Patients’ experiences of family members’ reactions to diagnosis of breast cancer and support in the management of breast cancer in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract Objective The objectives of this study are to describe patients’ experiences of family members’ reactions to diagnosis of breast cancer and investigate the role of family support in the management of breast cancer. Method The study used the descriptive qualitative method in data collection and analysis. Fifteen participants, who were undergoing either radiotherapy or chemotherapy treatment at a private hospital, consented and participated in the study. Data were content analyzed under two specific themes on family members’ reactions and family support received. Findings The findings show that some participants reported negative reactions of some family members, and this affected them negatively. While some participants received support from their families, others did not. Significance of findings The findings of our study show the critical role of family support in the management of breast cancer; therefore, family members should be encouraged to give breast cancer patient the necessary support to help them manage their sick role behavior since their illness has no cure.