Breast Cancer Survivorship in African American Women

With advances in screening, diagnostic capabilities, and treatments, the amount of breast cancer survivors continues to grow. African American (AA) breast cancer survivors (BCS) are a particularly vulnerable group, who experience persistent disparities in outcomes, information, and support post primary cancer treatment. Peer navigation (PN) in AA BCS could be one strategy to increase quality of life and follow-up care after treatment, though research on quality of life and PN in this population is limited. This dissertation first examines factors contributing to quality of life in AA BCS, utilizing the Quality of Life Model Applied to Cancer Survivors. Next, the experiences of AA women who have completed treatment for breast cancer are examined through a qualitative grounded theory study. Finally, the PI developed a PN intervention, and evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and targeted outcomes through a mixed methods proof of concept study. The information presented within this dissertation creates the foundation for future studies implementing the PN intervention to increase quality of life and following up care in African American women completing treatment for breast cancer