Lesbian Cancer Voices
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A queer feminist narrative inquiry into the lived experience of being lesbian with cancer
IRAS ID
165782
Contact name
Paula Kuzbit
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Canterbury Christ Church University
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
2015-NURSING-02, East Kent University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust R and D
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 2 months, 17 days
Research summary
Cancer is an extremely common disease affecting 1 in 3 of the UK population. However there have been very few research studies that have explored this illness from the perspective of women who identify as lesbian, even though there is growing evidence that this group of women may be at higher than average risk of developing some cancers. This study “Lesbian Cancer Voices” aims to explore the experiences of women (transgender or cisgender), who identify as lesbian, who have been diagnosed with cancer in order to better understand their journey through this emotionally and physically challenging illness. In gaining this understanding it is hoped that health care professionals can be better equipped to support this minority group effectively.
This study wishes to recruit 10 to 15 English speaking women over the age of 18, who self-identify as lesbian or gay, who have been diagnosed with cancer in the last 10 years, or are currently being treated for cancer. Participants will be invited to participate in a one to one focused interview that will explore their experiences of being lesbian and their experiences of having cancer. Participants will also be invited to comment on their interview transcript and a summary of the narrative analysis findings.
This study aims to recruit participants from Great Britain. Women will be informed of the study in a variety of ways including information from their Clinical Nurse Specialist, via Cancer and LGBT support groups and through print and social media. The interviews will take place at a mutually convenient location including the participant’s normal place of residence.This study is being undertaken to fulfil the requirements of a PhD in Health and Social Care. The study will last approximately 3 years however participant involvement will not be longer than 18 months.
REC name
West Midlands - Edgbaston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/WM/0141
Date of REC Opinion
5 May 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion