Dapithapon: A short feature on lung cancer disease patients and quality of life

• Main Authors: Martin, Francesca Anne D., Ranjo, Romney Givon F., Tejada, Trisha Arianna A.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2016
• Subjects: Lungs > Cancer; Cancer > Patients
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/8213
• Institution: De La Salle University

Lung cancer is regarded as the most common cancer in South East Asia due to its high mortality rate (World Health Organization). Despite this, a significant number of patients, most especially the elderly, refuse to undergo medical treatment (chemotherapy, etc.), which can be attributed to fear of its negative effects on one's physical state and quality of life (Otwonikoko, 5574 % 5576). This qualitative research aims to provide basis for short feature, Dapithapon, which focuses on a lung cancer disease patient's relationships and quality of life while not undergoing treatment. Furthermore, the film also challenges the common stereotype of cancer patients and the image associated with them. Used in the research are various medical and peer-reviewed journal articles on the overview of lung cancer-including its link to smoking and possible treatments-as well as its implications on the patient's quality of life, so as to create a realistic screenplay and rounded characters. Review of related films are also done in order to examine the stigma surrounding the disease and to further bring depth to the story. The group thinks that a lung cancer patient's attitude towards the disease is an essential factor that influences his or her quality of life, which includes one's daily activities and interaction with the people around him or her.