LE DIFFERENZE DI GENERE NEL VISSUTO E NELLA QUALITÀ DI VITA DEI PAZIENTI CON TUMORE AL COLON-RETTO

This thesis describes a study which explored the difference of gender in per-ceptions and experience of colorectal cancer. The study adopted a mixed method approach. In the quantitative perspective the sample consisted of patients with colorectal cancer (n=310). EORTC-QLQ30, CR29 and SF-12 questionnaires were used. The qualitative perspective examined 33 semi-structured interviews. Gender difference were found in quality of life, perceived functions and symptoms. Women reported worst perceive quality of life. Men and women commented differently as to their experiences of diagnosis, the perception of symptoms, emotions, the relations with partners. Further research should focus on the difference of gender in cancer experi-ence.