Family support of immigrant Punjabi women with breast cancer.

Women with breast cancer have been found to rely heavily on family members for providing support during their illness experiences. There has been limited research on ethnocultural families' experiences of illness and how these families respond to a diagnosis of breast cancer. This study examined the experiences and responses of family members of immigrant Punjabi women diagnosed with breast cancer. Through interviews with 19 Punjabi women diagnosed with breast cancer and 18 family members, key practical and emotional support strategies were described. Recommendations for culturally appropriate, family-centered models of care are provided that acknowledge breast cancer as a family event.