Published Paper Details:

Background Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent form of cancer among women in developing countries. By of 2020, there were 7.8 million women breast cancer survivors in the past 5 years, making BC, making it the world's most prevalent cancer (1). With more BC survivors and some on treatment to prolong their lives, there is likely to have more women dealing with diverse experiences relating to their psychological, physical, sexual etc. This study investigated and documented lived experiences of women diagnosed with and receiving treatment for BC at Princess Marina Hospital (PMH). The study also identified coping strategies implored by women BC survivors as well as sought to explore possible social work intervention strategies which may be used to address challenges that may be faced by such women. Methods Data was collected from three types of groups being female breast cancer patient or survivors receiving care at Princess Marina Hospital, health care workers at the adult oncology ward at PMH and Social Workers at PMH. Data collection occurred between August and November 2023. In-depth interviews were conducted with female BC patients/survivors and HCWs while a focus group discussion was conducted with Social Workers. Results Data collected from female breast cancer survivors (N15), health care workers (N5) and social workers (N4) at PMH. In-depth interviews were conducted with female BC patients/survivors and HCWs while a focus group discussion was conducted with Social Workers. Data collected from the three groups seemed to corroborate each other in terms of what is perceived to be experienced by female BC patients and survivors, coping strategies as well as psychosocial services available for BC patients and survivors. Conclusion Like in other parts of the world experience physical, psychological, social, spiritual and sexuality challenges. While BC diagnosis and treatment interventions seem to be effective, there is need for interventions focussing on physical, psychological, social, spiritual and sexuality aspects of female BC survivors.