Lived Experiences of Cervical Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy at Cancer Diseases Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia

Author:

Elisha Benkeni Kapya,Marjorie Kabinga Makukula,Mwaba Chileshe Siwale,Victoria Kalusopa Mwiinga,Elijah Mpundu

Abstract

Background: Cervical Cancer poses a significant global health challenge, especially in lowresource settings. It is a significant health problem worldwide, with over half a million new cases diagnosed each year, accounting for approximately 6.6% of all gynecological Cancer cases and over 300,000 deaths each year. In Zambia, it is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity among women. The number of cases has increased by approximately 40%. This study explored the lived experiences of Cervical Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at the Cancer Diseases Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia, focusing on their subjective experiences. By examining their journeys through chemotherapy, the study aimed to highlight the subtle complexities in which treatment impacts patients’ lives and well-being. Methods and procedures: Employing a qualitative descriptive phenomenological study design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 participants with diverse demographics. The sample size was determined by data saturation and saturation was reached at 10. Ethical protocols were ensured, and Study approval was obtained from UNZABREC and the National Health Research Authority. Thematic analysis was conducted on audio-recorded interviews with cervical cancer patients, ensuring confidentiality and accuracy while discerning significant patterns and themes in their narratives. Results/findings: Emotional experiences ranged from anxiety to gratitude. Psychological challenges encompassed coping mechanisms, stress management, emotional adjustments, and treatment-related fears. Socially, community support, workplace accommodations, and healthcare provider roles were key. Physical experiences revealed side effects managed through coping strategies. Financial challenges significantly impacted individuals and families. Conclusions and recommendations: The study revealed that cervical cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy face complex challenges spanning emotional, psychological, social, physical, and financial domains, underscoring the imperative for comprehensive patient-centered care. Recommendations suggest focusing on financial aid for cancer patients and tackling treatment expenses and insurance issues. The Cancer Diseases Hospital should establish multidisciplinary teams for holistic care, and enhance patient education efforts. Nurses should adopt strategies integrating cultural competence and patient-centered care to address diverse challenges during chemotherapy. These aim to enhance the well-being and care quality of Cervical Cancer patients.

Publisher

Heighten Science Publications Corporation

Reference51 articles.

1. 1. World Health Organization. Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. 2022. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today [Accessed 7 December 2023].

2. 2. World Health Organization. Cervical cancer. World Health Organization. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer.

3. 3. Chan KY, Kwok S, Chan CY, Yau TK, Lee AW. Psychosocial support for patients undergoing chemotherapy: a qualitative study. Eur J Oncol Nurs. 2017;31:112-118. doi:10.1016/j.ejon.2017.10.008.

4. 4. Ma X, Zhang J, Zhong W, Shu C, Wang F, Wen J, Zhao Y. Chemotherapy and quality of life in cancer patients: a qualitative study. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 2021;147:1243-1252. doi:10.1007/s00432-021-03518-2.

5. 5. Marmarà D, Marmarà V, Hubbard G. Exploring the lived experiences of patients undergoing chemotherapy for cervical cancer: a qualitative study. Eur J Oncol Nurs. 2021;50:101885. doi:10.1016/j.ejon.2021.101885.

同舟云学术

1.学者识别学者识别

2.学术分析学术分析

3.人才评估人才评估

"同舟云学术"是以全球学者为主线,采集、加工和组织学术论文而形成的新型学术文献查询和分析系统,可以对全球学者进行文献检索和人才价值评估。用户可以通过关注某些学科领域的顶尖人物而持续追踪该领域的学科进展和研究前沿。经过近期的数据扩容,当前同舟云学术共收录了国内外主流学术期刊6万余种,收集的期刊论文及会议论文总量共计约1.5亿篇,并以每天添加12000余篇中外论文的速度递增。我们也可以为用户提供个性化、定制化的学者数据。欢迎来电咨询!咨询电话:010-8811{复制后删除}0370

www.globalauthorid.com

TOP

Copyright © 2019-2024 北京同舟云网络信息技术有限公司
京公网安备11010802033243号  京ICP备18003416号-3