A qualitative study of the physical consequences experienced by women with cervical cancer in Accra, Ghana

Abstract

Background/aims Cervical cancer is a highly prevalent type of cancer that causes severe physical consequences, including pain and sleep disturbance. However, in Ghana, little is known about the experiences of women with cervical cancer. This study explored the physical experiences of women with cervical cancer in Accra, Ghana to help healthcare professionals understand the experiences of their patients and improve the care given. Methods This study employed an exploratory descriptive qualitative approach, using purposive sampling technique to select study participants. In-depth interviews lasting between 45 and 90 minutes were conducted face-to-face with 15 women with cervical cancer receiving treatment at a teaching hospital in Ghana to gather information on their physical experiences resulting from the cancer. The interviews were recorded with the participants' consent. Data were transcribed verbatim and subjected to content analysis concurrently with data collection. Results Content analysis revealed the following sub-themes within disease-related physical consequences of cervical cancer: pain, impaired sleep patterns, weight loss and gynaecological problems. Conclusions The findings of this study suggest that women with cervical cancer experience physical consequences that negatively impact their wellbeing. Healthcare providers should employ a multidisciplinary approach in the management of women with cervical cancer.