; rehabilitation.