A diagnosis of a chronic illness, such as cancer, can lead to a crisis in one's life. Although cancer patients face many biopsychosocial challenges, the literature has pointed to resilience as a key factor in coming to terms with the diagnosis and treatment. Though resilience has been discussed in various disciplines, and also from a socio-cultural perspective, there is still no universal consensus about its defining features. Furthermore, most studies have employed a quantitative approach in the understanding of what causes resilience. This qualitative study discusses the results of interviews among 18 Malaysian women with breast cancer, exploring what made these woman resilient. A thematic analysis uncovered seven themes related to the participants pathways towards resilience: drastic changes of body-image; self-reflection; spiritual resources; restoration of confidence; informal and formal support; and life appreciation. This study is vital to understanding the impact that resilienc.....

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It has been reported that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting women in Malaysia. A diagnosis of breast cancer will usually bring upon a set of issues and challenges affecting the well-being of these women. The aim of this article is to provide a literature review regarding the biopsychosocial issues, challenges, social support and adaptation process experienced by women with breast cancer, with an application to the Malaysian setting focusing on the Malaysian sociocultural backgrounds. The discussion of this article focuses on the importance of social support in adaptation process such as from immediate family members, support group and the medical team following the challenges faced by the patients such as ones stemming from their cultural background, their biological issues and their refusal to seek treatments. The overall review of the literature is aligned with the social work values in addressing human wellbeing, including the recognition of the psychosocial .....

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In this article, two social work academics reflect on their experiences conducting qualitative research with cancer patients and their caregivers. Reflections and insights from their experiences are provided for social work students, researchers, and social workers who want to conduct their research and/or practice in oncology. © The Author(s) 2023...

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