A qualitative study on the psycho-oncological experiences of women navigating breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship in Ethiopia.

Abstract

Purpose: To understand the lived experiences of Ethiopian women who self-identify as breast cancer survivors, particularly facilitators, and barriers to engaging with care in biomedical settings.

Methods: Between November 2022 and January 2023, six focus group discussions were conducted in Amharic with 44 breast cancer patients and survivors in Adama, Ethiopia, stratified based on HIV status and participation in available peer support groups at their treatment hospital. Thematic analysis was conducted, with methodology reported in accordance with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative research checklist.

Results: Our analysis identified four key areas along the continuum of care: (1) recognition of BC-related symptoms, (2) seeking clinical care for BC symptoms, (3) adherence to BC treatment plans, and (4) coping strategies during ongoing care. Known facilitators for engagement in BC care included health education programming as well as emotional and financial support from loved ones and fellow survivors. However, participants described several barriers to clinical care such as the perception that BC is a death sentence, conflict between spiritual/traditional and clinical approaches to care, and fragmentation of care across multiple health facilities and providers.

Conclusions: Based on some of the identified barriers to care, future efforts to enhance cancer care in Ethiopian settings should consider national awareness campaigns for BC to dispel local myths and misconception about BC, formal partnerships between faith-based community leaders and health care providers, and the use of family- and community-centered models of cancer care in biomedical settings.

Implications for cancer survivors: Recognition of psycho-oncological challenges to accessing clinical care for BC and providing opportunities for peer support and positive spirituality to navigate these challenges may improve patients' experiences in the Ethiopian biomedical system and reduce the potential negative experiences of future patients.