Transition of breast cancer diagnosis in Iranian women: a qualitative study

Introduction: The breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and is the second leading cause of death in the age of 35-35 years. Diagnosis of cancer causes a crisis in the individual, family and social life of the patients. Considering the profound effects of this phenomenon on the patient and their family, and in order to provide appropriate care and support to these patients and their families, the effort to know the transition of the diagnosis of this disease is very important, because the successful administration of patients and their treatment, requires a comprehensive understanding of the process of encountering with this diagnosis, its effects and how to problems manage.The aim of this study was to describe and explain the transition process of breast cancer diagnosis in Iranian women.Methods:This is a qualitative study with a phenomenological approach. Sampling method was purposive and continued till data saturation. Fifteen participants (patients, families and treatment team) attended in the study. Data were collected by using in-depth interviewing and were analyzed by Strauss-Corbin method. We tried to analyze qualitative data based on valid criteria.Results: In this study, there were 8 patients, 2 nurses, 2 physicians and 3 members of the patient s family. The experiences of patients with breast cancer and those involved in the disease were reflected in four stages of hiding diagnosis, collecting of information, mobilizing all power, and finally, the overcoming of conditions was reflected.Conclusion: Breast cancer is a disease that affects the patient, family and society and wastes many material and spiritual resources. However, any other painful experience, it can lead to growth and perfection.The treatment team s awareness of the transient diagnosis process recognizes them to be able to play a better role in dealing with these patients.These findings also emphasize the need for education on early detectionand the allocation of more resources to support these patients.Finally, more research is suggested for any concept.

Keywords:

Breast Cancer , Women , Transitional Process , Qualitative Study