The aim was to explore the patient’s experiences to get insights into their
living habits prior to gastrointestinal cancer surgery. An interpretative
phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach was used. Six in-depth interviews with
participants recruited from a hospital in southeast Sweden. The IPA analysis
identified 3 themes:The influence of the cancer diagnosis on awareness
and motivation, Life circumstances affecting living habits, andActivities bringing mental strength. The participants
expressed their motivation level and circumstances in life. Various types of
activities and support promoted physical and mental health. Motivation level and
circumstances in life both influence living habits. Various kinds of activities
and support promote patients’ physical and mental health. Nurses need to
investigate patients’ experiences when developing person-centered support to
achieve health-promoting behavior prior to cancer surgery.