Breast cancer in African American women: A qualitative study

A phenomenological approach was used to explore the healthcare experiences of 19 African-American women with breast cancer. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the biological, social, cultural, economic, education, religion/beliefs, and communication experiences to improve healthcare outcomes, reduce mortality, and improve communication among African American women with breast cancer. The first finding of the study suggested healthcare administrators should analyze and revise breast cancer programs to better serve African American communities. The second finding of the study suggested a need for healthcare administrators to redesign and create outreach programs to increase awareness of annual mammogram screenings and monthly breast examinations. The third and last finding of the study warranted the need for healthcare administrators to encourage healthcare providers to be better informed of breast cancer signs and symptoms in African American women, and for information pertaining to breast cancer to be relayed in a simplistic manner.