The challenge of being diagnosed and treated for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

KENNEDY, Fiona, HARCOURT, Diana and RUMSEY, Nichola (2008). The challenge of being diagnosed and treated for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). European Journal of Oncology Nursing, 12 (2), 103-111.

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Link to published version:: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejon.2007.09.007

Abstract

Following the introduction of the National Health Service Breast Screening Programme(NHSBSP) in the UK increasing numbers of women are diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). In DCIS, the cancer cells are confined to the ducts of the breast but considerable uncertainty surrounds the condition. Patients are often reassured that it is non-invasive and not life-threatening but they are recommended similar treatments to patients with invasive breast cancer. Little research has investigated the psychosocial impact of DCIS; therefore the aim of this qualitative study was to explore women’s experiences of the condition. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 16 women previously diagnosed and treated for DCIS. Thematic analysis identified six key themes: (1) invisibility of DCIS, (2) uncertainty, (3) perceptions of DCIS,(4) acceptance of treatment, (5) social support and (6) moving on. The results highlight the substantial challenges faced by women diagnosed with DCIS. These findings have clear significance for healthcare professionals, especially specialist nurses, who work closely with DCIS patients.

Item Type: Article
Research Institute, Centre or Group - Does NOT include content added after October 2018: Centre for Health and Social Care Research
Identification Number: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejon.2007.09.007
Page Range: 103-111
Depositing User: Fiona Kennedy
Date Deposited: 16 Mar 2011 16:44
Last Modified: 19 Mar 2021 00:30
URI: https://shura.shu.ac.uk/id/eprint/3246

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