Experience of Young Women in face of Breast Neoplasia

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer requires treatments that change a woman’s self-image and self-esteem. Body changes have an impact on the physical, emotional and social spheres, especially in young women. Objective: To understand the experience of young women (18 to 40 years old) in treatment of breast cancer. Method: Qualitative study, with theoretical and methodological references: symbolic interactionism and grounded theory. Thirteen women participated in the research. Data were collected in two High Complexity Assistance Centers in Oncology, between October/2017 and August/2019, with the guiding question: “Tell me about your experience of living with breast cancer”. Results: The methodology led to the generation of the category “Breast cancer and its repercussions for young women” and the subcategory “Emotional and physical aspects modifying social relationships”. Conclusion: The loss of vanity in this young group was the most striking point and was associated with alopecia, mastectomy and autonomy deficit in with impairment of work activities.