Exploring Challenges Related to Breast Cancer Chemotherapy Among Females in Pakistan: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: With the increased rate of breast cancer affecting one in every nine women in Pakistan, breast cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy, is often very challenging for patients. Aims: This study aims to explore chemotherapy related-challenges among females in Pakistan. Methods: Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 40 post-chemotherapy females at the tertiary care setting in Islamabad, Pakistan, from February 2024 to April 2024, using a purposive sampling technique. Each 15–20 min interview was audio recorded in the national language (Urdu), transcribed, and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Results: The study included women with an average age of 47 years; most were married (n = 33), had primary education (n = 13), were unemployed (n = 35), and had a low family income (n = 36). Overall, participants reported hair loss (n = 35), darkened nails (n = 26), mouth sores (n = 24), weakness (n = 21), vomiting (n = 20), diarrhea (n = 15), constipation (n = 13), and various other effects. Participants experienced significant physical challenges, psychological impact, economic strain, and informational challenges. However, coping strategies such as alternative treatments, staying motivated, managing side effects, and support from friends and family helped patients effectively deal with their chemotherapy. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the need for financial support programs and government interventions to enhance the affordability of chemotherapy treatment. Furthermore, this study implies that healthcare professionals improve patient outcomes by counseling them about chemotherapy and its possible side effects before the treatment begins.