Perspectives of husbands of women with breast cancer: information needs

Abstract

The majority of women, when diagnosed with breast cancer, turn to their partners for support. However, the diagnosis and treatment of this disease will have an impact on the partner as well and could influence his ability to be supportive. This study was undertaken to explore the perceived informational needs of male partners of women diagnosed with breast cancer. The in-depth interviews provide a rich description about the nature of men's informational needs in a context of upheaval and unexpected events. The 15 husbands in this study described information as important in their capacity to manage the situation. Three overarching themes were identified: the men had questions and concerns throughout the time period since the diagnosis, lack of information created difficulties for them, and health care professionals could be helpful. These men struggled to find relevant information and to sort out what was applicable to their own situation. They found little information specifically directed to partners. Assessment by cancer nurses ought to include the male partner's needs for information and his capacity to process information throughout the cancer experience.