African American women with breast cancer and their spouses' perception of care received from physicians.

Several studies have been conducted which have examined the communication patterns and interpersonal relationships among minority patients and their physicians. These studies suggest that there are differences in the care received from physicians based on the racial and cultural background of the patient. However, little is known about the interpersonal relationships and communication patterns of AA couples coping with a breast cancer diagnosis and their physicians.

African American couples merging strengths to successfully cope with breast cancer.

Purpose/objectives: To explore the process of coping with breast cancer among African American women and their spouses.

Design: Exploratory, qualitative study using grounded theory methods.

Setting: Large metropolitan area in the mid-Atlantic United States.