Experiences of self-management support among breast cancer survivors

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore self-management support experiences among breast cancer survivors. Methods: Individual in-depth interviews were performed for survivors who had treated breast cancer after completion of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Data were collected from April 2014 to July 2014 and analyzed using phenomenological method by Colaizzi. Results: Five essential themes were found as follows: 1) Need for continuous help and support to maintain self-management, 2) Need for professional resources to carry out regular exercise, 3) Overcoming psychological difficulties through others rather than health care professionals, 4) Disappointment with time with and circumstances of health care consultation, 5) Dependence on means of media for health related information. Conclusion: The results might contribute to an understanding of self-management support experienced by breast cancer survivors in Korea. It is suggested that evidence-based program for self-management support should be developed and applied to nursing intervention for breast cancer survivors.