Lived Experience of Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Treatment at Tikur Anbesa Specialize Hospital In 2025

Abstract

Abstract Background: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancer in the world, especially in females. Even though, prevention methods and treatment options are able to greatly lower mortality the effect of diagnosis and treatments continuous to impact many aspects of patient’s lives including physical, emotional, social and spiritual aspects. Even though there are a lot of studies on the clinical aspects of the disease, there still is limited understanding of how women experience the path of therapy. Objectives: The objective of this study is to explore the lived experience of breast cancer patients undergoing treatment at Tikur Anbesa Specialized Hospital (TASH), Addis Abeba, Ethiopia, 2025 Methods: This study used a qualitative phenomenological research design to explore the experience of patients diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing treatment. The study was done in Tikur Anbesa Specialized Hospital from September to December 2025.12 patients who are diagnosed with breast cancer and are receiving treatment were recruited by using maximum variation purposive sampling method. In depth interviews were used as the data collection method and the interview used Semi structured interview guide to collect data on the patients lived experience. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, translated, coded inductively and then concurrently analyzed by utilizing Atlas ti-8 by using thematic analysis. Results: The thematic analysis of the data revealed five prominent themes: Navigating Diagnosis and Disclosure which captures the tumultuous journey from receiving the life-altering news to the strategic and emotional complexities of sharing it with others. Second: Committing to a Treatment Path which entails the resolute, proactive shift from shock to action, as patients embrace biomedical regimens while often seeking hope in complementary therapies. Third: Enduring the Multidimensional Toll of Treatment which encompasses the integrated physical suffering, psychological distress, and social strain inflicted by the therapy process. Fourth: Facing Systemic and Financial Barriers which highlights the exhausting external battle against institutional hurdles and the crushing economic burden of care. Finally, Sustained by Networks of Care and Support illustrates how patients are upheld through the practical and emotional sustenance drawn from family, healthcare providers, and spiritual faith. Conclusion: The study findings highlights the complex and multidimensional experience of women with breast cancer, which mainly are emotional straggles felt due to the unexpected nature of the diagnosis and challenges face due to accessing treatment and also the bodily and psychological burden of the treatment itself. The results show the need for holistic, patient centered care for women with breast cancer. To improve their treatment experience it is essential to create a more supportive hospital setting, ensure the consistent availability of resources and actively prioritize patients' overall wellbeing. Key Words: breast cancer, lived experience, qualitative study, Addis Abeba, Ethiopia