The knowledge and practice of patients suffering from cancer of the breast about their disease at Princess Marina Hospital (PMH) Gaborone, Botswana

Abstract

Introduction Inspired by the late presentation for care and consequently the diagnosis of breast cancer done at an advanced stage of the disease in majority of cases, this study aimed to explore the knowledge and practices related to breast cancer from patients presenting at Princess Marina Hospital (PMH) for care. Methodology The descriptive qualitative method using interviews (free attitude) was chosen to understand the trend of late presentation among participants, with following opening questions: 1. Can you please tell me all you know about the cancer of the breast? 2. How have you been treating your breast condition (growth/wound/pain) before you decided to come to PMH? Sampling was purposeful with a sample of twelve. Out of eleven interviews done with breast cancer patients fulfilling the criteria of inclusion, ten were used in the final analysis. Interviews were recorded (audiotape), transcribed verbatim and translated. Emerging themes were identified and coded into different categories Results This study noted a poor knowledge and understanding of patients about cancer of the breast. The knowledge and practice of the common well established screening methods like self breast examination (SBE) was equally poor. In majority, participants delayed going to the hospital as a result of the preceding( poor knowledge and understanding about Ca breast ), as well as the influence of lays beliefs and advices received from the surrounding. In some cases however advices from the surrounding resulted in timely medical consultation. Unexpectedly, Poor clinical practice of health worker in some cases and decision maker‟s inadequate involvement on issue of cancer awareness were other important themes which emerged during analysis of the results. Conclusions Cancer awareness together with consistent use of early detection measures by adhering to screening methods should be taken seriously and done throughout the country for the benefit of all potential victims, to address the poor knowledge, misconceptions and inappropriate health seeking behavior encountered in case of breast cancer.