Experiences of women with breast cancer disclosing cancer-related cognitive impairment symptoms to health professionals: a Systematic review and meta-synthesis

Abstract

Objective Cancer-related cognitive impairment involves changes in cognitive domains among people diagnosed with cancer. This review aimed to explore and synthesize the experiences of women with breast cancer disclosing cancer-related cognitive impairment symptoms to health professionals. Methods A systematic review and meta-synthesis was conducted to generate synthesized findings from existing literature. Six databases were searched from inception until mid-October 2022, with eligible studies appraised using the QualSyst Quality Assessment Checklist. Results Three synthesized findings were generated from eight included studies. Findings highlight that women initiated conversations disclosing symptoms and frequently experienced dismissal or minimization from health professionals. Women rarely received information about cognitive impairment symptoms before treatment. Women reported that health professionals could be more involved in managing cognitive impairment symptoms. Conclusion This meta-synthesis highlights the importance of health professionals providing information before treatment and following up on cognitive impairment symptoms.