Abstract
Objectives
People living with HIV (PLWH) have increased risk for cancer and worse cancer-specific survival. We explored the emotional burden of cancer and HIV as a potential driver of cancer mortality.
Research Approach
Semi-structured qualitative interviews with PLWH and cancer.
Participants
27 PLWH who had either completed cancer treatment, were currently undergoing treatment, or experienced challenges in completing treatment.
Methodological Approach
An inductive qualitative approach using the constant comparative method.
Findings
Participants drew strong parallels between being diagnosed with HIV and cancer. Many described HIV-related stigma that hindered social support. Cancer treatment side effects were a major challenge, impacting treatment adherence for both cancer and HIV.
Implications for Psychosocial Providers
There is a need for convenient, affordable, and visible services to support PLHIV as they navigate cancer care. Services should be tailored to the unique needs of this population by addressing HIV-related stigma, building social support, and fostering resilience.
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge Bijal Shah, MS from the Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, for her assistance in study recruitment and the Duke Center for AIDS Research Community Advisory Board (CFAR CAB) for their assistance in developing and piloting the study interview guide and interpreting the findings.
Author contributions
All authors meet ICMJE criteria for inclusion. BK, KC, MW, and GS contributed to study design, data collection, data analysis, data interpretation and writing. EC and NH contributed to data analysis, data interpretation and writing. SC and JC contributed to study design, ethical and regulatory support and manuscript review. JC and PU contributed to data interpretation and manuscript review.
Disclosure statement
The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.