A phenomenological study: the lived experience of women with breast cancer who are receiving adjuvant therapy

Abstract

Understanding women's experiences with breast cancer and adjuvant therapy is important for nurses in order to help these women deal with a number of important issues that are related to their condition and treatment. There is a growing literature on women's breast cancer experiences, but most of these studies have been done from the perspective of women living in western societies and the findings may not be appropriate to women living in Malaysia. The purpose of this study was to obtain a deeper understanding of the experience of women who are living with breast cancer and who have undergone adjuvant therapy, focusing particularly on changes in the life perspective of these women in Malaya. Using Giorgi's phenomenological method six Malaysian women who had survived breast cancer and had received adjuvant therapy were interviewed in-depth. Through data analysis seven themes were identified. These themes were: 1) Not knowing what to do; 2) The meaning of a diagnosis of breast cancer; 3) Suffering through the treatment; 4) The changing body; 5) Trying to protect others; 6) Finding strength and making changes; and 7) The importance of support. The findings are similar to other research that has been done in this area, but suggests the concern these breast cancer survivors have for others, especially close family members, may prevent them from seeking earlier diagnosis and treatment. The findings also indicate the importance of cultural beliefs on women's experiences with breast cancer. The research has implications for how nursing practice and education is carried out in Malaysia. A number of areas are recommended for further research.