2018 Volume 32 Article ID: 32_okawa_20180221
Abstract
This study aimed to clarify the experiences leading up to breast cancer diagnosis in women who were diagnosed with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer （HBOC） and decided to undergo risk-reducing surgery. Interview surveys were conducted with 5 women with HBOC who elected to undergo risk-reducing surgery, and the data of 4 of those women were subjected to qualitative and descriptive analysis. Women with HBOC who elected to undergo risk-reducing surgery reported that they had, ＂experienced the influence of their breast or ovarian cancer on family members or friends＂, “been prepared to avoid panic even when suffering from cancer＂,“ prioritized lowering the risk of cancer over problems related to risk-reducting surgery＂, and so on. Women diagnosed with HBOC who elected to undergo risk-reducing surgery began to confront cancer even before being diagnosed with breast cancer. And the women had conflict undergoing risk-reducing surgery. So to understand women, including the past experiences of family or friends living with cancer, and to provide appropriate information are essential in nursing for women with HBOC who elected to undergo risk-reducing surgery.
