Lived Experiences of Female Breast Cancer Survivors during the Treatment Phase: The Case of Princess Marina Hospital

Baraedi Winnie Sento

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i05.54589

Lived Experiences of Female Breast Cancer Survivors during the Treatment Phase: The Case of Princess Marina Hospital

Author(s)	Ms. Baraedi Winnie Sento
Country	Botswana
Abstract	Background and Aim: Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent cancer among women globally, with 7.8 million survivors recorded within the past five years by 2020. It remains the fifth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Advances in screening and early detection have significantly improved survival rates, with approximately 86–89% of BC patients living beyond five years after diagnosis. As survival rates improve, more women live with the physical, psychological, social, and sexual consequences of BC and its treatment. This study explored the lived experiences of women diagnosed with BC at Princess Marina Hospital (PMH) in Botswana, examined their coping strategies, and identified potential social work interventions to address their needs. Methods: A qualitative design was employed, involving three participant groups: female BC patients/survivors receiving care at PMH, healthcare workers (HCWs) at the adult oncology ward, and social workers at PMH. Data collection occurred between August and November 2023. In-depth interviews were conducted with BC survivors and HCWs, and a focus group discussion was held with social workers. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring patterns and themes. Results: Fifteen female BC survivors participated, with a median age of 56 years. Most (60%) were aged between 40 and 59 years, nearly half were married, and others were widowed or single. Educational attainment was predominantly at the secondary level (67%), with minimal representation from primary, tertiary, or university levels. Employment status varied: 53% were unemployed, 27% employed, 20% self-employed, and 13% unable to work due to illness or disability. Participants reported diverse challenges including fear of recurrence, treatment side effects, financial constraints, altered body image, and changes in social and intimate relationships. Coping strategies included reliance on family and community support, spirituality, engagement in physical activity, and use of cosmetic aids. Conclusion: Like in other parts of the world experience physical, psychological, social, spiritual and sexuality challenges. While BC diagnosis and treatment interventions seem to be effective, there is need for interventions focussing on physical, psychological, social, spiritual and sexuality aspects of female BC survivors.
Keywords	Breast Cancer, Treatment
Field	Sociology > Health
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 5, September-October 2025
Published On	2025-10-22
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i05.54589

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Lived Experiences of Female Breast Cancer Survivors during the Treatment Phase: The Case of Princess Marina Hospital

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