Perceptions and motivations for healthy lifestyles among first-degree relatives of colorectal cancer patients: A qualitative study

Abstract Background Compelling data indicate that adherence to healthy lifestyles can potentially prevent 20–70% of colorectal cancer (CRC) cases and deaths. As a major population in the development of CRC, the lifestyle behaviour of first-degree relatives (FDRs) of CRC patients is attracting more attention. Objective To understand the knowledge of first-degree relatives (FDRs) about colorectal cancer (CRC) and healthy lifestyles and explore their perceptions of and motivations for healthy lifestyles for CRC prevention. Methods A qualitative descriptive study using inductive thematic analysis was performed. Sixteen FDRs of CRC patients were recruited using purposive sampling. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted to gain insight into FDRs’ perceptions and motivations regarding healthy lifestyles for CRC prevention. Results Limited knowledge of CRC makes FDRs less likely to emphasise the prevention of CRC through a healthy lifestyle. Influenced by the culture of Chinese medicine and life experience, the participants gradually developed a perception of healthy lifestyles with Chinese characteristics. The participants’ ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle was greatly influenced by family duty-related factors. Conclusions Social culture and family duty-related factors should be taken into consideration when undertaking health interventions or education programmes on healthy lifestyles for FDRs of CRC patients. Encouraging nurses to act as liaisons between the government, hospitals, and the community and providing them with professional and communication skills to enhance their skills has great potential for nurses to deliver health education and management for communities at risk of CRC.