Exploring the social anxiety of breast cancer survivors in a sociocultural context: a qualitative study

Backgroud :The global incidence of breast cancer is rising annually, yet the survival rate is also exhibiting an upward trend year by year. An increasing number of breast cancer survivors will transition into the phase of chronic disease management, with reintegration into society constituting a crucial component of their overall recovery. Objective: To explore the social experiences of breast cancer survivors within a sociocultural context, with the aim of providing guidance for the development of social rehabilitation nursing support programs for this population. Methods: A descriptive study design was employed to select 14 breast cancer survivors who were treated at a tertiary A hospital in Jiangsu Province between June and December 2024. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted based on an objective sampling method, and the data were analyzed and refined using content analysis. Results: The social experiences of breast cancer survivors were categorized into five themes: distress associated with physical symptoms, negative psychological experiences, navigating social and cultural challenges, multidimensional support needs, and social coping strategies. Conclusion: Breast cancer survivors experience social anxiety as a result of impaired physical health, poor psychological well-being, the influence of social and cultural environments, and insufficient social support. Medical professionals should enhance symptom management and psychological counseling for this population, improve family and social support, foster positive social coping strategies, and assist survivors in reintegrating into society.