Breast cancer rehabilitation : a holistic approach to wearable product design : an exegesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Master of Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand. EMBARGOED until futher notice.
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Date
2023
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Massey University
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Abstract
Breast cancer is a devastating disease that affects millions of women worldwide, often resulting in traumatic experiences with lasting physical and emotional consequences. A significant challenge for breast cancer patients is finding well-fitting bras that accommodate their unique shapes, sizes, and healing requirements. Despite being one of the most engineered and patented ready-to-wear garments, functional bra designs still leave much to be desired, particularly in postoperative care. In addition, the current focus on functionality over emotional connection neglects their unique physical and physiological healing requirements, resulting in a lack of suitable options and exacerbating feelings of self-consciousness and anxiety. This Master of Design research drew on the intersections between appraisal theories, co-design processes, and empathetic design methodologies to develop a comprehensive understanding of how to design bras that address breast cancer patients’ physical and emotional challenges. The method employed a multi-stage human-centred co-design practice to ensure original quantitative and qualitative insights and validations provided by all stakeholders throughout the design development. It highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary design incorporating fashion, textiles, design, and manufacturing processes to create a more personalised and effective solution that addresses the complex needs of the user group—combining innovative technologies, 3D body scanning, 3D knitting, 3D printing, and wearable technology, alongside specialised CAD software allowed for an iterative design process that streamlined development and manufacturing workflows. Contextual research compared, contrasted, and identified the gap between contemporary and traditional bra fit and design methods. In addition, it considered the challenge of innovating a product ingrained in our daily lives, aiming to inform future developments and increase engagement and awareness surrounding the wearers’ rehabilitation, identity, and individual fit. Design, in addressing these challenges, can provide a more holistic approach to patient rehabilitation and lead to improvement in their quality of life.
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Image inside cover removed for copyright reasons. Other images are re-used with permission, or under NZ copyright Act 1994 s.42, which allows for the copying of a work for criticism or review accompanied by sufficient acknowledgement.