Perceived experiences of patients with breast cancer: a qualitative study of the influence of spirituality and health beliefs among preoperative breast cancer patients in Ghana

Background: Cancer is a major threat to public health globally and in Ghana. Breast cancer is a serious health problem among women which affects the daily functioning of the individual and their psychological health. Aim: The study examined the influence of spirituality and health beliefs on anxiety and depression among preoperative breast cancer patients in Ghana. Methodology: This is a qualitative study involving 54 preoperative breast cancer patients selected from 3 referral hospitals in Accra namely: 37 Military hospital, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, and the Sweden Ghana Medical Centre all in Ghana. The study collected data via one-on-one in-depth interviews (IDI) and Focus group discussion (FGD). Result: Qualitative thematic analysis techniques were employed to analyse data and the results revealed spirituality and health beliefs influenced patients’ perception and health-seeking, while spirituality in particular helped patients cope with the disease. The results also showed that participants’ levels of anxiety increased due mainly to surgery which is the most common mode of breast cancer treatment. Discussion: This study generates knowledge about the relations between spirituality, health beliefs and psychological wellbeing among breast cancer patients in Ghana. The study implies that spirituality and health beliefs of the cancer experience have implications for psychological wellbeing.