Exploring the Mental Health Challenges of Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer in Vietnam: A Qualitative Study

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among Vietnamese women. This qualitative study describes and discusses the mental health challenges of women with breast cancer in Vietnam. Two-rounds of semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted among thirteen women with breast cancer and four caregivers from northern and southern Vietnam. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling technique. Data was collaboratively analyzed by qualitative content analysis using the Open Code Software version 4.02 and discussed among a team of local and international researchers. Women in the study experienced significant mental health challenges associated with their breast cancer diagnosis. Both psychological and emotional health were adversely affected. Women with breast cancer had profound concerns about how the diagnosis impacted their families. They experienced challenges in spousal relationships as well as facing social stigma and discrimination. Appropriate public health interventions should be implemented to raise society's awareness and help improve the mental health of women with breast cancer.