Couples’ experiences when both partners have or have had cancer

Background: In the healthcare system, there is a growing expectation that partners serve as resources for the patient. However, when both partners in a couple have cancer, it can introduce unique challenges that affect them individually and as a dyad, potentially compromising their ability to support one another. Yet, to our knowledge, research on this topic is scarce. This study aims to investigate experiences of couples dealing with cancer in both partners, focusing on their relationship dynamics and dyadic coping.<br/>Methodology: We conducted semi-structured interviews with four opposite-sex couples where both partners either were living with cancer or had previously had cancer. Participants were 46-81 years old, diagnosed with cancer 2-11 years ago and recruited through a rehabilitation research center in Denmark. We used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. <br/>Results: The analysis revealed three main themes: <br/>(1) Fear and Distress: Couples grappled with profound fears, worries, and distress, significantly impacting their lives. The fear of losing their partner was particularly pronounced. <br/>(2) Relationship Changes: Couples experienced declines in their sex life and described this as a loss. Yet, they accepted these changes and noted a continued or even enhanced closeness, which they attributed to their strong relationship before cancer.<br/>(3) Joint Navigation: Couples generally viewed each other’s cancer diagnoses as shared concerns and managed many challenges together. Yet, they also described how their own illness and late effects at times limited their ability to fully engage in their partner’s cancer trajectory and provide sufficient care. <br/>Conclusion: A cancer diagnosis in both partners appears to intensify certain challenges and introduce complexities in dyadic coping. A strong couple relationship may be a resource for couples to jointly navigate the cancer trajectories. Researchers and clinicians may use this knowledge to develop interventions that can support couples in effectively coping with these additional challenges.<br/>