Psychosocial impact at diagnosis and coping strategies among women with breast cancer-A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer diagnosis can be devastating and challenging for most women. After the initial shock, they adhere towards adopting multiple strategies that enables them to cope with the situation which directly impacts their day-to-day life. This study seeks to understand the psychological and social impact of diagnosis as well as the coping strategies taken up by these women. Methods: The study uses a phenomenological approach to examine the lives of newly diagnosed women. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 diagnosed women. These interviews were recorded for clarity as well as future reference. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim in the local languages and then translated into English. Data was analysed according to steps described in Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. MAXQDA software was used for coding. Results: Three prominent themes and eight subthemes emerged after data analysis. Stress and uncertainty, financial distress, family distress, and social withdrawal were the initial psychological effects at diagnosis. Family support and religious belief were the main coping strategies identified. Being unaware of signs and symptoms and misdiagnosis were the reasons behind delay in diagnosis. Conclusion: Breast cancer diagnosis impacts the patient's psychological, social, and financial well-being. This consequently burdens not only the patient, but their immediate family as well. This necessitates women to develop different strategies to cope with the situation. Understanding the intricacies of initial breast cancer diagnosis from the perspective of a patient may aid medical professionals in providing holistic cancer therapy.

Keywords

• Breast carcinoma
• In-depth interview
• Phenomenology
• Social adaptation