Sociability of male cancer patients with stoma: a qualitative metasynthesis.

Abstract

<h4>Objectives</h4>to synthesize evidence from qualitative studies produced in literature on the sociability of men with ostomies due to a cancer diagnosis.<h4>Methods</h4>a qualitative metasynthesis was conducted in seven databases with studies published between 2004 and 2024. The sample included six studies, analyzed using MaxQDA® software, validated by Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, and synthesized based on the concept of sociability.<h4>Results</h4>four descriptive topics were identified: a) Challenges in sexual performance; b) Physical and emotional impacts: self-esteem and social isolation; c) Social limitations and strategies for living with a stoma in society; d) Alternating male behaviors within the family structure. These topics were encompassed by the analytical topic: Male sociability in transformation: experiences of men with a stoma.<h4>Final considerations</h4>culturally constructed masculinity shapes men's sociability, but living with a stoma generates insecurity, redefines social roles, and significantly impacts the dynamics of public and private relationships.