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Vassilev I, Lin SX, Calman L, Turner J, Frankland J, Wright D, Foster C. The role of social networks in the self-management support for young women recently diagnosed with breast cancer. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282183. [PMID: 37053231 PMCID: PMC10101384 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
It is widely acknowledged that social network support plays an important role in the quality of life and illness management of breast cancer survivors. However, the factors and processes that enable and sustain such support are less well understood. This paper reports baseline findings from a prospective UK national cohort of 1,202 women with breast cancer (aged <50 years at diagnosis), recruited before starting treatment, conducted in 2016-2019. Descriptive, univariate and multivariate regression analyses explored associations between the individual, and network member characteristics, and the type of support provided. Social network members provided a substantial level of illness-related, practical and emotional support. Highest contribution was provided by friends, followed by close family members. The social network members of women who did not have a partner provided a higher level of support than those in networks with a partner. Women without higher education were more reliant on close family members than those with higher education, and this was more so for women without a partner. Women with higher education without a partner were more reliant on friends and were overall best supported. Women without higher education who did not have a partner were overall least well supported. They had much smaller networks, were highly reliant on close family members, and on high level contributions from all network members. There is a need to develop network-based interventions to support people with a cancer diagnosis, prioritising support for the groups identified as most at risk. Interventions that support engagement with existing network members during treatment, and those that help extend such networks after treatment, are likely to be of benefit. A network perspective can help to develop tailored support and interventions by recognising the interactions between network and individual level processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivaylo Vassilev
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Sharon Xiaowen Lin
- ARC Wessex, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Management School, Xian Polytechnic University, Xian, China
| | - Lynn Calman
- Centre for Psychosocial Research in Cancer: CentRIC+, School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Josh Turner
- Centre for Psychosocial Research in Cancer: CentRIC+, School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Frankland
- Centre for Psychosocial Research in Cancer: CentRIC+, School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - David Wright
- Centre for Psychosocial Research in Cancer: CentRIC+, School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Claire Foster
- Centre for Psychosocial Research in Cancer: CentRIC+, School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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Almuhtaseb MIA, Alby F, Zucchermaglio C, Fatigante M. Social support for breast cancer patients in the occupied Palestinian territory. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252608. [PMID: 34143797 PMCID: PMC8213135 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research indicates that social support is beneficial to cancer patients in adjusting to the stress of the disease. Drawing on a qualitative content analysis of 36 semi-structured interviews, this article explores sources and types of social support in Arab-Palestinian women with breast cancer. Results show that members of the immediate family, husbands in particular, are reported to be the most supportive social sources. Given the limitations that characterize access to cancer care in the occupied Palestinian territory (OPT) and the collectivistic values of the society, women with breast cancer seem to rely mainly on their husbands to handle emotional, functional and informational needs. Emotional support includes the provision of care, trust, reassurance, and companionship. Functional support includes the practical assistance that the cancer patients receive in terms of financial support, attendance during treatment or help with domestic chores and childcare. Accessing appropriate informational support can be quite challenging in the OPT since available information is not always reliable. The family plays a key role in mediating communication with doctors. Contact with breast cancer patients and survivors is also a source of supporting information, with however a possible negative impact in terms of emotional coping. In this context, the immediate family becomes a fundamental resource for coping and a relational space that mediates connections with others, including doctors, acting as a "proxy" between the patient and the social environment. Findings are discussed in light of the historical and sociocultural context of the OPT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona I. A. Almuhtaseb
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, via dei Marsi, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Alby
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, via dei Marsi, Rome, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Cristina Zucchermaglio
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, via dei Marsi, Rome, Italy
| | - Marilena Fatigante
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, via dei Marsi, Rome, Italy
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Ruiz-Rodríguez I, Hombrados-Mendieta I, Melguizo-Garín A. Influencia del optimismo y la percepción de apoyo social del personal sanitario sobre la calidad de vida de los enfermos de cáncer. PSICOONCOLOGIA 2021. [DOI: 10.5209/psic.74532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objetivo: El presente estudio se plantea analizar la relación del apoyo social proporcionado por el personal sanitario y el optimismo del paciente con la calidad de vida y el estrés percibido por los enfermos de cáncer. Método: Se recogen datos referidos a características sociodemográficas, de salud, optimismo, apoyo social, calidad de vida y estrés percibido de 200 pacientes de cáncer con una edad media de 50,5 años (DT = 13,05). El 73,5% son mujeres y el 26,5% son hombres. Resultados: La satisfacción con el apoyo recibido del personal sanitario (emocional, instrumental e informacional) y el optimismo se relacionan con una mayor calidad de vida y un menor estrés percibido. Los modelos predictivos indican que la satisfacción con el apoyo instrumental es el que más disminuye el estrés de los pacientes. Respecto a la calidad de vida los modelos predictivos indican que es el apoyo informacional el que más aumenta el estado global de salud, el apoyo emocional y el instrumental los que mejoran el funcionamiento y el apoyo instrumental es el que más reduce los síntomas de los pacientes. También se han encontrado diferencias de género, las mujeres perciben significativamente más estrés y peor calidad de vida que los hombres. Conclusión: El personal sanitario es una fuente de apoyo útil para las personas con cáncer y el optimismo mejora la calidad de vida de los pacientes oncológicos. De este estudio se resaltan importantes implicaciones prácticas.
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Hamid W, Jahangir MS, Khan TA. Lived experiences of women suffering from breast cancer in Kashmir: a phenomenological study. Health Promot Int 2020; 36:680-692. [DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daaa091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Using a phenomenological approach, this study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of Kashmiri women suffering from breast cancer within the context of their day-to-day lives. Snowball sampling and theoretical sampling techniques were employed for recruiting participants. Data collection was primarily based on the principles of data saturation. Data saturation occurred after 12 women with breast cancer were interviewed. Data was collected using face-to-face in-depth individual interviews. The interview guide consisted of open-ended questions. To attain the utmost variation, sumptuousness and profundity of responses, interviewer asked probing, specific, and interpreting questions during interviews. Data analysis of the transcripts was based on Graneheim and Lundman’s (Qualitative content analysis in nursing research: concepts, procedures and measures to achieve trustworthiness. Nurse Education Today 2004;24:105–12) procedures for taking out themes in qualitative data. Two main themes emerged that explained the lived experiences of women with breast cancer: (i) challenges encountered (altered body image, embarrassment, perceived worries, financial constraints, dealing with negative attitudes and stigma) and (ii) coping strategies (reliance on religion and spirituality, social support, living as usual, optimistic attitude and will to recover, and venting out). The findings revealed that breast cancer diagnosis influences women significantly as they acknowledged that it wasthe most traumatic experience of their life; however, with time, they started to accept the reality and made use of various methods to cope with their illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wasia Hamid
- Department of Sociology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006, India
| | - Mohmad Saleem Jahangir
- Department of Sociology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir 190006, India
| | - Tanveer Ahmad Khan
- Department of Sociology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh 202002, India
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Rajagopal L, Pranee P, McBride KA. The Lived Experience of Australian Women Living with Breast Cancer: A Meta-Synthesis. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2019; 20:3233-3249. [PMID: 31759345 PMCID: PMC7062985 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2019.20.11.3233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among Australian women. In 2019, an estimated 19,000 women in Australia were diagnosed with breast cancer, with around 3,058 women dying from the disease in the same year. Although many qualitative studies published in Australia exist which examine breast cancer from various perspectives, only limited literature is available which addresses Australian women's lived experience of breast cancer from diagnosis, treatment and beyond. METHOD Meta-synthesis of qualitative studies. Participants who took part in either semi-structured interviews or surveys with open-ended questions were included. A thematic synthesis analysis approach was used. RESULTS Five themes and 13 sub themes emerged from the data analysis which illustrated the lived experience of Australian women diagnosed with breast cancer. Emotional burden and women's response towards their breast cancer diagnosis were key themes. Experience of decision- making , social distress, symptoms beyond changes in their body, fertility considerations and their role as mothers were some of the challenges during their treatment. Women coped and adjusted with these challenges through the support of their family, and healthcare providers. Women developed greater empowerment by making their life choices after treatment. Life choices such as getting into a new relationship was challenging for single women. CONCLUSION Although most women were emotionally supported following their diagnosis, there are still areas where women could be better supported such as when having to break the news of their breast cancer diagnosis to their children, provision of ongoing emotional support for caregivers of women with breast cancer, providing constant emotional and informational support at the point of diagnosis and during their treatment, tailoring treatments according to different stages of pregnancy, and discussion of fertility treatments in timely manner by healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pranee Pranee
- Translational Health Research Institute,
- School of Science and Health,
| | - Kate A. McBride
- Translational Health Research Institute,
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia.
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Dumrongpanapakorn P, Liamputtong P. Social support and coping means: the lived experiences of Northeastern Thai women with breast cancer. Health Promot Int 2018; 32:768-777. [PMID: 25876908 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/dav023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Social support plays a critical role in how women living with breast cancer deal with their diagnosis and treatment. This article discusses the meanings of breast cancer and the experiences of social support among women living with breast cancer in Northeastern Thailand (Isan). In-depth interviews were conducted with 18 women with breast cancer. Data were analysed using the thematic analysis method. Being diagnosed with breast cancer can be a traumatic experience. However, many women with breast cancer managed to deal with their illnesses and treatments and this was based largely on social support they received. Available support from family members, friends, neighbours, religion and health care professionals was essential for them to deal with their breast cancer. Social support was an important component for the provision of good care for these women and women living with breast cancer. Although medical treatments were essential for breast cancer, social support could enhance the effectiveness of the treatments as it helped women to have positive perspectives about their health conditions and to better deal with their illnesses. Our findings are useful for sensitive health promotion for women with breast cancer in Thailand and elsewhere. Social support should be modified to meet the woman's individual needs. Health professionals are an important source of social support for women with breast cancer. Having an understanding and being sensitive to these women's experiences and challenges means that health care professionals can provide more individualised support and care to women during their vulnerable period of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phensiri Dumrongpanapakorn
- Research andInternational Relations, Boromarajonani College of Nursing Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Phanom University, Nakhon Phanom, Thailand
| | - Pranee Liamputtong
- School of Psychology and Public Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
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Bener A, Alsulaiman R, Doodson L, Agathangelou T. Depression, Hopelessness and Social Support among Breast Cancer Patients: in Highly Endogamous Population. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2017; 18:1889-1896. [PMID: 28749617 PMCID: PMC5648395 DOI: 10.22034/apjcp.2017.18.7.1889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between different demographic variables, hopelessness,
depression and social support of Breast cancer patients in Qatari’s population. Design: This is an observational cohort
hospital based study. Subjects and Methods: The study included 678 breast cancer patients. The questionnaires included
a demographic questionnaire, the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS), Back Depression Scale (BDS) and Multidimensional
Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). The demographic questionnaire was used to assess patients’ basic
information including gender, age, marital status, education, family size, and place of residence. Medical information
regarding cancer stage, the time passed since diagnosis, treatment, and duration of disease were recorded. Results:
The mean age of the studied women was 47.7±10.2 years. Among the studied patients, 34.7% were Qataris and 65.3%
were Arab expatriates. Nearly 39.2% of the patients were in pre-menopausal status and 60.8% in post-menopausal
status. 86.1% of women were married. 14.6% were illiterate women, 20.9% were university graduates and 37.2%
were housewives. Smoking habit was less common in studied Arab women (9.1%), but, sheesha smoking was more
common, 17.7%. Daily physical activity indicated 25.7% were walking 30 minutes per-day and 14% were walking 60
minutes per day. 30.4% of them had consanguineous parents. Breast feeding was practiced among 67.7% of women and
over 73% were considered overweight and obese. Furthermore, over 75% of breast cancer women were at the Stage 3
(40.9%) and Stage 4 (35.8%) of cancer. The percentage of patients who underwent mastectomy and lumpectomy were
49.3 % and 50.7%, respectively. It was observed that 27.7% of BDI patients had moderate depression and 19.5% of
the BDI patients had severe depression and with mean and standard deviation 25.1±7.7. Also, the mean and SD of BDI
for consanguineous has showed statistically significant 28.4±5.7 than non- consanguineous 23.2± 8.0 (p<0.001). All
socio-demographic variables showed statistically significant differences with the total BHS score. The highest score
belongs to the family sub-dimension. Conclusion: The present study indicates that hopelessness of the patients with
breast cancer decreased with the increase in their social support. Therefore, activating patient social support systems is
of importance in increasing their levels of hope. The present study revealed the coexistence of the socio-demographic,
physical, psychological, and cognitive problems faced by patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulbari Bener
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Evidence for Population Health Unit, School of Epidemiology and Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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The relationship between the social support level perceived by patients with gynecologic cancer and mental adjustment to cancer. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2016; 134:208-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2015.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Suwankhong D, Liamputtong P. Social Support and Women Living With Breast Cancer in the South of Thailand. J Nurs Scholarsh 2015; 48:39-47. [PMID: 26580861 DOI: 10.1111/jnu.12179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To discuss social support among women with breast cancer in rural communities in southern Thailand. DESIGN Qualitative research that allowed researchers to understand the lived experiences of women living with breast cancer and social support. METHODS In-depth interviewing and drawing methods were adopted with 20 women with breast cancer. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data. FINDINGS Most women with breast cancer received three types of social support: emotional support, tangible support, and informational support. Most support came from family members and relatives. Religion was also a form of social support for women. Many women, however, received insufficient social support from healthcare providers. This reduced their capacity to manage their illness, thus impacting their well-being. CONCLUSIONS Various forms of support are essential for women with breast cancer so that they can better cope with their condition. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Nurses and other health professionals are an important source of social support for women with breast cancer. Through having an understanding of and being sensitive to these women's experiences, culture, and challenges, nurses and healthcare professionals can provide more individualized support and care to women during a vulnerable period of their life. We contend that the cultural perspectives of patients are crucial in nursing science. Nurses need to appreciate the importance of culture for the support of patients with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dusanee Suwankhong
- Lecturer, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Thaksin University, Phatthalung, Thailand
| | - Pranee Liamputtong
- Professor, School of Science and Health, Western Sydney University, New South Wales, Australia
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Liamputtong P, Suwankhong D. Breast cancer diagnosis: biographical disruption, emotional experiences and strategic management in Thai women with breast cancer. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2015; 37:1086-1101. [PMID: 25922881 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.12282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In this article we draw on Bury's theory of biographical disruption to discuss the meanings of, and emotional experiences related to, being diagnosed with breast cancer among southern Thai women. Qualitative methods, including in-depth interviewing and drawing methods, were used to collect data from 20 women with breast cancer. The women perceived breast cancer to be a rhok raai; an evil or dread disease. They believed that breast cancer would lead to death. The disruption in their biography occurred when they detected abnormalities indicating breast cancer. The women's narratives revealed their chaotic lives upon this diagnosis and the news precipitated in them shock, fear, anxiety and loss of hope. Although they experienced chaos and disruption, the women cultivated strategies that helped them cope with their experiences by accepting their fate and adhering to Buddhist beliefs and practices. Through their narratives of biographical disruption, the women in our study offer healthcare providers knowledge that could lead to an appreciation of their needs and concerns. This knowledge is crucial for health professionals who wish to provide emotional support to women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer in Thailand and elsewhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranee Liamputtong
- Department of Public Health, School of Psychology and Public Health, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Australia
| | - Dusanee Suwankhong
- Faculty of Public Health and Sports Science, Thaksin University, Thailand
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Therapeutic landscapes and living with breast cancer: The lived experiences of Thai women. Soc Sci Med 2015; 128:263-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2015.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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"The support I need": women's experiences of social support after having received breast cancer diagnosis and awaiting surgery. Cancer Nurs 2013; 35:E39-47. [PMID: 22134160 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0b013e31823634aa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social support is associated with a better adjustment to breast cancer, whereas inadequate social support increases psychological distress. However, the period between diagnosis and surgery is particularly stressful, and few studies have addressed the significance of social support in this period. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to describe women's individual experiences of social support after having received a breast cancer diagnosis and awaiting surgery. METHODS A qualitative descriptive design was used. Individual semistructured interviews were conducted the day before surgery with 21 women aged 41 to 73 years with newly diagnosed breast cancer at a Norwegian university hospital. RESULTS Methods of qualitative meaning condensation analysis revealed 5 themes: available support, information and advice, care, having confidants, and balancing distance and closeness. Knowing that both family and healthcare professionals were available and caring gave a sense of security. Social support gave strength, although too much could be experienced as difficult and frightening. The women needed a balance between distance from and closeness to their social network. Both professional information and someone professional with whom to talk personally were essential. CONCLUSIONS Social support is an important resource for women with breast cancer but can be a double-edged sword as the network's offered support can sometimes be a burden. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Healthcare professionals could call each patient, encourage the patients to call if they want, and, if preferred, offer face-to-face consultations for women with breast cancer awaiting surgery. This contact should be a supportive, informative, and confidential available resource.
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Gonzaga MA. Listening to the voices: an exploratory study of the experiences of women diagnosed and living with breast cancer in Uganda. Pan Afr Med J 2013; 16:60. [PMID: 24672631 PMCID: PMC3964014 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2013.16.60.2431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2013] [Accepted: 05/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths amongst Ugandan women. Most women live through challenging and emotional experiences having been diagnosed with breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of women diagnosed and living with breast cancer. METHODS This was an exploratory qualitative study using a convenience sample (n = 12) of women confirmed with breast cancer and reporting to the Radiology department for imaging. In-depth individual interviews were conducted and findings were summarized into themes, representative of the participants' lived experiences. RESULTS All women in this study initially went through emotional trauma of living with breast cancer. However, with time, they seemed to accept and cope with their situation. Four major themes summarizing their experiences included: Thought of Death, Strength to live, Loss of female identity and sexuality and Coping mechanisms. CONCLUSION This study provided a unique insight of the experiences of women living with breast cancer. By listening to their narratives, one could see emotional pain, anger, anxiety, strength to live and many more. Although women with breast cancer get clinical management, there is need to design holistic palliative healthcare services including counseling to assist then cope with life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubuuke Aloysius Gonzaga
- Radiology department, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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Salonen P, Tarkka MT, Kellokumpu-Lehtinen PL, Koivisto AM, Aalto P, Kaunonen M. Effect of social support on changes in quality of life in early breast cancer patients: a longitudinal study. Scand J Caring Sci 2012; 27:396-405. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-6712.2012.01050.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Holt CL, Schulz E, Caplan L, Blake V, Southward VL, Buckner AV. Assessing the role of spirituality in coping among African Americans diagnosed with cancer. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2012; 51:507-521. [PMID: 21246282 PMCID: PMC3653318 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-011-9453-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Spirituality plays an important role in cancer coping among African Americans. The purpose of this study was to report on the initial psychometric properties of instruments specific to the cancer context, assessing the role of spirituality in coping. Items were developed based on a theoretical model of spirituality and qualitative patient interviews. The instruments reflected connections to self, others, God, and the world. One hundred African American cancer survivors completed the instruments by telephone. The instruments showed adequate internal reliability, mixed convergent validity, discriminant validity, and interpretable factor structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl L Holt
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
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Joulaee A, Joolaee S, Kadivar M, Hajibabaee F. Living with breast cancer: Iranian women's lived experiences. Int Nurs Rev 2012; 59:362-8. [PMID: 22897187 DOI: 10.1111/j.1466-7657.2012.00979.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women. Women with breast cancer encounter many psychosocial stresses as well as physical problems. AIM To capture the meaning of living with breast cancer from the unique perspective and through the lived experiences of Iranian women with breast cancer that were explained with their own words. METHODS A phenomenological approach was used to explore the meaning of living with breast cancer for Iranian women. The patients' feelings and lived experiences with breast cancer were investigated using semi-structured interviews with probing questions with 13 women between 34 and 67 years old. FINDINGS The participants explained their experiences of living with breast cancer as losing something important, lack of confidence, living with fear, emotional dizziness and the need to be supported with the negative aspects of breast cancer and helped to explore new aspects of life as positive aspects of this event. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Understanding the phenomenon of 'living with breast cancer' seems to be crucial for nurses to help women with breast cancer to find themselves in confronting the consequences of the changes associated with the illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Joulaee
- Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Stang I, Mittelmark MB. Social Support and Interpersonal Stress in Professional-Led Breast Cancer Self-Help Groups. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MENTAL HEALTH PROMOTION 2012. [DOI: 10.1080/14623730.2008.9721759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Drageset S, Lindstrøm TC, Underlid K. Coping with breast cancer: between diagnosis and surgery. J Adv Nurs 2009; 66:149-58. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2009.05210.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Piot-Ziegler C, Sassi ML, Raffoul W, Delaloye JF. Mastectomy, body deconstruction, and impact on identity: a qualitative study. Br J Health Psychol 2009; 15:479-510. [PMID: 19840495 DOI: 10.1348/135910709x472174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This qualitative study aims at understanding the consequences of body deconstruction through mastectomy on corporality and identity in women with breast cancer. DESIGN Nineteen women were contacted through the hospital. All had to undergo mastectomy. Some were offered immediate breast reconstruction, others, because of cancer treatments, had no planned reconstruction. A qualitative reflexive methodological background was chosen. METHOD Women were invited to participate in three semi-structured interviews, one shortly before or after mastectomy, and the other interviews later in their illness courses, after surgery. All interviews were transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was performed. The analysis of the first interview of each woman is presented in this article. RESULTS Mastectomy provokes a painful experience of body deconstruction. Even when immediate reconstruction is proposed, contrasted feelings and dissonance are expressed when comparing the former healthy body to the present challenged body entity. Body transformations are accompanied with experiences of mutilation, strangeness, and modify the physical, emotional social, symbolic and relational dimensions of the woman's gendered identity. Although the opportunity of breast reconstruction is seen as a possible recovery of a lost physical symmetry and body integrity, grieving the past body and integrating a new corporality leads to a painful identity crisis. CONCLUSION With mastectomy, the roots of the woman's identity are challenged, leading to a re-evaluation of her existential values. The consequences of mastectomy transform the woman's corporality and embodiment, and question her identity. Psychological support is discussed in the perspective of our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Piot-Ziegler
- CerPsa - Centre of Research in Health Psychology - Psychology Institute, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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22
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English J, Wilson K, Keller-Olaman S. Health, healing and recovery: Therapeutic landscapes and the everyday lives of breast cancer survivors. Soc Sci Med 2008; 67:68-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2008.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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23
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Abstract
This study examined the effects of a mutual dyadic support intervention between survivors and women newly diagnosed with breast cancer on the quality of life and interpersonal relationships of the participants. This matched-pairs, baseline-postintervention study included 31 survivors and 31 newly diagnosed women with stage I or II breast cancer. The women met in mutually supportive, self-directed dyads at least twice a week for 8 weeks. Instruments included contact Logs and Meaningful Observations Journals. Content analysis of the Logs showed that most dyad interactions were by telephone. Most participant dyadic conversations focused on the health and functioning of newly diagnosed partners, with survivors providing informational and emotional support. Meaningful Observations Journal thematic analysis supported the social exchange theory to describe dyad partner relationships. Most dyadic relationships were supportive, some were reciprocal, and some experienced conflict. Themes varied little between groups and from baseline to postintervention. Themes across time were support of others, health, changing priorities, and faith. Further quantitative study is needed to examine the effects of a dyad support intervention on quality of life in more diverse populations of women with breast cancer. Nurses need to evaluate the existing social-network support systems of patients with breast cancer and consider the need for dyadic peer support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bond Sutton
- College of Nursing, Health Science Center, University of Florida, PO Box 100187, Gainesville, FL 32610-0187, USA.
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24
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Abstract
This article illustrates the experience of 20 postmenopausal women with breast cancer who had received chemotherapy treatment. The interviews were of narrative nature and analyzed with content analysis. Four themes, including 12 subthemes, described these women's life during treatment as a journey from the negative experiences of fear of the unknown, affects on body and mind, to the more positive to get by, and a transformed life. The treatment was compared with an assault on the body, and the loss of their hair was experienced more negatively than the loss of a breast. The women described a feeling of imbalance in their relationships due to lack of support from those close to them. The support from healthcare professionals was experienced both positively and negatively, and many of the women revealed variation in the professional's attitude, knowledge, and empathy. The women who chose not to work during the treatment felt pressure from society and healthcare professionals to get back to work as soon as possible. For many, especially those in a leading position, this was experienced as very difficult. The women expressed a feeling of not being afraid of dying but wanted more time to prepare themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Browall
- Faculty of Health and Caring Sciences, Institute of Nursing, Sahlgrenska Academy at Göteborg University, Göteborg, Sweden.
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25
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Liu JE, Mok E, Wong T. Perceptions of Chinese Cancer Patients of the Favorable and Unfavorable Words Conveyed by Their Social Support Providers. Cancer Nurs 2005; 28:348-54. [PMID: 16192825 DOI: 10.1097/00002820-200509000-00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to describe the experience and expectations of Chinese cancer patients with regard to the favorable and unfavorable words conveyed by their social support providers. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 patients with cancer using a qualitative approach, and the data obtained were analyzed using content analysis. The findings indicated that favorable words inspired patients with cancer and raised their hopes. Such words included words expressing positive confirmation of patients' physical condition and mental status, words of encouragement and consolation, discussions of successful cases, information about advanced medical techniques and developments, practical instructions, emotional support from close relatives, confirmation about previous achievements for the family and about one's career, as well as small talk to distract the patient. Unfavorable words were those that weakened the patients' hopes and self-esteem. They included words expressing negative information and pessimistic attitudes, those indicating an overprotective attitude on the part of close relatives, as well as words expressing commiseration, advice, and an underestimation of the patients' suffering without empathy. The findings provide guidelines for nurses to communicate with patients with cancer verbally in a Chinese cultural context, and outline strategies for communication to meet psychologic needs of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-E Liu
- School of Nursing, the Capital University of Medical Sciences, You An Men, Beijing 100069, People's Republic of China.
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26
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Halkett GKB, Arbon P, Scutter SD, Borg M. The experience of making treatment decisions for women with early stage breast cancer: a diagrammatic representation. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2005; 14:249-55. [PMID: 15952969 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2354.2005.00565.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Women who are making decisions about treatment for early stage breast cancer interact with a number of people when they are considering their treatment options and the impact breast cancer will have on their lives. Previous research has considered patient preferences for involvement in treatment decision-making and proposed factors that may influence breast cancer treatment decisions. However, to date, there has been a paucity of research focusing on the experience of making treatment decisions from the women's perspective. The aim of this paper is to describe the relationships between the women, the medical practitioners and other people, and to consider features that may be influential in the experience of making treatment decisions. Two models are proposed to represent concepts that are linked to the experience of making treatment decisions. The first model proposed has been formulated to represent factors that may influence the treatment decision. The second model highlights aspects of the women's lives that may be affected. This paper discusses concepts that are presented in the conceptual models and makes suggestions for future studies relating to the experience of making treatment decisions for women with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- G K B Halkett
- Division of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Australia.
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27
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Drageset S, Lindstrøm TC. Coping with a possible breast cancer diagnosis: demographic factors and social support. J Adv Nurs 2005; 51:217-26. [PMID: 16033589 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2648.2005.03495.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM This paper reports a study examining the relationships between demographic characteristics, social support, anxiety, coping and defence among women with possible breast cancer. BACKGROUND Awaiting a possible breast cancer diagnosis is an anxiety-provoking situation that demands coping. Social support and demographic characteristics have been reported to influence coping and well-being, but the interconnection is insufficiently understood. DESIGN A survey design was used, and self-administrated questionnaires were returned by a convenience sample of 117 women in Norway who had undergone breast biopsy. The data were collected from September 1998 to February 2000. INSTRUMENTS The instruments consisted of: the Social Provisions Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Scale, Utrecht Coping List and Defence Mechanisms Inventory. In addition, data on age, level of education, employment, marital status, and household status were collected. RESULTS Social support was positively related to instrumental-oriented coping and emotion-focused coping, unrelated to cognitive defence and defensive hostility. Educational level was positively related to instrumental-oriented coping. Educational level, employment and marital status were negatively related to cognitive defence. Educational level was the most important contributor to social support. Attachment and education were the most important contributors to instrumental-oriented coping, with education as the strongest predictor. CONCLUSION Better coping was linked primarily to education, and secondly to attachment. Unemployment, low level of education and single/divorced/widowed status were related to greater use of cognitive defence. Women who used a defensive hostile style tended to receive poor social support. Nurses need to be aware of the influence of demographic characteristics on social support, coping and defence and to identify poor copers, as these patients are most in need of professional support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigrunn Drageset
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Bergen University College, Bergen, Norway.
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Ekman I, Bergbom I, Ekman T, Berthold H, Mahsneh SM. Maintaining normality and support are central issues when receiving chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. Cancer Nurs 2004; 27:177-82. [PMID: 15238804 DOI: 10.1097/00002820-200405000-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to enrich the understanding of patients' perspective of being diagnosed and treated for ovarian cancer. A qualitative approach was used to obtain knowledge and insight into patients' experiences and thoughts. Ten Swedish women, diagnosed with ovarian cancer, participated in a total of 23 interviews on 3 occasions: at the time of diagnosis, during chemotherapy, and after completion of chemotherapy. The results of the interpretation of the interviews were formulated in the form of 3 themes: (1) feeling the same despite radical castrating surgery, (2) accepting chemotherapy, and (3) maintaining normality and support. Suggestions of caring implications from our interpretation of the interview data underscore the need to support these women in learning to cope with their feelings of weakness and anxiety. The findings further indicate the potential in narrative methods to identify important issues in comprehensive cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inger Ekman
- Faculty of Health and Caring Sciences, Institute of Nursing, The Sahlgrenska Academy at Göteborg University, Göteborg, Sweden.
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Landmark BT, Wahl A. Living with newly diagnosed breast cancer: a qualitative study of 10 women with newly diagnosed breast cancer. J Adv Nurs 2002; 40:112-21. [PMID: 12230536 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2648.2002.02346.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this qualitative study was to describe from the perspective of 10 women (aged 39-69 years), their experience of living with breast cancer. BACKGROUND Although there is increasing research into a variety of aspects associated with breast cancer, there is a continuing need for research to increase nurses' understanding of how women experience living with newly diagnosed breast cancer. DESIGN/METHODS Following ethical approval, open-ended interviews were analysed, using methods influenced by Grounded Theory. Verifiability and empirical grounding of the theory was established through use of the constant comparative method. FINDINGS Existential issues arose as an important aspect of living with newly diagnosed breast cancer. The will to live emerged as the central theme. All energy was channelled into a tenacious fight for life. Furthermore, results revealed other aspects in the women's awareness of living with breast cancer, such as their experiences in relation to emotional reactions, bodily physical changes, their female identity, meaningful activities and their social network. CONCLUSIONS An understanding of how women experience their new and changed life situation is important to the support nurses give in the process of healing. Nurses need this knowledge to be better able to assist women and their families in their development of coping strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjorg T Landmark
- Faculty of Health, Buskerud University College, Drammen, Norway.
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