Breast Cancer Survivorship

Abstract

Studies have reported that race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, access to care, early diagnosis, quality of care, and spirituality are important prognostic factors for a breast cancer diagnosis. This exploratory study seeks to identify the perceived needs of Black middle-income breast cancer survivors. The Delphi Technique, a qualitative research approach (for deriving cultural consensus), was used to assess needs of 62 Black middle-income socioeconomic position survivors. Survivors' expressed needs were to have (1) affordable, accessible, acceptable, and appropriate medical and support services; (2) a caring and loving family; (3) contacts for information regarding breast cancer symptoms or related health problems; (4) an intimate relationship with God; and (5) adequate resources for self and family care.This pilot study suggests Black breast cancer survivors, regardless of a middle-income socioeconomic position (SEP), experience similar socioecological stressors as low-income SEP survivors.

Key Words:

• Breast cancer survivors
• Delphi technique
• expressed needs
• Black women