To Fit or Not to Fit: A Breast Cancer Patient's Post-Treatment Garment Selection Dilemma

Abstract

Academic research has ignored the needs of breast cancer patients for fit in garment selection, in contrast to disability individuals. This type of consumer, it is suggested, warrants special attention in study. After treatment, the majority of breast cancer patients experience a variety of changes, including physical alterations, psychological concerns, and social concerns. These alterations result in stigma or a poor image. This report presents the findings of an exploratory study that aimed to learn more about breast cancer patients' preferences for garment fit. During the interview, ten informants' spontaneous speech was audio/visually recorded, and sketches were used as an artefact probe. Inductive thematic analysis was used to examine the data, and three significant themes emerged: loose cutting, true size, and flexibility. These breast cancer women had a love-hate connection with clothing fit and sizing, particularly ready-made apparel, and used well-fitting garments to boost self-confidence, hide defects, and appear as normal as possible. Ideas for future study directions in these areas are discussed.