Title: Lived experiences of breast cancer patients in Baguio City
Abstract:
Aim: The study aims to explore the experiences of breast cancer patients to better understand their needs and improve support and treatment.
Background: Breast cancer remains a major global and local health concern, with increasing cases in the Philippines. In Baguio City, the condition significantly impacts women's health, yet their personal experiences are underrepresented in research. While standard treatments like chemotherapy are common, their profound emotional and physical effects are often overlooked in conventional care. Although local support networks exist, limited qualitative research captures the unique lived experiences of women facing breast cancer in this region. This study intends to bridge that gap by delving into the personal journeys of breast cancer patients in Baguio City to inform and enhance patient-centered care and support systems.
Methods: A descriptive phenomenological design was used to explore the lived experiences of breast cancer patients. The study was conducted in Baguio City through Minda's Buddies Cancer Support Group. Using purposive sampling, ten female participants aged 18 and above-diagnosed within the past five years and undergoing or having completed treatment-were selected. Data were gathered through
face-to-face, semi-structured interviews conducted in the participants' preferred language. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using Creswell's six-step thematic analysis process. Rigor was ensured through Lincoln and Guba's criteria for trustworthiness, including credibility, transferability, dependability, confirmability, and authenticity. Ethical principles were strictly followed, including informed consent, confidentiality, and distress protocols.
Findings: The findings of the study revealed five major themes that capture the lived experiences of breast cancer patients in Baguio City. First, under "The News", patients described intense fear and emotional turmoil upon diagnosis, often associating cancer with death before gradually reaching acceptance. Second, "Gearing Up for Battle" reflected their efforts to prepare physically through proper nutrition and exercise, mentally by staying strong for loved ones, and spiritually through prayer and faith. Third, "Uphill Battle" captured their internal conflict, painful side effects of treatment,
emotional distress, financial struggles, and limited access to healthcare. Fourth, "Standing Your Ground" emphasized the importance of support systems - family, friends, healthcare workers, support groups, and faith-in helping them cope. Finally, "Victory at Hand" highlighted how surviving cancer led to a shift in perspective, giving their lives renewed meaning and purpose.
Conclusion: This study concludes that breast cancer patients in Baguio City undergo a deeply personal journey marked by fear, internal struggle, and eventual acceptance. Their coping involved not only physical readiness but also mental and spiritual strength, strongly supported by families, healthcare providers, and robust social and faith-based networks. The initial emotional distress ultimately evolved into resilience, a renewed sense of purpose, and greater self-awareness. These findings underscore the critical need for holistic nursing care that extends beyond physical treatment to address
emotional, spiritual, and psychosocial support. Moving forward, future research should explore the lived experiences of male breast cancer patients to understand gender-specific needs and develop inclusive care approaches. Furthermore, conducting similar studies across other provinces in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) is advised to reflect regional variations in patient experiences.
Keywords: Breast Cancer, Lived Experience, Minda's Buddies Cancer Support Group.
