Four Kinds of Hard: An Understanding of Cancer and Death among Latino Community Leaders

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

Marianne R. Congema (Creator)

Sarah J. Hoffman (Creator)

Lee Ann Johnson (Creator)

Kim L. Larson (Creator)

Holly F. Mathews (Creator)

Janet P. Moye (Creator)

Karla M. Murrieta (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Abstract: Early integration of palliative care after a diagnosis of cancer improves outcomes, yet such care for Latino populations is lacking in rural regions of the United States. We used a participatory action research design with Latino community leaders from emerging immigrant communities in North Carolina to explore sociocultural perspectives on cancer and death. Thematic analysis was conceptualized as Four Kinds of Hard represented by four themes: Receiving an Eviction Notice, Getting in the Good Book, Talking is (Sometimes) Taboo, and Seeing Their Pain Makes us Suffer. These themes captured fears of deportation, coping with cancer through faithfulness, ambivalence about advance care planning, and a desire to spare families from suffering. Findings suggest strategies to improve conversations about end-of-life wishes when facing advanced illness and death. This study demonstrates the importance of training Latino community leaders to improve palliative care and bridge service gaps for Latino families living in emerging rural communities.

Additional Information

Publication

Other

Language: English

Date: 2023

Subjects

Southeastern United States;Cancer;hispanic people;palliative care;participatory action research;Latino

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