Symptom experience in endocrine therapy for breast cancer patients: A qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis

Objective: The purpose of this study was to systematically integrate the experience of symptoms of breast cancer patients receiving endocrine therapy, analyze the patients' understanding and coping status of symptoms, and provide information for the development of targeted symptom management measures. Methods: We searched databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, MEDLINE (Ovid), Web of Science, EMBASE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), and ProQuest from inception to September 25, 2023. Literature was screened and analyzed using Endnote software, evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool for Qualitative Research, and the results were integrated using JBI's Pooled Integration Methodology. Results: Three composite findings were derived from 10 studies: symptom distress during endocrine therapy; coping in symptom experience; and support needs. Conclusions: Emphasis should be placed on the symptomatic experience of breast cancer patients undergoing endocrine therapy, and effective interventions should be developed to improve patients' medication compliance and quality of life. Finally, the long-term survival rate of patients is improved. Systematic review registration: CRD42023466073.