Mental health and quality of life following breast cancer diagnosis in patients seen at a tertiary care hospital in Nairobi, Kenya: A qualitative study

Mental health challenges are common following cancer diagnosis, negatively impacting treatment and quality of life for breast cancer (BC) patients. This pilot study provides an understanding of the impacts of BC diagnosis and care experiences on the mental health of patients seen at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. We conducted 40 in-depth interviews, including 10 women with newly diagnosed BC, 10 women with metastatic BC, 10 family members and 10 healthcare professionals. Data were transcribed, translated into English as needed and coded using Dedoose software. Following BC diagnosis, it was reported that patients faced various physical, social, psychological and spiritual factors affecting their mental health and quality of life. Our interviews with each group indicated that BC patients experienced feelings of stress, anxiety and depression related to treatments and accompanying side effects. Disclosure concerns, financial impacts, relationship strain and negative outlooks on life were common among BC patients. The findings indicate that BC diagnosis and care experiences influence mental health in this population. With this basis, understanding and addressing the mental health challenges of BC patients is crucial to improve mental health and quality of life.

Unpacking the psychological and physical well-being of Ghanaian patients with breast cancer

This study explored the psychological and physical well-being of 12 Ghanaian women diagnosed with breast cancer, aged between 22 and 69 years. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted with participants to understand their lived experiences following their diagnosis and treatment. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcripts. Findings revealed that patients' psychological and physical well-being relative to breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are marked by (a) persistent pain, (b) concerns with physical appearance, (c) a willingness to lose a breast for survival, (d) positive religious coping, and (e) posttraumatic growth (i.e., positive psychological changes in the aftermath of diagnosis or treatment). The findings suggest that recognising patients' concerns with pain, physical changes, and the will to lose a breast to survive in the care continuum may yield public health dividends. Moreover, the findings highlight the need for individualised psychotherapeutic interventions to assist the patients to deal with the disease in the aftermath of their diagnosis and treatment.