The Experiences of Women Living With Cervical Cancer in Africa: A Metasynthesis of Qualitative Studies

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide. However, developing countries bear 85% of the burden, with Africa sharing the highest incidence with Melanesia.

Objectives: The aims of this study were to explore the experiences of women living with cervical cancer in Africa and to inform others of the extent of the work done in this field of study by synthesizing the findings of qualitative research.

Methods: The work of Sandelowski and Barroso guided the study, and 6 databases were searched to identify relevant studies using the key words Africa, cervical cancer, and experiences.

Results: A total of 13 studies (n = 13) met the inclusion criteria, and their findings were synthesized. The studies originated primarily from South Africa and focused on the period from diagnosis to 1 year after completing curative treatment. One overarching core theme living a life of suffering, 2 main themes, architects of suffering and mediators of suffering, and 9 subthemes were identified.

Conclusion: Women living with cervical cancer in Africa live a life of suffering, which starts when they experience the first symptom of cervical cancer and continues well after completing treatment. The facilitators of suffering outweighed the mediators and could not be guaranteed, as it did not relieve the suffering of all.

Implications for practice: Nurses practicing in Africa should be acutely aware of cervical cancer and do their utmost within their limited resources to prevent and detect the disease in its earliest stage. Religious and support interventions could be used to lessen the suffering of these women.