Psychological Distress Among Women With Breast Cancer in Saudi Arabia: A Phenomenological Study.

Abstract

Breast cancer has a negative impact on the psychological status of women.. In Saudi Arabia, there is limited research exploring the experience of women with breast cancer regarding the psychological influence of breast cancer. To explore the experience of women with breast cancer regarding the psychological distress of breast cancer in Saudi Arabia. A descriptive phenomenological study was used. Semi-structured interviews were utilized to gather information from a purposive sample of 11 patients with breast cancer who were receiving treatment at the Princess Noorah Oncology Center (PNOC) at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The study employed thematic analysis to discern significant themes concerning psychological stress. Results: The study revealed that patients' psychological distress was a significant factor influencing their daily lives. This study also revealed four themes: psychological distress from the diagnosis and treatment side effects of breast cancer, daily and work-related activities reduction, the importance of social support, and the coping strategies employed by women with cancer. Breast cancer leads to significant psychological distress. Interventional programs are needed to address the psychological distress that women with cancer experience and provide the necessary support for them to employ positive coping strategies.