Perceptions and health-seeking behaviors of older patients with gastric cancer: a descriptive qualitative study in China

Purpose This study aims to explore the perceptions and health-seeking behaviors of older patients with gastric cancer in China. Design/methodology/approach This study was a descriptive qualitative study. Twelve key informants were purposively recruited. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Each interview was audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcriptions of each key informant were analyzed using the content analysis method. Findings Six themes emerged: (1) illness perceptions – gastric cancer was understood as growth and spread in the body, closely linked to death and viewed as destiny; (2) discomforts – physical discomfort (e.g. pain, dyspepsia, weight loss, black stool and sensory changes) and psychological discomfort (e.g. fear, sadness, worry, loneliness and guilt) were perceived; (3) coping style – self-regulation and active cooperation with treatment alongside family and professional support; (4) hospital and doctor selection – influenced by hospital qualifications, specialist expertise, acquaintances’ recommendations and accessibility; (5) difficulty in seeking medical treatment – resource constraints, costs, complex procedures and limited digital or health literacy; and (6) seeking health information – reliance on professionals and family due to low health literacy. Practical implications The health-care team should enhance communication and education, simplify care procedures and provide individualized psychological and informational support. Strengthening family engagement and accessible health education can promote earlier help-seeking and improve continuity of care. Originality/value Perceptions and health-seeking behaviors among older patients were a critical point, as they confronted discomfort and difficulty in dealing with their health problems. These issues may stem from interrelated cultural, emotional and health education support system barriers that influence their health-seeking behaviors.