Exploring women’s reactions to a diagnosis of endometrial carcinoma: a pilot study of Australian women

Abstract

Objective: Endometrial carcinoma (cancer of the uterus) is the fifth most common cancer in women world wide and the most common gynaecological cancer. Each woman confronted with such a diagnosis will respond in different ways, as will their family and friends; therefore each will vary in their supportive needs. This study aimed to acquire some insight into the initial impact of a diagnosis of endometrial carcinoma on women and factors relating to support for them.

Design: Semi-structured interviews were used to collect in-depth data on women’s views. Interviews were audio-taped. Demographic data were collected prior to interview by structured questionnaire.

Setting: The setting was a tertiary women’s hospital in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Subjects: The subjects were seven women with newly diagnosed endometrial carcinoma.

Main outcome measures: Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded into themes.

Results: The findings include an acceptance of the diagnosis and adequate friend and family support. Some women experienced initial denial from immediate family members; for others the diagnosis led to a new appreciation of life and values. Most women received adequate education regarding endometrial carcinoma, while others used varied means including the internet to find further information. Health care facilities for rural versus urban women; the means by which women were told of their diagnosis; and appropriate follow up and support, were issues that arose which require further exploration.

Conclusions: The needs of a woman diagnosed with endometrial carcinoma will vary between individuals. Further research in the area of psychosocial care for women newly diagnosed with endometrial carcinoma would be of value. Women need individualised and accessible education. If women are provided with a variety of educational tools, they can individualise the information they need for themselves.