Understanding the Multifaceted Challenges Faced by Patients Receiving Radiation Therapy: A Focus on Emotional, Social, and Physical Health Problems

Objectives Radiation therapy is considered an essential component of cancer management, and approximately 50% of all cancer patients undergo this therapy during their course of treatment. This study aimed to understand the patient-reported experience of emotional, social, and physical health problems during radiation therapy. Material and Methods A descriptive survey design was adopted to assess the perceived emotional, social, and physical health problems among patients (n = 82) receiving radiation therapy conducted at a tertiary care hospital in South India. Data were collected using demographic, clinical proforma, and Nottingham health profiles. Results The study results showed that an equal percentage (37.8%) of study participants were 31–40 years and 41–50 years old. Most participants were males (62.2%) and married (65.9%). The age of onset of cancer for most (65.9%) participants was between 36 and 45 years (31.7%). Most (45.1%) had stage 2 cancer. About 79.3% didn't have a history of cancer in their family. The patients reported that their present health status, living with cancer and its treatment, affected their work (56.1%), home making (72%), social life (78%), home life (97.6%), sex life (46.3%), interests/hobbies (42.7%), and vacations (13.4%). Conclusion This study revealed that patients receiving radiation therapy experience significant emotional, social, and physical health problems, including anxiety, depression, social isolation, fatigue, and pain. These challenges adversely impact their overall quality of life, highlighting the need for comprehensive psychosocial support services to improve well-being during and after the treatment period.