“People Give Opinions, but the Decision Belongs to the Patient”: Examining Cancer Treatment Decisions Among Latinos/as in Central Florida

Abstract

Latinos/as, the fastest-growing ethnic group in the United States, experience high cancer rates. Factors contributing to treatment decisions among Latinos diagnosed with cancer must be studied. This paper aims to identify treatment decisions among Latinos with cancer and examine factors influencing these decisions. A qualitative exploratory study using semi-structured interviews of 60 Latino/as diagnosed with cancer was conducted. Close-ended responses were analyzed using percentages and frequency distributions, while open-ended responses were analyzed using open coding and thematic categorization. Surgery was the most commonly chosen treatment among participants because it was perceived as providing the highest chance of prolonging life. Only 57% of participants were provided with treatment options. Latinos/as typically prefer modest, paternalistic patient–physician relationships. Therefore, providing culturally appropriate information is valuable. This study underscores the need for health providers to present all available treatment options to enhance cancer treatment outcomes

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