Män som drabbats av bröstcancer

: En litteraturstudie som belyser männens upplevelser

Abstract

Background: In Sweden approximately 40 men each year are diagnosed with breast cancer. It is a disease that often is associated with women. Only a few clinical studies are based on men with the result that they are offered treatment following the same guidelines as women. The aim: The aim was to elucidate the incidence of breast cancer in men and their experiences of having the disease. Methods: We conducted a general literature study based on scientific articles. Results: The results showed that the men were shocked at having been diagnosed with breast cancer. They perceived it as a gender-related illness and did not want to disclose their diagnosis to their surroundings. Generally, the men were disappointed with the information made available to them. Participants also had an altered body image due to the mastectomy. They felt that their masculinity and sexuality was questioned. Discussion: Based on the findings in the result there was a discussion on the feminine focus, an altered body image and the lack of knowledge. Conclusion: This study shows that further research is needed to raise awareness of breast cancer in men. The nurse should have an understanding and knowledge of how men experience the disease.