Purpose
This study aimed to explore the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the quality of life of breast cancer survivors.
Methods
This qualitative descriptive study included 18 breast cancer survivors who completed cancer treatment within the last five years in Istanbul, Turkey. A directed content analysis was performed using the quality-of-life domains as guiding themes.
Results
The mean age was 51 ± 5.9, and the average months since active treatment were 26.5 ± 9.8 (9–48). Six themes and associated categories are as follows: Physical functioning; Changes in physical activity and weight, new physical symptoms, Role functioning; Work-life, changes in household chores, Emotional functioning; Emotional changes, fear of having the COVID-19 infection, Cognitive Functioning; Risk Perception about the COVID-19 infection, reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic’ measures, Social Functioning; Familial relationship changes, social interactions, General Health/Utilization of Healthcare services; Changes in routine follow-ups, changes in diet.
Conclusion
Breast cancer survivors had different challenges causing new physical and psychological symptoms such as lymphedema, pain, burnout, and anxiety that may have long-term effects on their quality of life.
Turkish oncology nurses have a moderate level of knowledge in cancer genetics. Therefore, educators should develop targeted educational activities in genetics as a part of continuing education programs to enhance nursing practice in cancer care. J Contin Educ Nurs. 2017;48(12):570-576.
Consanguineous marriage is described as the union between a man and woman who share at least one common ancestor (Bittles & Black, 2010b). Consanguineous unions are common in many parts of the world. While it has declined in Western societies, consanguineous marriage is still common in North Africa, Middle East, and western Asia. Of all marriages in Turkey, 23% of them are consanguineous while rates around the
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