Experiences and perceptions of men following breast cancer diagnosis: A meta-synthesis

Abstract Background Men with breast cancer (MBC) experience unique physical and emotional challenges. However, a thorough understanding of these experiences including the psychosocial effects and supportive care needs have received less attention. In some settings, MBCs experience stigma within the healthcare system and their care needs are not prioritised. This influences the level of professional support offered, consequently worsening their health and well-being outcomes. This review explored the variabilities in the experiences and treatment outcomes of MBCs across different demographic contexts. Methods All primary study designs including qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies that reported on the experiences, treatment approaches and outcomes of MBC were included in this systematic review. Six databases (Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, Global Health, CINAHL and Web of Science were searched for articles from database inception to 2021. A results-based convergence synthesis was used for data analysis and reported using PRISMA guidelines. Results 38 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Our findings relating to the experiences and treatment outcomes of MBC are broadly themed into three parts. Theme 1 - Navigating through a threat to masculinity: describes how males experienced the illness reflecting on detection, diagnosis, coming to terms with breast cancer, and disclosure. Theme 2- Navigating through treatment: captures the experiences of undergoing breast cancer treatment/ management following their diagnosis. Theme 3 - Coping and support systems: describes how MBCs coped with the disease, treatment process, aftercare/rehabilitative care, and the available support structures. Conclusions Men experience a myriad of issues following a breast cancer diagnosis, especially with their masculinity. Awareness creation efforts of MBC among the general public as well as healthcare practitioners are urgently required. Considerations for training, education and development of specialised guidelines for healthcare practitioners on MBC would provide the necessary knowledge and skills to enhance their practice through the adoption of person-centred and male-specific care strategies. Professional care intervention and support for MBC should not end after the diagnosis phase but should extend to the entire treatment continuum and aftercare. PROSPERO Registration No. CRD42021228778