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Khok XW, Ng WHD, Lee AY, Yoon HJ, Devi MK, Johnston B, Ang WHD. Journey towards resiliency: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of cancer patients' experiences. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2024; 71:102640. [PMID: 38917641 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2024.102640] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This systematic review and meta-synthesis seeks to explore cancer patients' journey towards resiliency. The secondary aim of this review is to identify unique resilience protective factors among cancer patients. METHODS A thorough search was conducted in eight electronic databases and the grey literature for published or unpublished qualitative and mixed methods studies. Studies that explored resilience among cancer patients were included. The studies were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skill Programme Checklist. The overall certainty of evidence was further evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation's Confidence in Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research. Themes identified were synthesized using Sandelowski and Barroso's meta-synthesis method. RESULTS A total of 34 studies comprising 987 cancer patients were included in this review. Three themes and nine subthemes were generated from the meta-synthesis. The themes were: (1) Confronting the cancer diagnosis, (2) personal adaptations to cancer, and (3) drawing strength from others. The findings highlighted how individuals overcame cancer adversities through resilience, which is influenced by various factors, including life experiences, social-cultural stigmas, spirituality, social support networks, coping strategies, motivation, acceptance of illness, positive mindset, and engagement with healthcare facilities. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the role of resilience in a cancer patient's journey. It emphasizes on the importance of building resilience in both cancer patients and survivors to effectively overcome the challenges of their cancer diagnosis. These insights are essential for developing interventions that promote resilience and improve existing psychosocial oncology services. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to better understand how resilience evolves and pinpoint factors that can further influence one's resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu Wen Khok
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Wai Hung Daniel Ng
- Department of Nursing, National Cancer Centre, Singapore Health Services, Singapore.
| | - Ang Yun Lee
- Division of Oncology Nursing, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore.
| | - Hyo Jin Yoon
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - M Kamala Devi
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom.
| | - Bridget Johnston
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom.
| | - Wei How Darryl Ang
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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Corso-Amado C, Muñoz-Rodríguez D, Hormiga-Sánchez C. [Self-sense and experiences of physical activity in breast cancer survivors: Qualitative evidence synthesis]. Rehabilitacion (Madr) 2024; 58:100851. [PMID: 38703489 DOI: 10.1016/j.rh.2024.100851] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer has a high incidence rate and a negative impact on women's lives. The practice of physical activity (PA) has shown strong evidence in controlling the side effects associated with the disease and its treatment. However, having an active lifestyle is influenced by socio-health inequities. The objective was to analyze the categories related to the meanings and perceived experiences with PA in breast cancer survivors (BCS). Protocol https://osf.io/7fwbs/. Articles describing the meanings of PA in BCS published after 2010 were included. Fourteen articles were analyzed using line-by-line coding. The emerging categories were: 1)PA as a strategy to re-signify and empower the body. 2)Cancer means a change in PA trajectories. 3)PA is a tool for a healthy and functional body in everyday life.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Corso-Amado
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Bucaramanga, Bucaramanga, Santander, Colombia.
| | - D Muñoz-Rodríguez
- Facultad de Fisioterapia, Universidad CES, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - C Hormiga-Sánchez
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Bucaramanga, Bucaramanga, Santander, Colombia
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3
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Moran HK, Spoozak L, Brooks JV. "A Mission and Purpose to Make Some Sense out of Everything That Was Happening to Me": A Qualitative Assessment of Mentorship in a Peer-to-Peer Gynecologic Cancer Program. JOURNAL OF CANCER EDUCATION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR CANCER EDUCATION 2024:10.1007/s13187-024-02443-8. [PMID: 38691304 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-024-02443-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between mentorship, survivorship, and identity construction in people who have had gynecologic cancer and participated as mentors in a peer mentorship program. A qualitative descriptive study was designed, and hour-long semi-structured interviews with peer mentors were conducted. Interviews investigated how serving as a peer mentor influenced understanding of mentors' own cancer experiences. Thematic analysis was then conducted. All authors open-coded a subset of interviews to develop a codebook, which was then used to code the remaining transcripts. This qualitative inductive analysis of over 7 h of data was managed with NVivo 12. Seven peer mentor participants (N = 7) were interviewed. Four main themes emerged: serving in the social role of mentor gave participants (i) a sense of daily direction in their lives, (ii) an opportunity to give back to others in the cancer community, (iii) an explanatory reason for their cancer journey, and (iv) the ability to reify their own status as survivor. Providing support through a peer mentorship program helped our participants make meaning in their own cancer experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Kang Moran
- University of Kansas School of Medicine, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Lori Spoozak
- University of Kansas Cancer Center, 400 Cambridge St, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, USA
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, USA
| | - Joanna Veazey Brooks
- University of Kansas Cancer Center, 400 Cambridge St, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
- Division of Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, USA.
- Department of Population Health, University of Kansas School of Medicine, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
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Güvener YÖ. The Significance of Religion and Spirituality Among Turkish Women Surviving Breast Cancer Without Treatment: A Qualitative Study. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2024:10.1007/s10943-024-02039-y. [PMID: 38619687 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-024-02039-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The health of breast cancer survivors is a global concern. It is crucial to adopt a holistic approach when understanding their journey from illness to wellness in order to ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible. This study focused on the experiences of Muslim women who had overcome breast cancer and were adapting to life post-treatment. Snowball sampling was used to select the participants for this qualitative study. Fifteen women who had successfully completed breast cancer treatment and been declared cancer-free were interviewed. These interviews were semi-structured, using open-ended questions to explore their experiences in-depth. The interviews were conducted by phone, and the data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The study identified four main themes, nine subthemes, and 41 codes. The main themes were as follows: (a) a life changed by cancer and the difficulties encountered; (b) transition from active treatment to treatment-free living; (c) coping mechanisms; and (d) future hopes and expectations. The findings highlighted the survivors' desire to move past their experience of cancer and normalize their lives, as well as emphasizing their need for support. The participants shared detailed accounts of their journey, the obstacles they encountered during this transition, and the critical role of religion and spirituality in overcoming these challenges. Understanding and effectively managing the experiences of women after breast cancer treatment is vital not only for improving survival rates but also for facilitating their healing process.
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Díaz-Heredia LP, Bueno-Robles LS, Bejarano Beltrán MP, Pardo Torres MP. Experiences of Women With Breast Cancer and Their Partners in Achieving Coherence as a Couple During the Disease Journey. Nurs Womens Health 2024; 28:135-142. [PMID: 38412974 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2023.10.005] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the experiences of female patients with breast cancer and their partners in achieving coherence as a couple during the disease journey. DESIGN Qualitative study. SETTING Colombia, South America. PARTICIPANTS Women diagnosed with breast cancer in the last 2 years and their intimate partners with whom they lived during the 6 months before study enrollment. In total, 16 heterosexual couples participated in individual interviews and focus groups. METHOD Interviews and focus groups were analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS Four themes were identified: The Diagnosis: A Moment That Destabilizes the Couple, Couple's Sexuality: Seeking the Best Conditions Between Desire and Reality, Generating Mutually Supportive Dynamics in the Face of Cancer, and The Transformation of a Negative Situation Into a Positive One and Achieving Coherence Within the Couple. The first theme represents the initial moment of uncertainty and emotional reactions due to the confirmation of the diagnosis of breast cancer. The second captures the physical and emotional effects in the couple's sexuality generated by the treatment and diagnosis as well as the strategies used to strengthen the couple's relationship. The third reflects how the couple's support is based on commitment, companionship, and the performance of daily actions. The last describes how the adaptation process allows couples experiencing the disease to achieve coherence. CONCLUSION These findings highlight that couples experiencing breast cancer can transform the negative situation into an opportunity to strengthen their relationship by achieving coherence. Future research is needed to investigate the antecedents, attributes, and outcomes related to couples' coherence. Moreover, health professionals should perform periodic assessments on the dynamics, coping strategies, and resources at couples' disposal to help promote couples' adaptation and coherence.
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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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Skyttä M, Pietilä AM, Stolt M, Kangasniemi M. Identifying personal health-related resources of women with breast cancer for nursing: An integrative review. Scand J Caring Sci 2023; 37:884-896. [PMID: 34908177 DOI: 10.1111/scs.13054] [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: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Personal health-related resources are essential for women with breast cancer, as these help them to maintain their own health and well-being during different phases of their illness. The purpose of this integrative review was to identify, describe and synthetise what personal health-related resources have already been identified for this patient group. We carried out an integrative review to find papers that focused on personal health-related resources for women with breast cancer aged 18-64 years. The search covered 1 January 2005 to 31 May 2021 and was carried out using the CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases. It was limited to peer-reviewed scientific papers with abstracts published in English and 23 papers met the inclusion criteria. The data were analysed using content analysis. Personal health-related resources for women with breast cancer consisted of three different, but inherently interconnected, categories of personal strengths, person-centred cancer care and social support from and involvement in their cultural community. Personal health-related resources for women with breast cancer were multifaceted. Women need nursing support to identify and use these resources and future studies are needed to strengthen how they are measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Skyttä
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Cancer Society of Finland, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna-Maija Pietilä
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Minna Stolt
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Mari Kangasniemi
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Satakunta Regional Hospital, Pori, Finland
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Zhang Y, Ding Y, Chen X, Li Y, Li J, Hu X. Effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy on psychological flexibility, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and quality of life of patients with cancer: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Worldviews Evid Based Nurs 2023; 20:582-592. [PMID: 37194163 DOI: 10.1111/wvn.12652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current studies have revealed that acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) can alleviate the adverse effects of cancer; however, its effectiveness on the psychological flexibility, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and quality of life of patients with cancer remains unclear. AIMS The aims of this study were to identify the effectiveness of ACT on psychological flexibility, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and quality of life of patients with cancer, and to explore moderators. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, CINAHL, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang electronic databases were searched from inception to September 29, 2022. The Cochrane Collaboration's risk-of-bias assessment tool II and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach were used to evaluate evidence certainty. The data were analyzed using R Studio. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022361185). RESULTS The study included 19 relevant studies (1643 patients) published between 2012 and 2022. The pooled results showed that ACT significantly improved psychological flexibility (mean difference [MD] = -4.22, 95% CI [-7.86, -0.58], p = .02) and quality of life (Hedges' g = 0.94, 95% CI [0.59, 1.29], Z = 5.31, p < .01) but did not significantly improve fatigue (Hedges' g = -0.03, 95% CI [-0.24, 0.18], p = .75) or sleep disturbance (Hedges' g = -0.26, 95% CI [-0.82, 0.30], p = .37) in patients with cancer. Additional analyses revealed a 3-month sustainable effect on psychological flexibility (MD = -4.36, 95% CI [-8.67, -0.05], p < .05), and moderation analysis showed that intervention duration (β = -1.39, p < .01) and age (β = 0.15, p = .04) moderated the effects of ACT on psychological flexibility and sleep disturbance, respectively. LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION Acceptance and commitment therapy demonstrates effectiveness for psychological flexibility and quality of life of patients with cancer, but there is a lack of evidence regarding its effects on fatigue and sleep disturbance. In clinical practice, ACT should be designed in more detail and rounded to achieve better results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalin Zhang
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuxin Ding
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoli Chen
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunhuan Li
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Juejin Li
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaolin Hu
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Bernacchi V, LeBaron V, Porter K, Zoellner J, DeGuzman P. Barriers and facilitators to resilience for rural cancer survivors during COVID-19. Public Health Nurs 2023; 40:595-602. [PMID: 37079434 DOI: 10.1111/phn.13200] [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: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify the barriers and facilitators of resilience for rural cancer survivors during COVID-19. A descriptive qualitative study design was used to achieve the study objected. We recruited six posttreatment cancer survivors, four caregivers of cancer survivors, and one survivor who also identified as a caregiver, all from rural Southwest Virginia. Participants completed 60-90 minute virtual interviews that were recorded, transcribed, and verified in Dedoose qualitative software. Data was analyzed using an inductive and deductive coding strategies, and thematic analysis was used to develop key themes. Four key themes emerged from the data: 1) Religious faith is a primary source of resilience, 2) Spiritual cancer care strengthens resilience, 3) Virtual platforms provide critical connections to faith communities, and 4) Fearful and fatalistic cancer beliefs reduce resilience. The findings provide critical descriptive evidence that faith facilitates resilience for rural cancer survivors, while rural cultural norms of fearful and fatalistic cancer beliefs reduce resilience. In the context of COVID-19, rural survivors prioritize utilizing virtual support groups to strengthen their resilience. Nurses should incorporate a spiritual assessment into survivorship care, and guide survivors to existing virtual support groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Bernacchi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Virginia LeBaron
- School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Kathleen Porter
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Jamie Zoellner
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Pam DeGuzman
- School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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Raffard S, Michel A, Bayard S. Imagining one's personal future in women undergoing treatment for breast cancer: an exploratory study. Memory 2023; 31:1089-1097. [PMID: 37286332 DOI: 10.1080/09658211.2023.2221875] [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: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
We assessed self-defining future projections (SDFPs) in women with breast cancer (BC) and their relationships with disease characteristics and quality of life. Forty women with BC in the course of treatment and 50 controls were asked to generate SDFPs and completed questionnaires for depression and anxiety symptoms and quality of life. There was no group difference regarding specificity, meaning making, probability of produced future events, and the experience of a sense of personal continuity within SDFPs. BC patients' SDFPs were less distant in the future and characterised by more narratives about life threatening events and fewer narratives about future achievements. Chemotherapy was related to narratives about life threatening events and BC. Patients undergoing breast reconstruction reported fewer life-threatening events related to their cancer. Lower quality of life was associated with lower narratives about relationships in patients. Women undergoing treatment for BC envision their future in a less optimistic way with more narratives about life threatening events and a reduced time perspective that varied according to the type of treatment. Self-continuity and ability to imagine future specific events were preserved in patients, which are important processes helping individuals to cope with life difficulties and find meaning and direction in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Raffard
- Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Montpellier, France
- University Department of Adult Psychiatry, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Aude Michel
- Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, Montpellier, France
- Montpellier Institut du Sein, Clinique Clémentville, Montpellier, France
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"More than conquerors": a qualitative analysis of war metaphors for patients with cancer. Support Care Cancer 2022; 31:87. [PMID: 36573958 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07552-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Meaning-making is fundamental to the cancer experience and communication within cancer care is saturated with metaphors. The objective of this study was to better understand the impact and function of war metaphors among patients with cancer. METHODS Patients at the Duke Cancer Center were purposively sampled for inclusion based on type and stage of their cancer. Each patient underwent a semi-structured interview to explore their use of metaphors in their lived experience with cancer. Qualitative interviews broadly explored two key areas of interest: (1) frequency and use of metaphors to describe cancer diagnosis, treatment, or survivorship; (2) function and impact of the war metaphor on the patient experience of cancer. RESULTS Fifteen participants with either breast, lung, or colorectal cancer were interviewed. Most patients used metaphor themes of journey, war, and mystery to describe their cancer. All patients with non-metastatic disease used war metaphors and described how these metaphors facilitated meaning-making by promoting positivity and situating cancer within a larger life story. The few patients who did not use war metaphors had metastatic disease, and they explained that war metaphors were unhelpful due to feeling a lack of control over their metastatic disease and outcomes. CONCLUSION The war metaphor should remain an integral part of cancer care. Disregarding war metaphors robs patients of an important framework for meaning-making-one that may promote strength, continuity, and resilience in navigating cancer.
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12
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Zhu P, Wu Q, Liu X, Chen C, Ji Q, Shang X. Effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy on Posttraumatic Growth and Quality of Life in Patients With Breast Cancer Under Early Chemotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Holist Nurs Pract 2022; Publish Ahead of Print:00004650-990000000-00012. [PMID: 36001131 DOI: 10.1097/hnp.0000000000000538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Posttraumatic growth (PTG) in patients with breast cancer has been reported. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) has been found to be effective in improving the psychological well-being during cancer care. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of MBSR on the levels of PTG, perceived social support, and quality of life. A sample of 101 participants who experienced early chemotherapy enrolled in an MBSR group (n = 50) and a routine care group (n = 51) for 8 weeks. Their postintervention data were combined with preintervention data through a bundle of questionnaires reporting levels of PTG, perceived social support, and quality of life. MBSR showed the prominent validity in raising the levels of PTG and increasing in perceived social support and quality of life from pre- to posttreatment. MBSR improved the levels of PTG, perceived social support, and quality of life in patients with breast cancer in early chemotherapy. In conclusion, MBSR may help to optimize the positive psychological processes that will be targeted to maximize the efficacy of treatment for future cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingting Zhu
- School of Nursing, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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13
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Porro B, Broc G, Baguet‐Marin F, Cousson‐Gélie F. A questionable version of the
Post‐Traumatic
growth inventory—Short form in women diagnosed with breast cancer. Br J Health Psychol 2022; 27:1314-1329. [DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bertrand Porro
- Université d'Angers, Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Research Institute for Environmental and Occupational Health), UMR_S 1085, SFR ICAT, SIRIC ILIAD Angers France
- Psychology Laboratory EPSYLON EA Univ. Paul Valéry Montpellier 3 Montpellier France
| | - Guillaume Broc
- Psychology Laboratory EPSYLON EA Univ. Paul Valéry Montpellier 3 Montpellier France
| | - Fanny Baguet‐Marin
- Psychology Laboratory EPSYLON EA Univ. Paul Valéry Montpellier 3 Montpellier France
- Epidaure, Prevention Department of the Montpellier Cancer Institute SIRIC Montpellier Cancer Montpellier Cedex 5 France
| | - Florence Cousson‐Gélie
- Psychology Laboratory EPSYLON EA Univ. Paul Valéry Montpellier 3 Montpellier France
- Epidaure, Prevention Department of the Montpellier Cancer Institute SIRIC Montpellier Cancer Montpellier Cedex 5 France
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14
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Nilsen M, Stalsberg R, Sand K, Haugan G, Reidunsdatter RJ. Meaning Making for Psychological Adjustment and Quality of Life in Older Long-Term Breast Cancer Survivors. Front Psychol 2021; 12:734198. [PMID: 34650491 PMCID: PMC8510631 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.734198] [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: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to explore in depth the meaning and meaning discrepancies among older Norwegian breast cancer survivors in light of the meaning making model by Park (2013). Design: We utilized a qualitative design collecting data using semi-structured interviews of 23 elderly breast cancer survivors 7–8 years after treatment. The interviews followed an interview guide structured along three main themes: “everyday life activities,” “follow-up-care experiences” and “health status and QoL.” Results: Several health problems were reported by the women in the aftermaths of the disease, such as sleeping problems, pain, and fatigue—including cognitive and emotional impairments. Meaning discrepancies were concentrated on six main themes: shifting perspectives and priorities, growing sense of autonomy, widening the limits of normality, dissociating oneself from the disease, embracing alternative health services, and feeling lucky. The women engaged in a wide range of coping techniques as efforts to change global meaning, and to develop a more positive view on the cancer experience. Common coping efforts across the six main themes were social comparison, denial, positive reappraisal, problem-focused coping, and revaluing ordinary events. Conclusion: Many cancer patients report on unmet needs for help with their meaning making, and the facilitation of meaning making processes is rarely included in the follow-up care of cancer survivors. The findings of the present study may help health care professionals provide care for women who have experienced breast cancer. The concrete knowledge of common coping efforts in the meaning making process may contribute to the development of future interventions and for gaining a deeper understanding for older survivors of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Nilsen
- Department of Social Work, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ragna Stalsberg
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kari Sand
- Department of Health Research, SINTEF Digital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Gørill Haugan
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Randi Johansen Reidunsdatter
- Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
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15
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Luo Z, Chen C, Xu W, Wang P, Wang Y. A qualitative study on the experience of empowerment from the perspectives of breast cancer survivors. Nurs Open 2021; 8:2429-2438. [PMID: 34313022 PMCID: PMC8363359 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.1000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To describe the experience of empowerment for breast cancer survivors in order to increase quality of life after treatment. DESIGN We adopted a qualitative design in this study. METHODS A qualitative descriptive approach guided by interpretive description methodology as the theoretical framework was used in this study. Semi-structured group and individual interviews were conducted with eleven female Chinese breast cancer survivors (mean age 54.18 years, 100% female). RESULTS Many survivors reported that they continued to experience disease-related discomfort from the physiological aspect, but they use multiple ways to improve quality of life. Breast cancer survivors experienced empowerment after treatment. Empowerment mainly required three components: a belief in good health, capability of self-management and acquisition of a good social support system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zebing Luo
- Shantou University Medical CollegeShantouChina
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and TreatmentShantouChina
| | - Chujun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and TreatmentShantouChina
- Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical CollegeShantouChina
| | - Wanzhu Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and TreatmentShantouChina
- Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical CollegeShantouChina
| | - Peiru Wang
- Shantou University Medical CollegeShantouChina
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and TreatmentShantouChina
| | - Yiru Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Diagnosis and TreatmentShantouChina
- Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical CollegeShantouChina
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Shi G, Shi T, Liu Y, Cai Y. Relationships between dyadic coping, intimate relationship and post-traumatic growth in patients with breast cancer: A cross-sectional study. J Adv Nurs 2021; 77:4733-4742. [PMID: 34227131 DOI: 10.1111/jan.14946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the relationships and pathways between dyadic coping, intimate relationship and post-traumatic growth (PTG) in Chinese patients with breast cancer. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. METHODS Between November 2019 and November 2020, 133 patients with breast cancer who received therapy in tertiary grade-A hospitals at Dalian, China completed questionnaires including demographic and clinical questionnaires, Locke-Wallace Marriage Adjustment Test, Chinese version of the Dyadic Coping Inventory and Chinese version of the Post-traumatic Growth Inventory. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the pathways. RESULTS Dyadic coping was positively interrelated with PTG and intimate relationship (r = .355, p < .01; r = .213, p < .05); intimate relationship was negatively interrelated with PTG (r = -.207, p < .05). The structural equation model demonstrated adequate fit. Dyadic coping and intimate relationship directly affected PTG (β = .469, p < .05; β = -.309, p < .05). Dyadic coping indirectly affected PTG through intimate relationship (β = -.066, p < .05). CONCLUSIONS Dyadic coping was a stimulus factor, but intimate relationship was an obstructive factor in enhancing PTG for the Chinese patients with breast cancer. Furthermore, intimate relationship may have significant mediating effects in the link between dyadic coping and PTG. Strategies that improve dyadic coping level and avoid excessive intimacy relationships between couples contribute to the development of PTG among patients with breast cancer. IMPACT The research provides new ideas and intervention entry points for global nurses and psychotherapists so that they can enact and implement targeted PTG intervention plans for patients with breast cancer worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genya Shi
- Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Tieying Shi
- Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yingjie Cai
- Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Nursing Department, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Casanova F, Knaul FM, Rodriguez NM. Harvesting Health Knowledge: Breast Cancer Perceptions in the South Florida Latinx Farmworker Community. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:1423-1436. [PMID: 33834911 PMCID: PMC8277692 DOI: 10.1177/10497323211003542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
South Florida agricultural regions, home to Latinx immigrant farmworkers, report higher rates of late-stage breast cancer diagnosis than national, state, and county-level averages. We conducted a community-based qualitative study on the needs, health knowledge gaps, barriers to breast cancer screening, and the role of community health workers (CHWs) in supporting the community's access to early detection services. We conducted three CHW focus groups (FGs) (n = 25) and in-depth interviews (n = 15), two FGs (n = 18) and in-depth interviews (n = 3) with farmworker community members, and informal interviews with cancer clinicians (n = 7). Using a grounded theory approach, five core themes regarding the community's barriers to accessing health care services emerged: (a) lack of information; (b) social and economic barriers; (c) cultural factors; (d) fears and mistrust; and (e) psychosocial concerns. Findings yield implications for community health practice, the potential impact of CHWs, and the production of breast cancer education to improve health equity along with the care continuum.
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