“I Beat Cancer to Feel Sick:” Qualitative Experiences of Sleep Disturbance in Black Breast Cancer Survivors and Recommendations for Culturally Targeted Sleep Interventions

Abstract

Abstract Background Sleep disturbance is common and distressing among cancer survivors. Black breast cancer survivors (BBCS) suffer disproportionately from sleep disturbance, yet there is limited research on how to address this issue. Purpose This study aimed to understand the multifaceted experiences of sleep disturbance among BBCS and how to culturally target a mobile health (mHealth) intervention to improve sleep outcomes in BBCS. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted in a purposive sample of 10 BBCS. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded for key barriers to sleep and potential solutions to incorporate into behavioral interventions using NVivo 12. Inductive applied thematic analysis techniques were employed to identify emergent themes. Results Ten BBCS (mean age = 54, SD = 10) described their experiences of sleep disturbance with themes including: (1) barriers to quality sleep (e.g., cancer worry, personal responsibilities), (2) psychosocial impacts of sleep disturbance (e.g., fatigue, distress), and (3) commonly used strategies to improve sleep. The second section discusses suggestions for developing mHealth interventions to improve sleep for BBCS including: (1) feedback on an existing mHealth intervention and (2) intervention topics suggested by BBCS. Conclusions Our findings highlight the challenges associated with sleep disturbance in BBCS. Participants report culturally targeted mHealth interventions are needed for BBCS who experience chronic sleep disturbance that affects their overall quality of life. These interventions should address coping with sleep-related issues relevant to many breast cancer survivors and BBCS (e.g., sexual intimacy, fear of cancer recurrence) and should incorporate intervention strategies acceptable to BBCS (e.g., prayer, meditation).