“Sweet Burden”: A Qualitative Study on Familial Impacts on Chinese Breast Cancer Patients during Pregnancy

Background: Breast cancer rarely occurs during pregnancy, with an estimated incidence of approximately 1 in 1000 to 3000 pregnancies. Within a family-centered coping system in Chinese cultural contexts, exploring the influence of the family on breast cancer patients during pregnancy is important to strengthen their cancer coping and psychosocial flexibility. Aim​​: This study aimed to explore the family role and impact on breast cancer patient during pregnancy within the Chinese cultural context. Methods​​: This study employed purposive sampling and snowball to enroll eight breast cancer patients during pregnancy between June 2023 and December 2024. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's six-step thematic analysis method. Results​​: This study identified two major themes: family support system and stress dilemmas. Supportive system included: guardian of daily living, primary protector, soul pillars during tough times, and provider of life meaning. Stress dimensions encompassed: responsibility burden, guilt for family, and emotional concealment. ​​Conclusion: This study first reveals the impact of family with breast cancer during pregnancy in the Chinese cultural context. The result shows the dual effect of both support and pressure. Bolstering familial support systems and alleviating family-induced stress could strengthen breast cancer patient’s coping ability and psychosocial flexibility.