Fear of Recurrence in Turkish Breast Cancer Survivors: A Qualitative Study

ŞENGÜN İNAN F., ÜSTÜN B.

JOURNAL OF TRANSCULTURAL NURSING, vol.30, no.2, pp.146-153, 2019 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 30 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2019
  • Doi Number: 10.1177/1043659618771142
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF TRANSCULTURAL NURSING
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.146-153
  • Keywords: breast cancer survivors, fear of recurrence, qualitative study, WOMEN, EXPERIENCES, ASSOCIATIONS, PREVALENCE, TURKEY, YOUNG, LIFE
  • Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Purpose: Fear of recurrence (FOR) of cancer is a distressing symptom and can negatively affect breast cancer survivors' quality of life and psychological well-being. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore Turkish breast cancer survivors' experiences related to FOR. Design: The data were collected through semistructured interviews, which were conducted with 12 breast cancer survivors. Results: The data were categorized into four themes: the quality of fear, triggers, effects on life, and coping. FOR survivors' lives in multiple aspects, and the women found it difficult to manage their fear. Implications: Nurses should be aware of FOR in survivors during follow-up care. In addition, it is essential to consider the impact of FOR on life, and survivors should be referred to appropriate resources and support services.