The psychosocial experiences of women with breast cancer across the lifespan: a systematic review

Objective To summarize the psychosocial experience of women with breast cancer from a lifespan perspective by examining the findings of qualitative studies. Methods A meta‐aggregate review of 24 qualitative studies was undertaken. To be included, studies must include women with a breast cancer diagnosis and focus on younger or older women (as defined by the study), or compare a psychosocial issue across the lifespan. Eight databases were searched systematically. Results Study participants ranged in age from 26 to 91 years. Sixteen studies focused on younger women, six focused on older women, and two included women across the lifespan. A total of 155 findings were extracted from the studies and were aggregated into 11 categories. These were synthesized into four synthesized findings: (a) dealing with cancer, (b) the importance of caring, (c) the aftermath of cancer, and (d) fertility and infertility. Conclusions Further research is required to explore these findings, and to examine the needs of older women in particular. Delineating the similarities and differences in the needs of women across the lifespan will inform the development of psychosocial interventions for all women with breast cancer.