Tivani, Tsakane2018-09-072018-09-072016https://hdl.handle.net/10539/25598The Department of Social Work School of Human and Community Development Faculty of Humanities University of the Witwatersrand In partial fulfilment of the requirements For the degree Bachelor of Social WorkBreast cancer is identified as one of the most serious disease women face all over the world. It has been described as having physical and emotional challenges for both women and their families (Henderson, 2011). The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions women have about breast cancer in Bolobedu Area, Limpopo. The study used a qualitative research approach. Since qualitative is concerned with meaning that participants attach to their life experience, the researcher used exploratory case studies. Using non-probability purposive sampling technique, the researcher interviewed ten participants and two key informants using two different semi-structured interview schedules. There was an interview schedule for participants and a different one for key-informants. During the face-to-face individual interviews, data was recorded with the participants consent and transcribed verbatim. The most important problem that emerged from thematic analysis of the discussion included lack of knowledge about breast cancer, symptoms and self-examination. It is important for social workers to understand all the components that might exist with different individuals in various contexts in order to empower them. This study is likely to contribute to knowledge and social work practice with appropriate breast cancer intervention, especially in the rural areas in South Africa. Keywords: breast cancer, women, rural areaenThesis