Lived Experiences of Breast Cancer Survivors and Renal Transplant Recipients: A Comparative Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Advancements in biomedical technology have resulted in early detection and treatment with consequent increased survival rates of breast cancer survivors (BCS) and renal transplants recipients (RTRs). The main focus of survival research is not only limited to clinical aspects but extended to psychosocial domains that has increased treatment efficacy and health outcomes. Since both BCS and RTRs go through a near-death experience and resume to a more normal life after successful treatment, this study aimed to explore a deeper understanding and insight into their lived experiences. The study compared both groups and how they interpret their lived experiences post recovery. The qualitative inquiry used a phenomenological approach where participants were selected via criterion sampling. In total, 12 middle aged (40-50 years) women (6 BCS and 6 RTRs) were interviewed. The transcripts were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Approach (IPA). The reported lived experiences provided meaningful insights dominated by three major themes and eight sub themes that included Acceptance (Initial Impact of Illness, Fear and Anxiety), Coping Styles (Religious and Spiritual Coping, Gratitude, Social Support and Relationships), and Altered Life Orientation and Future Concerns (Adaptation, Future Concerns about Health and Well-being, Post-traumatic Growth). The findings highlight the post-recovery concerns of BCS and RTRs and implicate the role of health psychologists in devising appropriate management plans to improve their quality of life after recovery.