Core Insights - Breast cancer is the most common cancer type among women, with 357,200 new cases reported in China in 2022, making it the second most prevalent malignant tumor among females [2] - Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) poses significant challenges, requiring long-term treatment and causing both physical pain and psychological stress for patients [2][17] - The emotional and psychological needs of breast cancer patients often go unrecognized, highlighting the importance of understanding their experiences [3] Group 1: Psychological Impact and Support - Many breast cancer patients experience feelings of incompleteness due to the loss of a breast, which can affect their self-image and societal perceptions of normalcy [4][5] - Self-blame is a common reaction among newly diagnosed patients, leading to increased anxiety and depression, with studies indicating that self-blame can exacerbate psychological distress [7][8][10] - Openly expressing emotions and seeking support from family and peers can significantly aid in coping with the disease, as hiding feelings may lead to increased isolation [11][13][15] Group 2: Quality of Life and Treatment Advances - Despite the challenges, breast cancer patients can still lead high-quality lives, as advancements in medical treatments have improved survival rates and options for managing the disease [18][19] - The psychological burden of breast cancer often correlates with physical symptoms, with a high prevalence of anxiety (84.1%) and depression (25.2%) among patients with advanced stages of the disease [17] - Innovative therapies, such as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), are becoming more prevalent, providing targeted treatment options that can enhance patients' quality of life [18] Group 3: Family Dynamics and Communication - The impact of breast cancer extends beyond the individual, significantly affecting family dynamics and the roles of patients within their households [21] - Effective communication with children about the illness is crucial, as it can alleviate fears and misconceptions, helping to maintain a sense of stability in the family [24][26] - Maintaining routines and providing emotional support to children can help them adapt to changes brought about by a parent's illness, fostering a sense of security [27]