Exploring women’s perceptions of climate-related environmental stressors and their influence on palliative care experiences and quality of life among women with breast cancer in Ghana: a qualitative descriptive study

Climate change is increasingly recognized as a major global health threat, with disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations, including women living with breast cancer who are receiving palliative care. These women often experience compounded physical, psychological, and socioeconomic burdens that may be intensified by climate-related stressors such as heatwaves, flooding, and disruptions to healthcare delivery. However, there is limited evidence from low- and middle-income countries, including Ghana, on the effects of climate change on patients receiving palliative care and their quality of life (QoL). A qualitative descriptive design was employed to explore the experiences of women with breast cancer receiving palliative care at Ho Teaching Hospital, Ghana. Thirty participants were purposively sampled between January and March 2026. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted face-to-face. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman’s conventional content analysis approach. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability strategies. Ethical clearance was received before data collection began (HTH-REC/EX/2026/003). Participants described climate-related disruptions as becoming intertwined with their experience of advanced breast cancer and palliative care. They explained that extreme heat, flooding, and unreliable electricity worsened symptoms, disrupted treatment continuity, increased emotional and financial burdens, and limited access to essential care. Despite these challenges, participants relied on family, healthcare providers, spiritual beliefs, and community support to adapt and maintain their wellbeing. This study found that climate-related environmental stressors, including extreme heat, flooding, and unreliable electricity, were perceived to adversely influence the palliative care continuum and the quality of life of women with breast cancer. Strengthening climate-resilient palliative care systems, improving healthcare infrastructure, expanding community-based services, and integrating climate adaptation into oncology nursing practice and policy are essential to enhance continuity of care and improve patient outcomes in the context of increasing extreme weather events.