Lived Experiences of Women Awaiting a Breast Cancer Diagnosis: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study; كيفي پديدارشناسي تجارب زيسته زنان در انتظار تشخيص سرطان پستان: يك مطالعه Publisher



H Jafarimanesh HADI ; A Yavari ALI ; Zm Goudarzi Zahra MOAZAMI ; M Imeni MALIHE ; An Nasrabadi Alireza NIKBAKHT
Source: Iranian Journal of Breast Diseases Published:2025

Abstract

Introduction: Waiting for a breast cancer diagnosis is one of the most challenging and stressful experiences a woman may face in her lifetime. A deep understanding of the lived experiences of women in this situation can play a crucial role in policymaking and therapeutic planning. Accordingly, this phenomenological study was conducted to explore the lived experiences of women awaiting a breast cancer diagnosis. Methods: This research is a qualitative, interpretive phenomenological study conducted with a Heideggerian approach to gain an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of women awaiting a breast cancer diagnosis. Participants were selected using purposive sampling based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. Data analysis was performed using the methods of Diekelmann, Tanner, and Allen, and MAXQDA version 20 software was utilized for data management. To ensure the accuracy and scientific quality of the study, Lincoln and Guba's four criteria (credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability) were applied during the analysis. Results: This study included 12 women with a mean age of 56.08 years (range, 27-78 years). The analysis of the data obtained from the interviews led to the identification of five main themes regarding women's experiences while awaiting a diagnosis after an abnormal breast screening. These themes included psychological turmoil, the trace of illness in everyday life, stages of adaptation, resilience pathways, and life-saving connections. Conclusion: The study revealed that waiting for a diagnosis after an abnormal breast screening has profound psychological and emotional impacts on women. However, the use of resilience strategies, providing clear and accurate information, along with reducing waiting times and offering counseling services, can help improve the emotional and psychological experience of patients. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.