PSYLIVED: the Psychological Impacts of Living With an Inherited Colorectal Cancer Predisposition Syndrome

Why? PSYLIVED is a qualitative study that aims to understand the psychological experience of individuals living with inherited colorectal cancer. It addresses the question of how individuals cope emotionally and adapt to the unique challenges they face. This research sheds light on the emotional journey of those with inherited colorectal cancer, potentially leading to improved support services, interventions, and care practices tailored to their needs. The study seeks to enhance the well-being of patients undergoing genetic testing and contribute to better services and support practices. What? PSYLIVED is a qualitative study that will employ reflexive Thematic Analysis methodology to explore the emotional responses and experiences of participants over time. Who? The investigators are interested in interviewing between 30 to 66 individuals who have first-hand experience of being at risk or having an inherited colorectal cancer syndrome. Where? While the study is conducted by the St Mark's Centre for Familial Intestinal Cancer, this study is open to individuals in the UK. Interviews will primarily be conducted via telephone or Microsoft Teams to facilitate accessibility. However, participants residing near London who prefer face-to-face interviews will be offered this option. How? Each participant will take part in a one-hour audio-recorded interview where they will be asked to talk about their experiences. The interview will be recorded, so it can be transcribed word by word. During the transcription, the interview will be anonymised to ensure confidentiality. The responses will then be compared and analysed to create a result summary, along with interviews from other individuals with similar experiences. The study is set to commence in June 2024, with recruitment open for approximately two years.