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BMC Cancer
Published in: BMC Cancer 1/2024

Open Access 01-12-2024 | Breast Cancer | Research

Breast cancer survivorship needs: a qualitative study

Authors: Rahimeh Khajoei, Payam Azadeh, Sima ZohariAnboohi, Mahnaz Ilkhani, Fatemah Heshmati Nabavi

Published in: BMC Cancer | Issue 1/2024

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Abstract

Background

Breast cancer rates and the number of breast cancer survivors have been increasing among women in Iran. Effective responses from healthcare depend on appropriately identifying survivors’ needs. This study investigated the experience and needs of breast cancer survivors in different dimensions.

Methods

In this qualitative content analysis, semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted from April 2023 to July 2023. Data saturation was achieved after interviewing 16 breast cancer survivors (BCSs) and four oncologists using purposive sampling. Survivors were asked to narrate their experiences about their needs during the survivorship. Data were analyzed with an inductive approach in order to extract the themes.

Results

Twenty interviews were conducted. The analysis focused on four central themes: (1) financial toxicity (healthcare costs, unplanned retirement, and insurance coverage of services); (2) family support (emotional support, Physical support); (3) informational needs (management of side effects, management of uncertainty, and balanced diet); and (4) psychological and physical issues (pain, fatigue, hot flashes, and fear of cancer recurrence).

Conclusions

This study provides valuable information for designing survivorship care plans. Identifying the survivorship needs of breast cancer survivors is the first and most important step, leading to optimal healthcare delivery and improving quality of life. It is recommended to check the financial capability of patients and take necessary measures for patients with financial problems. Additionally, support sources should be assessed and appropriate. Psychological interventions should be considered for patients without a support source. Consultation groups can be used to meet the information needs of patients. For patients with physical problems, self-care recommendations may also be useful in addition to doctors’ orders.
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Metadata
Title
Breast cancer survivorship needs: a qualitative study
Authors
Rahimeh Khajoei
Payam Azadeh
Sima ZohariAnboohi
Mahnaz Ilkhani
Fatemah Heshmati Nabavi
Publication date
01-12-2024
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Cancer / Issue 1/2024
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2407
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-024-11834-5

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