Psycho-spiritual wellbeing and coping strategies of women with breast cancer post-radiation therapy in Kumasi, Ghana.

Breast cancer (BCa) is one of the leading causes of mortality among women in most countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Female survivors of BCa have been the primary subjects of most studies with a focus on therapies like chemotherapy and mastectomy but less on radiation therapy especially experiences post-radiation therapy. We explored the psycho-spiritual well-being and coping strategies of women with BCa post-radiation therapy in Kumasi, Ghana. In this qualitative enquiry, we purposively recruited seventeen (17) women with BCa post-radiation therapy. The participants were interviewed, and the interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was conducted with the aid of NVivo 10.0. The main themes that emerged from the data indicated psychological characteristics of relief, emotional changes related to anxiety, agitation and distress due to frequent hospital visits as well as improved prayer life or religiosity and faith for healing. Also, four sub-themes of coping were identified: Religious coping strategy, diversionary therapy, breast pad utilization and social engagement. Radiation therapy in women with BCa is highly stressful particularly the requirement of frequent hospital visits. We recommend the inclusion of psychological management for women with BCa during and post-radiation therapy to improve their overall psycho-spiritual well-being.