Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer patients face a four-fold higher suicide risk than the general US population. This study explores psychosocial aspects of GI cancer patient experiences, assessing suicidal ideation and behavior, mental distress during treatment phases, and psychosocial factors on mental health. Methods: A two-phase mixed-methods approach involved a web-based survey and follow-up interviews. Quantitative data analysis validated mental health and suicidal ideation constructs, and correlation analyses were performed. The patient journey was charted from diagnosis to treatment. Results: Two hundred and two individuals participated, with 76 from the rural Appalachian region and 78 undergoing treatments. Quantitative analysis showed a higher prevalence of passive suicidal ideation than active planning. The post-treatment recovery period was the most emotionally challenging. Qualitative data emphasized emotional support and vulnerability to isolation. Care quality concerns included individualized treatment plans and better communication. Patients also needed clear, comprehensive information about treatment and side effects. The in-depth interview with four GI cancer patients revealed a healthcare system prioritizing expedient treatment over comprehensive care, lacking formal psychological support. AI emerged as a promising avenue for enhancing patient understanding and treatment options. Conclusions: Our research advocates for a patient-centric model of care, enhanced by technology and empathetic communication.
背景：胃肠道癌症患者的自杀风险是美国普通人群的四倍。本研究探讨了胃肠道癌症患者经历中的心理社会因素，评估了自杀意念与行为、治疗阶段的心理困扰以及心理社会因素对心理健康的影响。方法：采用两阶段混合方法，包括一项网络调查和后续访谈。通过定量数据分析验证了心理健康与自杀意念的结构，并进行了相关性分析。研究绘制了患者从诊断到治疗的全过程路径。结果：共有202名参与者，其中76人来自阿巴拉契亚农村地区，78人正在接受治疗。定量分析显示，被动自杀意念的发生率高于主动自杀计划。治疗后恢复期是情绪上最具挑战性的阶段。定性数据强调了情感支持的重要性以及患者易受孤立影响的脆弱性。对护理质量的关切包括个体化治疗方案和更有效的医患沟通。患者还需要关于治疗及副作用的清晰、全面的信息。对四名胃肠道癌症患者的深度访谈揭示了医疗体系更倾向于快速治疗而非全面照护，且缺乏正式的心理支持。人工智能显示出在提升患者对疾病的理解和治疗选择认知方面的潜力。结论：我们的研究倡导建立以患者为中心的护理模式，并通过技术手段与共情沟通加以强化。
肿瘤(癌症)患者之家