Trail of acceptance: the experiences and perspectives of chemotherapy adherence among adolescents with cancer

Chemotherapy adherence is crucial for adolescents with cancer. However, their lived experiences and perspectives on adherence are understudied. Understanding these experiences is vital to improving support systems and addressing emotional and psychological challenges during treatment. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences and perspectives of adolescents undergoing chemotherapy. This study employed a descriptive phenomenology approach guided by Colaizzi’s method. Purposive sampling was used to select adolescents undergoing chemotherapy. Data were collected through individual semi-structured interviews from 2022 to 2023 and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method, supported by NVivo 10 for data management. Adolescents had varying perceptions of their cancer diagnosis, often experiencing emotional distress, which influenced their chemotherapy adherence. The physical and emotional side effects of treatment were significant barriers to adherence. Support from healthcare providers, family, and peers played a crucial role in helping adolescents manage their illness and remain committed to treatment. Mental health management emerged as a key factor in improving adherence. Healthcare providers must adopt a patient-centered approach that addresses emotional distress, practical challenges, and the critical role of support systems in enhancing adolescents’ chemotherapy adherence.