Navigating survivorship in low-resource settings: Lived experiences of Ghanaian women after breast cancer treatment.

Background:While breast cancer survival rates have improved globally, women in low-resource settings such as Ghana face unique challenges following active treatment. Despite a growing number of survivors, little is known about their lived experiences of post-treatment recovery.Objective:This study described the self-management strategies and psychosocial experiences of breast cancer survivors at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), one of Ghana’s leading cancer centers.Methods:A descriptive phenomenological design guided by Husserlian philosophy was used. Twenty purposively selected women who had completed active breast cancer treatment at least three months prior participated in in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Data were collected in Twi, transcribed, translated, and analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step framework, ensuring analytical rigor and participant validation.Results:Three main themes emerged: (1) holistic self-management for post-treatment recovery, including intentional medication adherence, physical rehabilitation, and dietary changes; (2) psychosocial and emotional navigation marked by fear of recurrence, altered body image, and disrupted relational dynamics; and (3) resilience shaped by social support, spirituality, and adaptive coping strategies. Survivors drew strength from their families, faith, and cultural adaptations but lacked structured post-treatment care.Conclusion:Survivorship among Ghanaian women is influenced by personal agency, cultural norms, and the lack of formal support systems. These findings highlight the urgent need to develop culturally sensitive, resource-appropriate survivorship care models that address emotional, physical, and social aspects of recovery in low-resource settings.