Applying the PEN-3 cultural model to explore and improve cancer survivorship in Black and Latinx people in the US

Background: Culture is important as it influences how survivors navigate micro (e.g. interpersonal relationships, social networks) and macro systems (e.g. healthcare system, society) in their everyday lives. This study applied a sociocultural lens, using the PEN-3 cultural model, to explore experiences of Black and Latinx cancer survivors and their families with the aim of identifying recommendations to improve cancer survivorship experience. Methods: We used qualitative descriptive design. A total of 17 (4 men and 13 women) cancer survivors 50 years or older (Mean age = 63.9 years) were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Afterwards, we conducted six focus group discussions (three Latinx and three Black groups) with a total of 33 caregivers of cancer survivors (Mean age = 63 years). All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a hybrid of inductive-deductive thematic analysis. Results: Three themes were identified from the analysis: Two of the themes were labeled using the PEN-3 cultural model categories; (1) relationships and expectations influencing survivorship experience, (2) cultural empowerment and cancer survivorship. The third theme represents the improvement recommendations provided by the participants; (3) recommendations for improving survivorship. Discussion: The findings of this study will add to a body of knowledge on using a cultural lens to deepen our understanding cancer survivorship inequities and may inform culturally tailored cancer survivorship interventions in Black and Latinx communities.