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R K, L S, P B, S G, R LP. Psychosocial experiences of breast cancer survivors: a meta-review. J Cancer Surviv 2024; 18:84-123. [PMID: 36854799 PMCID: PMC10866753 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01336-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Advances in breast cancer care have led to a high rate of survivorship. This meta-review (systematic review of reviews) assesses and synthesises the voluminous qualitative survivorship evidence-base, providing a comprehensive overview of the main themes regarding breast cancer survivorship experiences, and areas requiring further investigation. METHODS Sixteen breast cancer reviews identified by a previous mixed cancer survivorship meta-review were included, with additional reviews published between 1998 and 2020, and primary papers published after the last comprehensive systematic review between 2018 and 2020, identified via database searches (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO). Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and the CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative) checklist for primary studies. A meta-ethnographic approach was used to synthesise data. RESULTS Of 1673 review titles retrieved, 9 additional reviews were eligible (25 reviews included in total). Additionally, 76 individual papers were eligible from 2273 unique papers. Reviews and studies commonly focused on specific survivorship groups (including those from ethnic minorities, younger/older, or with metastatic/advanced disease), and topics (including return to work). Eight themes emerged: (1) Ongoing impact and search for normalcy, (2) Uncertainty, (3) Identity: Loss and change, (4) Isolation and being misunderstood, (5) Posttraumatic growth, (6) Return to work, (7) Quality of care, and (8) Support needs and coping strategies. CONCLUSIONS Breast cancer survivors continue to face challenges and require interventions to address these. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Breast cancer survivors may need to prepare for ongoing psychosocial challenges in survivorship and proactively seek support to overcome these.
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Affiliation(s)
- King R
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stafford L
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Butow P
- Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-Based Decision-Making, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Giunta S
- Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-Based Decision-Making, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Laidsaar-Powell R
- Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-Based Decision-Making, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
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Khajoei R, Azadeh P, ZohariAnboohi S, Ilkhani M, Nabavi FH. Breast cancer survivorship needs: a qualitative study. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:96. [PMID: 38233789 PMCID: PMC10795302 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-11834-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer rates and the number of breast cancer survivors have been increasing among women in Iran. Effective responses from healthcare depend on appropriately identifying survivors' needs. This study investigated the experience and needs of breast cancer survivors in different dimensions. METHODS In this qualitative content analysis, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted from April 2023 to July 2023. Data saturation was achieved after interviewing 16 breast cancer survivors (BCSs) and four oncologists using purposive sampling. Survivors were asked to narrate their experiences about their needs during the survivorship. Data were analyzed with an inductive approach in order to extract the themes. RESULTS Twenty interviews were conducted. The analysis focused on four central themes: (1) financial toxicity (healthcare costs, unplanned retirement, and insurance coverage of services); (2) family support (emotional support, Physical support); (3) informational needs (management of side effects, management of uncertainty, and balanced diet); and (4) psychological and physical issues (pain, fatigue, hot flashes, and fear of cancer recurrence). CONCLUSIONS This study provides valuable information for designing survivorship care plans. Identifying the survivorship needs of breast cancer survivors is the first and most important step, leading to optimal healthcare delivery and improving quality of life. It is recommended to check the financial capability of patients and take necessary measures for patients with financial problems. Additionally, support sources should be assessed and appropriate. Psychological interventions should be considered for patients without a support source. Consultation groups can be used to meet the information needs of patients. For patients with physical problems, self-care recommendations may also be useful in addition to doctors' orders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahimeh Khajoei
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran
| | - Payam Azadeh
- Radiation Oncology Department, School of Medicine, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sima ZohariAnboohi
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Ilkhani
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR, Iran.
| | - Fatemah Heshmati Nabavi
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Dhakal K, Wang P, Mboineki JF, Getu MA, Chen C, Shrestha DL. The distinct experience of supportive care needs among cervical cancer patients: A qualitative study. TUMORI JOURNAL 2023; 109:394-405. [PMID: 37470217 DOI: 10.1177/03008916221128064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with cervical cancer report experiencing physical, psychological, economic, and social problems daily. An exploration of supportive care needs is important for patients and their families to cope with diagnosis, treatment, recovery or even death. OBJECTIVE This study explores the perceived supportive care needs of Nepali patients with cervical cancer who are undergoing cancer treatment. METHODS A descriptive qualitative research design was utilized with semi-structured interviews to probe patients with cervical cancer's supportive care needs. The study was conducted at a cancer-specific hospital in Nepal. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 30 patients with cervical cancer. Qualitative thematic analysis techniques were employed to identify the supportive care needs of Nepalese patients with cervical cancer. RESULTS Supportive care needs were identified with five main themes and sixteen sub-themes: 1) psychological trauma (regret on delaying medical consultation, fear of disease, death and dying, ambivalence about the future and treatment, feeling of loss, caring/rearing of children, feeling and burden to partner/family); 2) financial distress (loss of income and challenges with treatment costs); 3) sexual disharmony; 4) physical dependency on others for day-to-day care and; 5) hunger for information (cause of disease, prognosis of disease, dietary counseling, and information on sexuality). CONCLUSION Recognizing the supportive care needs of patients with cervical cancer during treatment by health care professional and family members is vital to facilitate optimal care at the hospital and home for overall improvement in the patient's quality of life. Acknowledgment that the expensive treatment regime creates an economic and psychological burden for the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamala Dhakal
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Maharjgunj Nursing Campus, Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Panpan Wang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | | | - Mikiyas Amare Getu
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Changying Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Kafami M, Vaseghi G, Haghjooy Javanmard S, Mahdavi M, Dana N, Esmalian-Afyouni N, Gohari A. Effects of the Co-Administration of Morphine and Lipopolysaccharide on Toll-Like Receptor-4/Nuclear Factor Kappa β Signaling Pathway of MDA-MB-231 Breast Cancer Cells. Adv Biomed Res 2023; 12:149. [PMID: 37564449 PMCID: PMC10410415 DOI: 10.4103/abr.abr_107_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) gene promotes migration in adenocarcinoma cells. Morphine is an agonist for TLR4 that has a dual role in cancer development. The promoter or inhibitor role of morphine in cancer progression remains controversial. This study aims to evaluate the effects of morphine on the TLR4, myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88-dependent (MyD88), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) expressions in the human MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line. Materials and Methods The cells were examined after 24 hours of incubation with morphine using the Boyden chamber system. TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB mRNA expressions were assessed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The concentration of interleukin-2 beta was also measured using the ELISA assay. Results According to the findings, three doses of morphine (0.25, 1.25, and 0.025 μM) increased the expression of the TLR4 and NF-κB genes, whereas no significant change was observed in the mRNA expression of MyD88. Furthermore, treatment with morphine and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) significantly decreased the expression of TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB. However, no significant change was observed in interleukin 2 beta concentration. Conclusions These findings confirmed the excitatory effects of morphine on TRL4 expression and the MYD88 signaling pathway in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Kafami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Golnaz Vaseghi
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Shaghayegh Haghjooy Javanmard
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Manijeh Mahdavi
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nasim Dana
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nazgol Esmalian-Afyouni
- Applied Physiology Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ali Gohari
- Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
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Fan R, Wang L, Bu X, Wang W, Zhu J. Unmet supportive care needs of breast cancer survivors: a systematic scoping review. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:587. [PMID: 37365504 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11087-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide. Though improved treatments and prolonged overall survival, breast cancer survivors (BCSs) persistently suffer from various unmet supportive care needs (USCNs) throughout the disease. This scoping review aims to synthesize current literature regarding USCNs among BCSs. METHODS This study followed a scoping review framework. Articles were retrieved from Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Medline from inception through June 2023, as well as reference lists of relevant literature. Peer-reviewed journal articles were included if USCNs among BCSs were reported. Inclusion/exclusion criteria were adopted to screen articles' titles and abstracts as well as to entirely assess any potentially pertinent records by two independent researchers. Methodological quality was independently appraised following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools. Content analytic approach and meta-analysis were performed for qualitative and quantitative studies respectively. Results were reported according to the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews. RESULTS A total of 10,574 records were retrieved and 77 studies were included finally. The overall risk of bias was low to moderate. The self-made questionnaire was the most used instrument, followed by The Short-form Supportive Care Needs Survey questionnaire (SCNS-SF34). A total of 16 domains of USCNs were finally identified. Social support (74%), daily activity (54%), sexual/intimacy (52%), fear of cancer recurrence/ spreading (50%), and information support (45%) were the top unmet supportive care needs. Information needs and psychological/emotional needs appeared most frequently. The USCNs was found to be significantly associated with demographic factors, disease factors, and psychological factors. CONCLUSION BCSs are experiencing a large number of USCNs in fearing of cancer recurrence, daily activity, sexual/intimacy, psychology and information, with proportions ranging from 45% to 74%. Substantial heterogeneity in study populations and assessment tools was observed. There is a need for further research to identify a standard evaluation tool targeted to USCNs on BCSs. Effective interventions based on guidelines should be formulated and conducted to decrease USCNs among BCSs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Fan
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaofan Bu
- The School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Wenxiu Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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Kularatna S, Allen M, Hettiarachchi RM, Crawford-Williams F, Senanayake S, Brain D, Hart NH, Koczwara B, Ee C, Chan RJ. Cancer Survivor Preferences for Models of Breast Cancer Follow-Up Care: Selecting Attributes for Inclusion in a Discrete Choice Experiment. THE PATIENT 2023:10.1007/s40271-023-00631-0. [PMID: 37213062 DOI: 10.1007/s40271-023-00631-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE It is critical to evaluate cancer survivors' preferences when developing follow-up care models to better address the needs of cancer survivors. This study was conducted to understand the key attributes of breast cancer follow-up care for use in a future discrete choice experiment (DCE) survey. METHODS Key attributes of breast cancer follow-up care models were generated using a multi-stage, mixed-methods approach. Focus group discussions were conducted with cancer survivors and clinicians to generate a range of attributes of current and ideal follow-up care. These attributes were then prioritised using an online survey with survivors and healthcare providers. The DCE attributes and levels were finalised via an expert panel discussion based on the outcomes of the previous stages. RESULTS Four focus groups were held, two with breast cancer survivors (n = 7) and two with clinicians (n = 8). Focus groups generated sixteen attributes deemed important for breast cancer follow-up care models. The prioritisation exercise was conducted with 20 participants (14 breast cancer survivors and 6 clinicians). Finally, the expert panel selected five attributes for a future DCE survey tool to elicit cancer survivors' preferences on breast cancer follow-up care. The final attributes included: the care team, allied health and supportive care, survivorship care planning, travel for appointments, and out-of-pocket costs. CONCLUSIONS Attributes identified can be used in future DCE studies to elicit cancer survivors' preferences for breast cancer follow-up care. This strengthens the design and implementation of follow-up care programs that best suit the needs and expectations of breast cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeewa Kularatna
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI) and Centre for Healthcare Transformation, School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Michelle Allen
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI) and Centre for Healthcare Transformation, School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ruvini M Hettiarachchi
- Centre for the Business and Economics of Health, The University of Queensland, QLD, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Fiona Crawford-Williams
- Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Sameera Senanayake
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI) and Centre for Healthcare Transformation, School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David Brain
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI) and Centre for Healthcare Transformation, School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Nicolas H Hart
- Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia
- Institute for Health Research, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Bogda Koczwara
- College of Medicine and Public Health and Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Carolyn Ee
- Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Raymond J Chan
- Caring Futures Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Cancer and Palliative Care Outcomes Centre, School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Kocan S, Aktug C, Gursoy A. "Who am I?" A qualitative meta-synthesis of Chemotherapy-induced alopecia and body image perception in breast cancer patients. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:237. [PMID: 36973593 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07704-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since alopecia may be the first physical evidence and sign of cancer diagnosis and treatment, it may have a more serious and challenging effect on a woman than the loss of breast tissue. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to summarize the current qualitative research which explores the body image perceptions of breast cancer patients with chemotherapy-induced alopecia. MATERIAL AND METHODS We searched three electronic databases and reviewed studies from December 2011 to December 2021 for qualitative results analysing the experiences of women with breast cancer and chemotherapy-induced alopecia. The Joanna Briggs Institute critical (JBI) appraisal tool was used to assess the quality of the targeted studies. The Meta-synthesis process developed by Sandelowski and Barroso was used to collect and analyse the data. RESULTS We discovered two main and five sub-themes from the meta-synthesis findings of 11 qualitative studies involving 225 women. The main themes were "I am not comfortable in this body" and "Who am I?". The first main theme revealed patients' intense reactions to their hair loss: "I'm in emotional chaos", "I am looking for a place to hide" and "I knew it and now I'm experiencing it".The second main theme of "Who am I?" contained two sub-themes: "What did my hair take from my femininity when it was gone?" and "Will I lose my partner after my hair?". CONCLUSION Meta-synthesis provided an up-to-date and integrated interpretation of scientific results about the experiences of women with breast cancer, alopecia, and their body image perceptions. This interpretation will facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the alopecia-body image relationship. Thus, the aim of the meta-synthesis results is that these will contribute to nurses' understanding of how alopecia, although a temporary symptom, affects women's perceptions of body image.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sema Kocan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Rize, Turkey.
| | - Cemile Aktug
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Gümüshane University, Gümüshane, Turkey
| | - Ayla Gursoy
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Antalya Bılım University, Antalya, Turkey
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Khajoei R, Ilkhani M, Azadeh P, Zohari Anboohi S, Heshmati Nabavi F. Breast cancer survivors-supportive care needs: systematic review. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2023; 13:143-153. [PMID: 36972985 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-003931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To achieve optimal survival care outcomes, all healthcare services must be tailored to patients' specific needs, preferences and concerns throughout the survival period. This study aimed to identify supportive care needs from the point of view of breast cancer survivors. METHODS Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for reporting systematic reviews, a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus was performed. The inclusion criteria were studies published from inception to the end of January 2022, covering all stages of breast cancer. The exclusion criteria were mixed-type studies relating to cancer, such as case reports, commentaries, editorials and systematic reviews, as well as studies that assessed patients' needs during cancer treatment. Two quality assessment tools were used for the qualitative and quantitative studies. RESULTS Of the 13 095 records retrieved, 40 studies, including 20 qualitative and 20 quantitative studies, were retained for this review. Survivors' supportive care needs were classified into 10 dimensions and 40 subdimensions. The most frequently mentioned supportive care needs of survivors were psychological/emotional needs (N=32), health system/informational needs (N=30), physical and daily activities (N=19), and interpersonal/intimacy needs (N=19). CONCLUSIONS This systematic review highlights several essential needs for breast cancer survivors. Supportive programmes should be designed in order to take into consideration all aspects of these needs, particularly psychological, emotional and informational needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahimeh Khajoei
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Mahnaz Ilkhani
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Payam Azadeh
- Radiation Oncology Department, Imam Hossein Hospital, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Sima Zohari Anboohi
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Fatemah Heshmati Nabavi
- Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
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Elsous A, Radwan M, Najjar S, Masad A, Abu Rayya M. Unmet needs and health-related quality of life of breast cancer survivors: survey from Gaza Strip, Palestine. Acta Oncol 2023; 62:194-209. [PMID: 36802358 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2180326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer, especially breast cancer, remains a public health problem because of its negative consequences, which require long-term programs to alleviate its devastating effects. This study aimed to examine unmet supportive care needs and health-related quality of life of females with breast cancer. METHODS A cross-sectional study with a mixed-method design was employed. A simple, randomly selected sample of 352 females attending Al-Rantisi and Al-Amal hospitals was included in this study. A validated Arabic version of the Supportive Care Needs Survey (34 items) and The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life (EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL) were used. Moreover, twenty-five semi-structured interviews were performed (13 females, eight husbands, and four healthcare workers). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential analysis, whereas thematic analysis was used for qualitative data to highlight main themes. RESULTS The highest unmet need reported by females with breast cancer was psychological needs (63%), followed by health-related systems and information (62%) and physical and daily life (61%). Pain and fatigue were the most reported symptoms (65.8% and 62.5%, respectively), followed by emotional distress, physical function, and physical symptoms; 55.8%, 54.3%, and 51.5%, respectively. These unmet needs and health-related quality of life-related dimensions were highlighted and elicited by qualitative data analysis. Unmet needs are high among married females, on conservative treatments, young females (< 40 years old), and females in the first year of diagnosis. The presence of chronic diseases did not increase needs. However, health-related quality of life was affected. Six themes are subtracted: availability of anticancer therapy, affordability of healthcare, family and social support, psychological support, health education, and self-image & intimate relationship. CONCLUSION Many needs are unmet. Caring for females with breast cancer should be comprehensive to fill gaps, including psychological care, health information and education, physical care and support, and medical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymen Elsous
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Israa University -Gaza, Gaza strip, Palestine.,Department of Planning, Unit of Planning and Institutional Development Performance, Ministry of Health, Gaza strip, Palestine
| | - Mahmoud Radwan
- Department of Foreign Relations, General Directorate of International Cooperation, Ministry of Health, Gaza strip, Palestine
| | - Shahenaz Najjar
- Health Policy and Health Informatics, Arab American University of Palestine, Palestine.,Leuven Institute for Healthcare Policy, Pillar Quality and Safety, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven
| | - Atef Masad
- Department of Medical Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Israa University -Gaza, Gaza strip, Palestine
| | - Mohammed Abu Rayya
- Public Health Consultant, Aid and Hope Program for Cancer Patients Care, Gaza strip, Palestine
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Solomon K, Tamire M, Solomon N, Bililign N, Kaba M. Misconceptions About Female Cancers Contributing to Late Presentation to Health Facilities in Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study. Int J Womens Health 2023; 15:299-309. [PMID: 36814529 PMCID: PMC9939666 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s395824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Morbidity and mortality from female cancers is a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries, including Ethiopia. More than three quarters of women visiting health facilities are diagnosed with late-stage cervical and breast cancer. Evidence reveals that misconception affects timely health seeking behavior which could have averted expensive treatment and poor survival. This study aimed to explore misconceptions about female cancers that may have contributed to late presentation of the problem to health facilities in Sidama region, Ethiopia. Methods A descriptive qualitative study was carried out in June 2021. Nine focus group discussions (six with women and three with men) and 14 key informants were conducted. Data were collected using interview guide until all information get saturated. Data were inductively coded and qualitative content analysis was applied. Results A total of 63 (24 men and 39 women) people participated in this study. Nearly all (12) key informant interviewees have awareness about cervical and breast cancer, yet reported that their community members clearly lack awareness and they are working to improve misconceptions regarding cervical and breast cancer. The focus group discussion participants (15 men and 36 women) reported lack of detailed information related to cervical and breast cancer. Women believe that cervical and breast cancer mainly resulted from poor hygiene, trauma, having multiple sexual partners, early marriage, breast exposure to heat, not breast feeding, birth complication, urinating in the sun, hereditary, devil's intrusion and God's punishment. Conclusion There were misconceptions among the community on what cervical and breast cancer mean, how they could happen, what the symptoms are, why and when to screen, when to seek health care and how to use modern treatment options. Therefore, we recommended the design of social and behavioral change strategies to address the misconceptions among different population groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalkidan Solomon
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,Correspondence: Kalkidan Solomon, Email
| | - Mulugeta Tamire
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Nahom Solomon
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan Tepi University, Mizan-Aman, Ethiopia
| | - Nigus Bililign
- Department of Midwifery, School of Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Mirgissa Kaba
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Koçak AT, Arslan S, İlik Y. Posttreatment Experiences of Breast Cancer Survivors in Turkey: A Qualitative Study. Semin Oncol Nurs 2022; 38:151351. [PMID: 36244885 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2022.151351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the posttreatment experiences of breast cancer survivors in Turkey. DATA SOURCES The study was conducted in Turkey between February 2020 and April 2020 with 18 breast cancer survivors who completed the treatment process. The data were collected using the individual in-depth interview method with the semi-structured interview form. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, and the data were analyzed using the seven-step Colaizzi method. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist was used to report the study. CONCLUSION Four main themes emerged in the study which are symptom management, emotional responses, change in life, and challenges in health care. The cancer survivors in Turkey reported that moral values had more meaning for them after treatment, they started to feel extremely worried about their children, they tried to manage their own processes with the information they themselves gained and with some support systems, and they experienced radical changes in their family and social relations. In addition, cancer survivors criticized the inadequacy of health care services, including relapse follow-up after the treatment process. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE This study provides an overview of the lived experiences of posttreatment breast cancer survivors in Turkey. The findings of this study can be used to better understand breast cancer survivors, identify their needs based on their experience, and develop interventions to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayyüce Tuba Koçak
- Research Assistant, PhD Student, Nursing Faculty, Department of Internal Medicine Nursing, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Selda Arslan
- Associate Professor, Nursing Faculty, Department of Internal Medicine Nursing, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Yeter İlik
- Faculty of Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey
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12
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Chiaranai C, Chularee S, White JS. Lived Experience of Breast Cancer Survivors: A Phenomenological Study. J Nurs Res 2022; 30:e247. [PMID: 36121427 DOI: 10.1097/jnr.0000000000000518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer (BrCa) is the most common cancer worldwide. Five-year survival rates among individuals with BrCa are the highest of all types of cancer, yet there is a paucity of knowledge about the experiences of survivors regarding living through their diagnosis and treatment. In-depth interviews and the systematic analysis of self-reported experiences may provide in-depth information about the BrCa survivorship experience. PURPOSE This qualitative study was designed to identify and elucidate the lived experiences of Thai women with BrCa who successfully completed their treatment program for BrCa and/or treatment with chemotherapy for over 5 years and are currently cancer-free. METHODS A phenomenological method was employed. Survivors of BrCa who met the inclusion criteria were purposively selected and invited to take part in the study. Study data were collected between January and March 2019. An open-ended, in-depth interview guide was used to direct the conversation concerning the participants' experiences and perceptions. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis. RESULTS Data saturation was reached after 12 interviews. The five themes derived from the data include (a) being distressed, (b) accepting treatments and seeking alternative treatments, (c) going through difficult times, (d) becoming a stronger person, and (e) becoming thankful. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The experiences and themes identified enhance scholarly understanding regarding the experience of survivors of BrCa. A true understanding of this experience enables healthcare providers to craft and deliver appropriate interventions that provide quality care and improve women's health, thereby enhancing their quality of life. The results of this study may contribute to the development of new theories by using different qualitative approaches such as grounded theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantira Chiaranai
- PhD, RN, Associate Professor, Institute of Nursing, Suranaree University of Technology, Thailand
| | - Saranya Chularee
- PhD, RN, Assistant Professor, Institute of Nursing, Suranaree University of Technology, Thailand
| | - Jeranut Somchock White
- PhD, RN, Instructor, Adult Nursing Department, Boromarajonani College of Nursing, Nakhonratchasima, Thailand
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13
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Udayakumar S, Solomon E, Isaranuwatchai W, Rodin DL, Ko YJ, Chan KKW, Parmar A. Cancer treatment-related financial toxicity experienced by patients in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:6463-6471. [PMID: 35322274 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-06952-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In the past decade, literature has called attention to financial toxicities experienced by cancer patients. Though studies have addressed research questions in high-income countries, there remains a paucity of in-depth reviews regarding low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Our scoping review provides an overview of treatment-related financial toxicities experienced by cancer patients in LMICs. METHODS A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. English peer-reviewed articles that (a) explored patients' experience with financial toxicity due to cancer treatment (b) were specific to LMICs as defined by the World Bank and (c) focused on qualitative data were included. Details regarding participants and main findings were extracted and synthesized. RESULTS The search yielded 6290 citations, and 42 studies across 3 low-income, 9 lower-middle-income and 8 upper-middle-income countries. Main themes identified included cancer patients encountered various material hardships, managed costs with different coping behaviours and experienced negative psychological responses to their financial burden. Higher levels of financial toxicities were associated with patient characteristics such as lower socio-economic status and lack of insurance, as well as patient outcomes such as lower quality of life. CONCLUSION Cancer patients in LMIC experience deleterious financial toxicities as a result of treatment. This comprehensive characterization of financial toxicities will better allow health systems to adopt evidence-based mitigation strategies to reduce the financial burden on patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eden Solomon
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Danielle L Rodin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yoo-Joung Ko
- St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kelvin K W Chan
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, ON, Toronto, Canada.,Canadian Centre for Applied Research in Cancer Control, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ambica Parmar
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. .,Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, ON, Toronto, Canada.
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14
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Lundberg PC, Phoosuwan N. Life situations of Swedish women after mastectomy due to breast cancer: A qualitative study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2022; 57:102116. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2022.102116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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15
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Hu RY, Wang JY, Chen WL, Zhao J, Shao CH, Wang JW, Wei XM, Yu JM. Stress, coping strategies and expectations among breast cancer survivors in China: a qualitative study. BMC Psychol 2021; 9:26. [PMID: 33557956 PMCID: PMC7869238 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-021-00515-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer is a common tumor in China and has become a public health problem in modern society. Stress plays an important role in the occurrence and progression of cancer. At present, the current situation of stress on breast cancer survivors (BCSs) in China has not been fully understood. This study aims to explore the stress and coping strategies of Chinese BCSs, which provide suggestions to help BCSs reduce stress. Methods Sixty-three BCSs from the Shanghai Cancer Rehabilitation Club in China were included in this study and were divided into eight focus groups. These were transcribed verbatim, coded using thematic analysis and analyzed using NVivo 11. Results Three themes were extracted from the data to address our research objectives: stress, coping strategies and expectations. The stress of BCSs included psychological stress, stress caused by physical pain, economic stress, stress caused by the change of life status, and stress caused by information overload; the coping strategies included self-strategies and help from others; from the perspective of the survivors, they put forward their expectations for both the society and themselves. Conclusions This study shows that BCSs face a variety of stress. In the face of stress, BCSs need comprehensive support, including social and family support to cope with stressors. The findings from this study provide evidence for improving the quality of life among BCSs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruo-Yu Hu
- Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment of National Health Commission, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jing-Ya Wang
- Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment of National Health Commission, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wan-Li Chen
- Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment of National Health Commission, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment of National Health Commission, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun-Hai Shao
- Department of Nutrition, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ji-Wei Wang
- Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment of National Health Commission, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiao-Min Wei
- Shanghai Health Promotion Center, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jin-Ming Yu
- Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment of National Health Commission, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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16
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The prevalence, epidemiology and screening results of breast cancer in women of Guilan province, north of Iran: A cross-sectional study during 2017–2018. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2020.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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17
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Iddrisu M, Aziato L, Dedey F. Psychological and physical effects of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment on young Ghanaian women: a qualitative study. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:353. [PMID: 32631279 PMCID: PMC7336427 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02760-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young women diagnosed with breast cancer face challenges that interfere with their entire life with psychological and physical effects. METHOD We employed a qualitative exploratory descriptive design, and recruited twelve participants through purposive and snowball sampling methods to conduct 12 face to face individual interviews. A reputable review board in Ghana; Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, gave ethical clearance for data collection. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic content analysis. RESULTS Three themes emerged from the data; physical effects of breast cancer, effects of treatment on body image, and emotional effects of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The negative effects of treatment incapacitated most of the women and limited their activities of daily living. Some experienced severe bodily weakness and stayed indoors for days. Most participants felt they looked unattractive because they have had a mastectomy done, and used pieces of rags and handkerchiefs as breast prostheses. Those who had hair loss through chemotherapy used different kinds of wigs to cover their baldness. Almost all the participants cried, felt depressed, and became emotionally unstable when they were told their diagnosis. Some denied their diagnoses and displaced their anger on healthcare personnel. A few of them felt they had brought disgrace to their families because breast cancer is perceived, a disgraceful disease. CONCLUSION Young women diagnosed with breast cancer require psychological interventions and physical support from healthcare personnel and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merri Iddrisu
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485Department of Adult Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG43, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lydia Aziato
- Department of Adult Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG43, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Florence Dedey
- grid.8652.90000 0004 1937 1485School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
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18
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Faruqui N, Joshi R, Martiniuk A, Lowe J, Arora R, Anis H, Kalra M, Bakhshi S, Mishra A, Santa A, Sinha S, Siddaiahgari S, Seth R, Bernays S. A health care labyrinth: perspectives of caregivers on the journey to accessing timely cancer diagnosis and treatment for children in India. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1613. [PMID: 31791308 PMCID: PMC6889559 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7911-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cure rates for children with cancer in India lag behind that of high-income countries. Various disease, treatment and socio-economic related factors contribute to this gap including barriers in timely access of diagnostic and therapeutic care. This study investigated barriers to accessing care from symptom onset to beginning of treatment, from perspectives of caregivers of children with cancer in India. Methods Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with caregivers of children (< 18 years) diagnosed with cancer in seven tertiary care hospitals across New Delhi and Hyderabad. Purposive sampling to saturation was used to ensure adequate representation of the child’s gender, age, cancer type, geographical location and socioeconomic status. Interviews were audio recorded after obtaining informed consent. Thematic content analysis was conducted and organised using NVivo 11. Results Thirty-nine caregivers were interviewed, where three key themes emerged from the narratives: time intervals to definitive diagnosis and treatment, the importance of social supportive care and the overall accumulative impacts of the journey. There were two phases encapsulating the experiences of the family: referral pathways taken to reach the hospital and after reaching the hospital. Most caregivers, especially those from distant geographical areas had variable and inconsistent referral pathways partly due to poor availability of specialist doctors and diagnostic facilities outside major cities, influence from family or friends, and long travel times. Upon reaching the hospital, families mostly from public hospitals faced challenges navigating the hospital facilities, finding accommodation, and comprehending the diagnosis and treatment pathway. Throughout both phases, financial constraint was a recurring issue amongst low-income families. The caregiver’s knowledge and awareness of the disease and health system, religious and social factors were also common barriers. Conclusion This qualitative study highlights and explores some of the barriers to childhood cancer care in India. Our findings show that referral pathways are intrinsically linked to the treatment experience and there should be better recognition of the financial and emotional challenges faced by the family that occur prior to definitive diagnosis and treatment. This information would help inform various stakeholders and contribute to improved interventions addressing these barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Faruqui
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia. .,George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Rohina Joshi
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alexandra Martiniuk
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Ramandeep Arora
- Cankids…Kidscan, New Delhi, India.,Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Manas Kalra
- Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | | | | | - Ayyagari Santa
- Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital, Hyderabad, India
| | | | | | | | - Sarah Bernays
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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