Illness Perception in Breast Cancer Patients: A Mixed-Method Research

Background: Breast cancer is perceived as a fatal disease causing physical, psychological, and sexual problems. The perception of the individuals regarding their disease affects the treatment process and physical/mental/social health. Therefore, identifying the perception of patients regarding breast cancer may help to reduce anxiety and improve quality of life.

Aim: This study was conducted to investigate the perceptions of patients with breast cancer regarding illness.

Methods: This mixed-method study was carried out between June and September 2019 at the oncology clinic of a university hospital. The study sample consisted of 17 patients. The data were collected face to face using a semi-structured interview form and the illness perception questionnaire. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis, and the main themes were determined.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 55.47±15.23, the disease stage of four of the patients was stage I, nine received chemotherapy, and six had metastasis The patients obtained the highest mean score from personal management (20.52±2.03) and the lowest mean score (10.64±3.87) from the duration (cyclical) perception. It was found that the patients saw psychological attributions as the cause of their illness. The content analysis determined six main themes and eight sub-themes. The themes were body image, spirituality, social/professional support, fear/sadness, awareness of early diagnosis, and role change.

Conclusion: It was concluded that the patients perceived breast cancer as a chronic disease with negative consequences. It was also determined that the patients believed in the cyclical nature of the disease, and their negative emotions provoked by the illness were high.