'It's all bad news': the first 3 months following a diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma

Objective: This study explores patient's experience during the first 3months following a diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma. Methods: This study uses a grounded theory approach with semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with 10 patients during the first 3months following diagnosis. Results: The key concept that emerged from the data was this: Uncertainty and lack of control leading to emotional, physical and psychosocial distress. Three themes informed the key concept: it's all bad news', good and bad days' and strategies of amelioration. Patients worked with a short-term perspective on their illness but worried about the long-term outcome and the speed of their deterioration. Conclusions: Patients receive insufficient psychosocial support during the first 3months following diagnosis. An early palliative care referral would improve support and referral strategies during the first 3months of the disease. Copyright (c) 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.