Socio-economic and Psychological Experiences of Patients with Thyroid Cancer Before and After Radioactive Iodine Therapy: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy presents various challenges in thyroid cancer patients following thyroidectomy. Deeper understanding of patients’ socio-economic and psychological experiences before and after undergoing RAI therapy, an in-depth qualitative approach was used in this  study. 
Methods: An exploratory descriptive qualitative study was carried out from August 2022 to July 2025 among 218 purposively selected thyroid cancer patients following thyroidectomy after RAI treatment at the Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Dhaka. Semi-structured and in-depth interviews were conducted at one and three months after surgery, covering both pre- and post-RAI periods. Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis approach were employed for data analysis. Ethical standards were maintained throughout the study. 
Results: The study linked four main areas—social, economic, psychological, and functional—covering eight key themes and thirty-two sub-themes. The results highlights that treatment for thyroid cancer  greatly affects patients' quality of life and recovery process tends to be slow and gradual. Before having radioactive iodine therapy, patients often faced psychological distress, shock, fear of the cancer recurrence, difficulties in their social life, financial worries, and increased emotional burden. After 
treatment, there were clear signs of improved emotional balance, stronger psychological aspects, and improved positive social interactions, though the level of recovery differed from person to person. Self care along with actual support from family, friends, as well as financially and spiritual assistance essential in helping patients cope. The study highlights the combined factors which are important in delivering actual patient-centered care that addresses overall well-being, not only the illness itself. 
Conclusion: Radioactive iodine therapy brings a range of challenges that can affect patients socially, emotionally, and in their daily functioning. This underscores the need for tailored care strategies and family-centered support systems to promote sustained recovery and enhance overall well-being 

Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 59 No (1) June 2026, pp 25-36