Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is a distressing disease with physical and psychosocial consequences that persisted beyond the period of diagnosis and treatments. Being diagnosed with cancer creates a stressful situation that influences both a person's personal and family life. Objective: This study sought to explore appraisal of cervical cancer diagnosis among patients on follow-up treatment at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: Data were collected through in-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview guide with 11 purposively selected cervical cancer patients. The qualitative data were transcribed and analyzed via thematic analysis. Results: The findings indicated that most women were found to appraise their illness negatively and had a strong emotional reaction as soon as they heard their diagnosis of cervical cancer. Most of the women have limited awareness and misunderstanding regarding their illness. These leads to utilizing traditional/religious practices, delay in seeking medical care, and experiencing stigma in the community. Conclusion: It was concluded that enhancing cervical cancer awareness campaigns to alleviate knowledge gaps and misconceptions should be considered to help reduce delays in seeking medical care and stigmatization in the community

Keywords: Cervical Cancer, Appraisal, Ethiopia