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Korean women's breast cancer experience
Eun-Ok Im1, Eun Ok Lee, Young Sook Park
1School of Nursing, University of Texas, Austin, USA.
Western Journal of Nursing Research
|November 14, 2002
Summary
Korean women experience breast cancer within a patriarchal culture, leading to feelings of self-blame and marginalization. Cultural context significantly impacts their health and illness experiences.
Area of Science:
- Sociology of Health and Illness
- Medical Anthropology
- Oncology Nursing
Background:
- Breast cancer diagnosis presents unique challenges for women globally.
- Cultural factors can significantly influence how women perceive and cope with cancer.
- Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial for effective patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the cultural meanings of breast cancer among Korean women in South Korea.
- To identify specific cultural themes impacting the breast cancer experience.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive longitudinal qualitative study.
- Methodological triangulation was employed.
- In-depth interviews with 10 newly diagnosed Korean women experiencing fatigue were conducted and analyzed thematically.
Main Results:
- Key themes included self-blame ('I did wrong'), reluctance to consult male physicians ('I cannot ask male physicians'), privacy concerns regarding the surgical site ('I don't want to show the operation site to my husband'), and continued domestic responsibilities ('I do household tasks by myself').
- The overarching theme identified was the marginalization of women within their patriarchal cultural context.
Conclusions:
- Cultural context, particularly patriarchal structures, profoundly shapes Korean women's experiences with breast cancer.
- Findings highlight the importance of considering cultural factors in women's health and illness narratives.
- Healthcare providers should be sensitive to these cultural dimensions for improved patient support and outcomes.