Table 3 Frequency of breast cancer survivors’ answers about their worst experience during breast cancer, positive aspects of the illness and advice for fellow patients
Worst experience (n = 118) | No. of patients | % of patients |
|---|---|---|
Psychological distress | 45 | 38 |
Chemotherapy | 29 | 25 |
Cancer diagnosis | 21 | 18 |
Mastectomy | 9 | 8 |
Social burden | 8 | 7 |
Additional illness | 7 | 6 |
Radiotherapy | 3 | 3 |
Endocrine therapy | 3 | 3 |
Nothing | 1 | 1 |
Other | 14 | 12 |
Positive Aspects (n = 58) | No. of patients | % of patients |
Change in life priorities | 29 | 50 |
Social support | 13 | 22 |
Good course of cancer | 9 | 16 |
Support by physicians/ nurses | 6 | 10 |
Gratitude | 5 | 9 |
Other | 3 | 5 |
Advice (n = 110) | No. of patients | % of patients |
Fighting spirit | 46 | 42 |
Information | 17 | 16 |
Confidence in physicians | 12 | 11 |
Openness | 10 | 9 |
No advice | 10 | 9 |
Business as usual | 8 | 7 |
Cancer screening | 7 | 6 |
Acceptance | 6 | 6 |
Self-reflection | 5 | 5 |
Belief in God | 4 | 4 |
Support group | 2 | 2 |
Discreteness | 2 | 2 |
Other | 9 | 8 |