Psychosocial Group Intervention at a Low-Resource Setting Environment for Women Who Are Diagnosed and Treated for Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Africa faces significant challenges in terms of material and personnel resources for oncology interventions. This is particularly evident in South Africa, where resources are divided into high- and low-resource settings. High-resource settings cater to those with financial means to access private oncology facilities. However, many breast cancer patients receive care in South Africa’s low-resource settings, such as public hospital oncology clinics. Unfortunately, these settings have limited service providers and fail to offer comprehensive interventions, resulting in poor outcomes. However, recent research has highlighted the significance of socially supportive relationships in promoting healing and overall individual well-being, and spirituality has been identified as a source of positive outcomes in cancer patients. This systematic review paper explores the feasibility of implementing support group cancer care and interventions that incorporate social support networks available in community settings, and spiritual practices facilitated by traditional healers, and religious/spiritual leaders. These interventions can be provided within low-resource settings to women diagnosed with breast cancer. Inclusive participation of spouses, children, and extended family in the support group cancer care can facilitate healing for the entire system. Focusing on the strengths and resources within communities and incorporating these complementary services, can enhance the well-being and quality of life for Black African women diagnosed with breast cancer, despite low-resource settings. This approach acknowledges the potential of community-based support networks and encourages collaboration between various stakeholders, including community health educators, nurses, lay counselors, and community volunteers, to address the complex needs of these patients.