The Experience of Living With Metastatic Breast Cancer—A Review of the Literature

Willis, Karen; Lewis, Sophie; Ng, Fiona; Wilson, Leigh

Abstract

Women's experiences with metastatic breast cancer have received little research attention. We reviewed published articles (1984–2013) reporting research examining women's experiences of metastatic breast cancer (n = 33). Findings from quantitative studies were categorized into three broad areas: adverse consequences, satisfaction with health care providers, and strategies for living. Themes identified from qualitative findings include living as a social outsider; importance of hope; health and quality of life; positive experiences; experiences at end of life; and strategies for living. More research is needed to explore experiences of subgroups to appropriately respond to women's diverse care needs.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 14, 2014
• Online Publication Date: Apr 22, 2014
• Publication Date: May 4, 2015
• Deposit Date: May 18, 2020
• Journal: Health Care for Women International
• Print ISSN: 0739-9332
• Electronic ISSN: 1096-4665
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 36
• Issue: 5
• Pages: 514-542
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/07399332.2014.896364
• Keywords: General Health Professions
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/4464958
• Publisher URL: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07399332.2014.896364
• Additional Information: Peer Review Statement: The publishing and review policy for this title is described in its Aims & Scope.; Aim & Scope: http://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?show=aimsScope&journalCode=uhcw20