Navigating Breast Cancer Care and Survivorship

This study examined the multifaceted experiences of Black women as they navigated breast

cancer treatment and survivorship. The study was grounded in the theoretical frameworks of

social cognitive theory (SCT) and Black feminist thought (BFT), which provided a foundation

for comprehending the complexities of this journey. The research aimed to elucidate how Black

women perceived their self-efficacy and its influence on their health behaviors, recognizing the

role of self-efficacy in shaping health outcomes. Additionally, it explored the impact of race,

gender, and socioeconomic class identities on healthcare experiences and how these factors

contributed to variations in the quality of care, communication with healthcare providers, access

to resources, and overall satisfaction with the treatment journey. A mixed-methods approach

combined a quantitative survey and qualitative semi-structured interviews to achieve these

objectives. The survey used standardized instruments to quantify the influence of self-efficacy on

health behaviors. At the same time, the interviews presented Black women's narratives,

capturing the depth and richness of their experiences. The study's significance rests in its ability

to inform culturally inclusive and patient-centric healthcare models that empower Black women

facing breast cancer. This research sought to contribute meaningful insights, bridge gaps in

healthcare practices, and confront the challenges this demographic faces. It aspired to catalyze

positive changes that resonate on individual and societal levels, fostering equitable and

compassionate healthcare for all.