RESEARCH

The Role of Nature in Cancer Patients’ Lives: A Systematic Review and Qualitative Meta-Synthesis

The systematic search initially identified 2342 records, but only 11 documents met the inclusion criteria for synthesis. Notably, all 11 included articles omitted information about the researchers’ reflexive practice, a key domain in assessing methodological rigour.

Program Types: Therapeutic, Social

Population Groups: Rehabilitation, Chronic/Acute Health Conditions

Setting or Context: Hospitals/Clinics, Rehabilitation Centers, Community Gardens, Natural Areas/Parks/Forest, Homes/Private Residences

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose, Enhanced Spiritual Health, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Stress Management, Sensory Stimulation, Better Nutritional Awareness, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Increased Self-Efficacy

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Landscape Design, Forest/Ecotherapy

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening, Meal/Diet-Based Activities, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Patient-Reported Outcomes

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Summary

This systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis explores the role of nature in the lives of cancer patients. Recognizing the increasing global burden of cancer and the need for cost-effective supportive care, the study aimed to synthesize existing qualitative literature to understand how nature supports or detracts from patients’ recovery and whether they value these opportunities. The methodology involved a comprehensive electronic search across databases like Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Cochrane, identifying qualitative studies published between 1985 and 2015. After rigorous screening and quality appraisal using criteria like the COREQ guidelines, eleven eligible publications were included. Data from these studies, including participant quotes and author interpretations, were extracted and analyzed using inductive coding and constant comparison to identify recurring themes.

The meta-synthesis identified seven core themes describing the multifaceted ways nature impacts cancer patients. These themes included connecting with valued aspects (self, others, nature, past), gaining distance from the clinical experience (being elsewhere), exploring inner and outer life changes, finding nature to be a “home and safe” place, using nature’s symbolism for understanding and communication, benefitting from physical activity in nature, and experiencing aesthetic enrichment. The findings suggest that nature functions as a “secure base,” offering patients physical and psychic space with personal significance, supporting them in navigating the consequences of cancer by providing new perspectives and fostering connections. The study concludes that acknowledging these patient values can inform supportive care and the design of clinical environment.

Link

Blaschke, S. (2017). The role of nature in cancer patient’s lives: A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis. BMC Cancer, 1, 370

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