Samuel Ojima Adejoh1 & Adetayo Olorunlana2
American Association for Cancer Education 2016
Abstract Breast cancer is ranked second as the cause of cancer
death among women. Of importance to the management of
breast cancer is the interaction processes between the patients
and their professional caregivers or healthcare providers.
Against this background, this study explores the experiences
of Nigerian women as breast cancer patients and their interaction
with their caregivers in the management of their condition.
The study was cross-sectional in design. Twenty diagnosed
breast cancer patients participated in the study and were
purposively selected using convenience and snow balling
sampling technique. Patients affirmed that they were initially
afraid when diagnosed but overcame their fear based on caregivers’
supports. Physical interactions and the use of mobile
phones were common means of communication while the fear
of death and financial burden of the disease were of major
concerns to the patients. The majority of the patients were
satisfied with the quality of care and treatment received in
the private hospitals as they were encouraged and supported.
It was discovered that professional caregivers are germane to
patients’ survival from shock and adequate information on
how to manage their condition and live a normal life.
Keywords Breast cancer . Interaction . Communication .
Feedback . Nigeria