Cultural factors associated with the management of breast lumps amongst Xhosa women

Abstract

A qualitative research design and an ethno-nursing research method were used to identify cultural factors influencing Xhosa women’s health seeking behaviours associated with breast lumps. Focus group interviews, involving Xhosa women with advanced breast cancer and registered nurses caring for these women, were conducted to obtain data. The research results revealed that perceptions on the significance of the female breast, the meaning of a breast lump and the cause of illness influenced their health seeking behaviours. Other factors included a lack of knowledge about breast lumps, experiences that they had upon discovery of the breast lumps and misconceptions about the consequences of medical treatment. The informants sought treatment from traditional healers prior to seeking medical care from the hospital and/or clinics. By the time they sought medical treatment, the breast lumps had often progressed to advanced ulcerated breast cancer, with poor prognoses and poor treatment outcomes. The data revealed that the informants gained insights due to their experiences. It is therefore suggested that they be involved in health education on the prevention of breast cancer.