Nurul Asyiqin Mohamed Halim

• MBBS (NUMed Malaysia)
• Influence on Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) Following Cancer: A Literature Review

‘Post-traumatic growth’ (PTG) refers to positive consequences that can arise after experiencing a traumatic event, such as a cancer diagnosis (e.g. strengthening of relationships). PTG happens when someone reflects on their experiences and looks for meaning in them. Researchers at the Institute of Health & Society (IHS) have previously investigated PTG in survivors of head and neck cancer and found that these positive changes are related to better quality-of-life. However, what influences whether someone experiences PTG is not known. If we better understood this, it would help develop “interventions” (packages of support) to improve quality-of-life following cancer.

Some studies have involved speaking to people about their experiences of living with cancer (qualitative research). Such studies can shed light on how PTG develops and why some people experience this more than others. This project will identify and summarise qualitative studies to better understand what helps or hinders PTG in cancer survivors.

Funding source: Newcastle University

Project supervisors: Dr Fiona Menger and Professor Linda Sharp