OBJECTIVE: To characterize the social support network of adults with cancer. METHODS: A quantitative, exploratory, descriptive, cross-sectional research study conducted with adults with cancer, between August-November 2010, in their homes, using the Convoy of Social Support, and analysis of data with Microsoft Excel 2003. RESULTS: Sixty-nine patients were consulted and cited 506 members in their support networks, aged 1 to 89 years, the majority being female, residing within 30 minutes of the patient's home and who were encountered daily. Of the support contemplated in the diagram, patients perceived that they gave more support than they received, except "Caring in a situation of disease." The type of support provided and received most was "Respect" and the least was "Caring in a situation of disease." CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the relevancy of affective bonds for patients and pointed out the limitation of families as unique supportive bonds.
Social support; Neoplasms; Family
