Positive changes after breast cancer: A qualitative study
Volume 5, Issue 4, Summer 2015, Pages 1-8
. Masoud Bahrami, . Fariba Taleghani, . Marzeyeh Loripoor, . Alireza Yousefy
Abstract Introduction: Traumatic events such as breast cancer along with negative effects on patients
also have positive effects. These cases have been studied less in Iran. Therefore, this study
was conducted with the aim of explanation of positive changes after breast cancer by using a
qualitative approach. Materials and Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in 2012 in
one of the specialized centers for cancer affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences.
In this study, it was interviewed with 19 women with breast cancer about positive changes
after cancer by using individual, open and deep methods. The interviews were analyzed
with conventional content analysis method. Results: The titles of the three major categories
were included as behavioral changes to maintain and promote health (acquisition of health
information and adopting promoting health behaviors), spiritual development (attention to the
God and sense of meaning in life, revising the values and priorities, strengthening moral and
behavioral traits) and personal growth and flourish (feeling empowerment, confidence and
efforts to achieve the goals and desires). These three categories have led to emerge themes
in this study as the “Awakening after cancer.” Conclusions: The results of this study indicated
positive changes after breast cancer. Considering such changes while providing care and
consulting to patients with breast cancer in addition to facilitate and accelerate positive changes
will be prompted to provide care and proper and influential consulting to promote patient health.