Life experiences of women with breast cancer in south western Turkey: A qualitative study

Purpose: This qualitative study explores the experience of women living with breast cancer. Methods: The study was conducted among eight women with ongoing breast cancer chemotherapy treatment, which occurred in an ambulatory unit. The data were collected using semi-structured and in-depth individual interviews. All interviews were tape-recorded, and the results were obtained by analysing the content of the recorded data. Results: Three major themes related to the experiences of women living with breast cancer were identified. They are as follows: (1) needs (the need for spouse and family support, the need to worship, and the need to receive and share information), (2) living with losses (loss of the breast and of one's hair), and (3) changes (changes in one's normal life, change in self-perception, changes in the perception of the value of health, and a greater appreciation for life). Conclusions: This study was conducted to increase awareness concerning women's perceptions of their care and various needs during breast cancer treatment. The results of this study challenge health care providers and educators to be more aware of the difficulties that women face when living with breast cancer. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.