Breast Cancer Survivorship Experiences of Urban Hispanic Women

The purpose of this study was to explore determinates of health that impact survivorship of urban Hispanic breast cancer survivors who are at risk for experiencing poorer outcomes than others. Some challenges have been characterized, but gaps in our knowledge of the impact of some of the social determinates of health remain. Challenges likely exist prior to a diagnosis of cancer and may amplify in intensity during survivorship, potentially shortening survival and quality of life of these women. A narrative, focus group was conducted with a group of urban Hispanic breast cancer survivors. A series of linked vignettes describing survivorship challenges and late effects of breast cancer pathology and treatment were used to stimulate discussion. Three themes impacting survivorship were identified. The themes included communication (health literacy), isolation, and social support and financial cost. Communication issues resulted in delays in treatment denial of services. While these themes in cancer survivors are independent of residence (rural, suburban, or urban) and across ethnic groups, some unique issues were identified in urban Hispanic breast cancer survivors. Members of the healthcare team are in a unique position to enhance survivor’s health literacy, advocate for programmatic efforts to enhance navigation roles in the hospital and communities, decrease delays in initiating care, and decrease the rate of patients lost.