Breast Reconstruction Perceptions and Access in First Nations Women Are Influenced by Colonization

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Sociology
• Indigenous Health

Background:

• Breast cancer significantly impacts women's lives.
• Breast reconstruction (BR) is an option following mastectomy.
• Understanding diverse patient perspectives is crucial for equitable care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore First Nations (FN) women's perceptions of breast reconstruction (BR) after breast cancer surgery.
• To identify factors influencing BR decision-making and uptake among FN women.
• To understand the impact of cultural and systemic factors on BR experiences.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing purposive and snowball sampling.
• Semistructured interviews and a First Nations sharing circle.
• Thematic content analysis of transcribed data.

Main Results:

• Nine FN women participated; 33% pursued BR, 67% did not.
• Key themes identified: identity, information gaps, financial/transportation barriers, and consequences of colonization.
• Reasons for pursuing BR (self-image, femininity, normalcy) align with non-FN women, but access to culturally sensitive information and overcoming systemic barriers are critical.

Conclusions:

• First Nations women are receptive to BR when offered.
• Colonization's consequences present unique and significant obstacles to BR uptake.
• Culturally sensitive, oral communication and addressing systemic barriers are essential for supporting FN women's BR decisions.