| Summary: | Abstract
Aim
To compare and contrast the experience of breast cancer in women
of different biopsychosocial stages of their life
Background
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the UK and
worldwide. The experience of breast cancer is dynamic and complex
and is comprised of many challenges and opportunities for growth.
To achieve high quality, holistic care, the needs and concerns of
breast cancer patients need to be understood by healthcare
professionals.
Method
A critical review method was chosen and a range of databases were
used to provide a variance of sources and literature types
Findings
Issues that affect all ages of women with breast cancer include
aging-related problems, psychological matters, support, family,
roles and body image, sexuality and femininity. Young women also
have fertility related issues and older women have specific
comorbidity issues. These all affect the self, situation, support and
strategies that are needed to adjust to life transitions, such as
breast cancer. Women also use an internalised clock to assess
whether their lives are on time, and breast cancer affects life plans,
which causes psychological distress.
Conclusion
To achieve holistic care, healthcare professionals need to carry out
thorough assessment of women’s needs and concerns during breast
cancer. The experience varies with age, is complex and diverse and
goes beyond the breast itself. This review highlights the importance
of holistic care and what illness means to patients on an individual
level.
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