The lived experience of spirituality of women with breast cancer: a qualitative content analysis study

Breast cancer is a serious health problem among women that affects their performance and mental health. In order to deal with this challenge, these people should consider a practical solution such as recognizing and promoting spirituality in themselves. Because spirituality is an important resource that can cause positive effects on their physical and mental condition.

In this study, a qualitative design was used using content analysis and in-depth individual semi-structured interviews until reaching data saturation. 13 breast cancer patients were selected from the chemotherapy center of Peymaniye Jahrom Hospital by targeted sampling method. The interviews were recorded with the permission of the interviewees, and analysis was conducted immediately after the interview. The research team and two research experts checked the quality of the codes to ensure that the data were saturated.

The average age of the patients was 44.30 years. Also, 12 of the studied patients were married and 1 was single. The average duration of their illness was 2.68 years. The initial analysis led to the production of 240 semantic units, and finally 74 primary codes, 22 sub-categories, 10 sub-categories and 3 main categories (spiritual needs, factors of fear and suffering and the results of spirituality in patients) were extracted.

The results of the present study showed that living with breast cancer can change the path of life, beliefs and spiritual attitudes of patients. In addition, it will cause their spiritual growth and excellence.