الملخص الإنجليزي
Breast cancer is the most frequently
diagnosed cancer worldwide (23%) and the
leading cause of cancer-related deaths among
women (14%).1
In Oman, the incidence of breast cancer
increased from 53 cases in 1996 to 104 cases in 2008,
with 100–150 new cases reported annually.2
Moreover,
in comparison to Western women, women in Oman
are often diagnosed in the later stages of cancer,
at an earlier age and have lower survival rates.2,3 A
diagnosis of breast cancer can be devastating and can
trigger distressing psychological reactions in patients,
including feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, fear, lone liness, negative self-image and self-blaming as well as
sexual problems.4–6 Women with breast cancer have
also reported suffering from social discrimination and
stigma; hence, they may be less able to cope with the
subsequent challenges and adjustments which come
with their diagnosis.
