Ethnic Differences in Cancer Pain Experience

Aims: The study findings on ethnic differences in cancer pain experience tended to be inconsistent: some reported certain ethnic differences while others reported no difference at all. The purpose of the study was to explore commonalities and differences in cancer pain experience of four major ethnic groups in the U.S. (Whites, Hispanics, African-Americans, and Asians) using the feminist approach by Hall and Stevens.

Methods: This study was a qualitative online forum among 29 White, 16 Hispanic, 11 African American, and 27 Asian cancer patients recruited through Internet and community settings. Nine topics related to cancer pain experience were used to guide the 6-month online forum. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results: Across the ethnic groups, the participants complained about difficulties in communicating with health care providers although the reasons for the communication difficulties were different according to ethnic group. All ethnic groups reported changes in their perspectives and attitudes toward their life after the diagnosis of cancer. While ethnic minorities tended to try to live a normal life and use natural modalities for pain management, Whites tended to search for diverse ways of pain management strategies. Whites were more concerned about controlling their pain and treatment process while ethnic minorities tended to minimize and normalize their pain. Finally, Whites' cancer pain experience was individualized experience while ethnic minorities' cancer pain experience was family experience.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that health care providers use culturally competent approaches to cancer pain management while considering ethnic differences in cancer pain experience.