Lived Experiences Of Patients With Cervical Cancer

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore the lived experiences of cervical cancer patients. The study engaged a sample of fifteen cervical cancer patients selected through purposive sampling. The interpretative paradigm was used to guide the study since the emphasis of the research was on lived experiences of cervical cancer patients. Semi-structured interviews facilitated data collection while the Interpretative Phenomenological Approach was adopted for data analysis. The study generally confirmed the Biopsychosocial-spiritual model (BPS—spiritual) of health and disease. Most women with cervical cancer, in this current study, were confronted with physical, psychological, social, spiritual and health system related problems which exacerbated their general being. The biopsychocial approach to health and illness is suitable in the management of symptoms and treatment of cervical cancer patients since the approach takes into account all the dimensions of human experience. Health professionals should step up educational programmes on cervical cancer and adopt a national health policy to immunize women and girls against human papillomavirus (HPV).