The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer breast cancer-specific quality-of-life questionnaire module: first results from a three-country field study

Decision Aids and Breast Cancer: Do They Influence Choice for Surgery and Knowledge of Treatment Options?

Purpose

To describe the effect of decision aids on the choice for surgery and knowledge of surgical therapy among women with early-stage breast cancer.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted between years 1966 to 2006 of all studies designed to assess the effect of decision aids on surgical therapy. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL), the Cochrane Network, HAPI databases, and bibliographies were searched. Of the 123 studies screened, 11 studies met criteria. Meta-analyses were performed to assess the pooled relative risk for surgical choice and the pooled mean difference in patient knowledge.

Results

Results from randomized controlled trials indicated that women who used a decision aid were 25% more likely to choose breast-conserving surgery over mastectomy (risk ratio, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.11 to 1.40). Decision aids significantly increased patient knowledge by 24% (P = .024). The data also suggested that decision aids decreased decisional conflict and increased satisfaction with the decision-making process. Decision aids were well received by surgeons and patients, facilitated patients’ desire for shared decision making, and were feasible to implement into practice.

Conclusion

Decision aids are important adjuncts for counseling women with early-stage breast cancer. Their use increases the likelihood that women will choose breast-conserving surgery, and enhances patient knowledge of treatment options.

Has the quality of health-related quality of life reporting in cancer clinical trials improved over time? Towards bridging the gap with clinical decision making

BACKGROUND

Previous work highlighted a number of methodological constraints when reporting health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Given this, the objective of this study was to investigate whether the quality of such HRQOL reports has improved over time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

On the basis of a predefined set of criteria, 159 RCTs with a HRQOL end point, published between 1990 and 2004 were identified and analyzed. Each study was evaluated by a number of issues (e.g. sample size and industry sponsorship) and by the "minimum standard checklist for evaluating HRQOL outcomes in cancer clinical trials".

RESULTS

The quality of HRQOL reports, as measured by the overall checklist score, was independently related to more recently published studies (P < 0.0001). This relationship was independent of industry funded, HRQOL end point (primary versus secondary), cancer disease site, size of the study and HRQOL difference between treatment arms. While only 39.3% of studies published between 1990 and 2000 (89/159 RCTs) were identified as being probably robust, thus likely to support clinical decision making, this percentage was 64.3% for studies published after 2000 (70/159 RCTs).

CONCLUSION

Since we found a significant learning curve in HRQOL trial reporting since 1990, it can be expected that HRQOL data will increasingly impact on clinical decision making and treatment policies in the near future.

A population-based study of the impact of specific symptoms on quality of life in women with breast cancer 1 year after diagnosis

BACKGROUND

Whereas the role of specific symptoms, such as pain and fatigue, for quality of life (QOL) is unquestioned, their relative importance for long-lasting impairments in QOL in cancer patients has rarely been assessed quantitatively. The authors, therefore, aimed to identify symptoms most predictive of limitations to function and overall QOL in women with breast cancer after completion of primary therapy.

METHODS

The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer questionnaire QLQ-C30 and the breast-cancer-specific module QLQ-BR23 were used to measure QOL in a population-based sample from Saarland (Germany) of 314 women with breast cancer 1 year after diagnosis. Symptoms most predictive for limitations to function and overall QOL were identified with a multiple linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

Fatigue emerged as the strongest predictor by far of QOL, explaining around 30% to 50% of variability within function scores and overall QOL. Other symptoms, including pain, nausea and/or vomiting, breast symptoms, systemic therapy side effects, and arm symptoms, explained on average <5% of variability of various QOL scales beyond fatigue and age. Sociodemographic and clinical factors had little impact on QOL.

CONCLUSIONS

Although QOL is a multidimensional concept, the analysis suggested that fatigue is the symptom that had, by far, the largest impact on limiting function and on overall QOL in breast cancer patients after their completion of primary therapy. Specific interventions to reduce the burden of fatigue may represent a particularly worthwhile effort to improve QOL in women with breast cancer.

Psychometric properties of the simplified Chinese version of the EORTC QLQ-BR53 for measuring quality of life for breast cancer patients

A Simplified Chinese version of the EORTC QLQ-BR53 was evaluated using responses from 233 patients with breast cancer in China by assessing the construct and criterion-related validity, internal consistency and test-retest reliability, and responsiveness as measured by score changes of the scales. Internal consistency reliability measured by Cronbach's coefficient alpha is greater than 0.75 for most multi-item scales except cognitive functioning (0.41) and breast symptoms (0.71). Test-retest reliability coefficients for all domains are greater than 0.80 with the exception of physical functioning (0.65), social functioning (0.75), appetite loss (0.75), diarrhea (0.72), and body image (0.72). Correlation and factor analysis among domains and items showed good construct validity for both QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23. Score changes over time were observed in most domains except emotional functioning, global health status/QOL, dyspnoea, constipation, diarrhea, financial difficulties, sexual functioning, sexual enjoyment, and breast symptoms. Therefore, the Simplified Chinese version of QLQ-BR53 shows reasonable validity, reliability, and responsiveness and can be used to measure QOL for Chinese patients with breast cancer.

Multifaceted psychosocial intervention program for breast cancer patients after first recurrence: feasibility study

We developed a novel multifaceted psychosocial intervention program which involves screening for psychological distress and comprehensive support including individually tailored psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy provided by mental health professionals. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the feasibility of the intervention program and its preliminary usefulness for reducing clinical psychological distress experienced by patients with recurrent breast cancer. The subjects who participated in the 3 months intervention program completed psychiatric diagnostic interview and several self-reported measures regarding psychological distress, traumatic stress, and quality of life. The assessments were conducted before the intervention (T1), after the intervention (T2), and 3 months after the intervention (T3). A total of 50 patients participated in the study. The rates of participation in and adherence to the intervention program were 85 and 86%, respectively. While the proportion of psychiatric disorders at T2 (11.6%) was not significantly different from that at T1 (22.0%) (p = 0.15), the proportion of that at T3 (7.7%) had significantly decreased compared with that at T1 (p = 0.005). The novel intervention program is feasible, is a promising strategy for reducing clinically manifested psychological distress and further controlled studies are warranted.

Health state utilities for metastatic breast cancer

The aim of the study was to obtain United Kingdom-based societal preferences for distinct stages of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) and six common toxicities. Health states were developed based on literature review, iterative cycles of interviews and a focus group with clinical experts. They described the burden of progressive, responding and stable disease on treatment; and also febrile neutropenia, stomatitis; diarrhoea/vomiting; fatigue; hand-foot syndrome (grade 3/4 toxicities) and hair loss. One hundred members of the general public rated them using standard gamble to determine health state utility. Data were analysed with a mixed model analysis. The study sample was a good match to the general public of England and Wales by demographics and current quality of life. Stable disease on treatment had a utility value of 0.72, with a corresponding gain of +0.07 following a treatment response and a decline by 0.27 for disease progression. Toxicities lead to declines in utility between 0.10 (diarrhoea/vomiting) and 0.15 (febrile neutropenia). This study underlines the value that society place on the avoidance of disease progression and severe side effects in MBC. This may be the largest preference study in breast cancer designed to survey a representative general public sample.

Progressive resistance training and stretching following surgery for breast cancer: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Background

Currently 1 in 11 women over the age of 60 in Australia are diagnosed with breast cancer. Following treatment, most breast cancer patients are left with shoulder and arm impairments which can impact significantly on quality of life and interfere substantially with activities of daily living. The primary aim of the proposed study is to determine whether upper limb impairments can be prevented by undertaking an exercise program of prolonged stretching and resistance training, commencing soon after surgery.

Methods/design

We will recruit 180 women who have had surgery for early stage breast cancer to a multicenter single-blind randomized controlled trial. At 4 weeks post surgery, women will be randomly assigned to either an exercise group or a usual care (control) group. Women allocated to the exercise group will perform exercises daily, and will be supervised once a week for 8 weeks. At the end of the 8 weeks, women will be given a home-based training program to continue indefinitely. Women in the usual care group will receive the same care as is now typically provided, i.e. a visit by the physiotherapist and occupational therapist while an inpatient, and receipt of pamphlets. All subjects will be assessed at baseline, 8 weeks, and 6 months later. The primary measure is arm symptoms, derived from a breast cancer specific questionnaire (BR23). In addition, range of motion, strength, swelling, pain and quality of life will be assessed.

Discussion

This study will determine whether exercise commencing soon after surgery can prevent secondary problems associated with treatment of breast cancer, and will thus provide the basis for successful rehabilitation and reduction in ongoing problems and health care use. Additionally, it will identify whether strengthening exercises reduce the incidence of arm swelling.

Trial Registration

The protocol for this study is registered with the Australian Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN012606000050550).

Epirubicin and cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and fluorouracil as adjuvant therapy for early breast cancer

BACKGROUND

The National Epirubicin Adjuvant Trial (NEAT) and the BR9601 trial examined the efficacy of anthracyclines in the adjuvant treatment of early breast cancer.

METHODS

In NEAT, we compared four cycles of epirubicin followed by four cycles of cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and fluorouracil (CMF) with six cycles of CMF alone. In the BR9601 trial, we compared four cycles of epirubicin followed by four cycles of CMF, with eight cycles of CMF alone every 3 weeks. The primary end points were relapse-free and overall survival. The secondary end points were adverse effects, dose intensity, and quality of life.

RESULTS

The two trials included 2391 women with early breast cancer; the median follow-up was 48 months. Relapse-free and overall survival rates were significantly higher in the epirubicin-CMF groups than in the CMF-alone groups (2-year relapse-free survival, 91% vs. 85%; 5-year relapse-free survival, 76% vs. 69%; 2-year overall survival, 95% vs. 92%; 5-year overall survival, 82% vs. 75%; P<0.001 by the log-rank test for all comparisons). Hazard ratios for relapse (or death without relapse) (0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.58 to 0.82; P<0.001) and death from any cause (0.67; 95% CI, 0.55 to 0.82; P<0.001) favored epirubicin plus CMF over CMF alone. Independent prognostic factors were nodal status, tumor grade, tumor size, and estrogen-receptor status (P<0.001 for all four factors) and the presence or absence of vascular or lymphatic invasion (P=0.01). These factors did not significantly interact with the effect of epirubicin plus CMF. The overall incidence of adverse effects was significantly higher with epirubicin plus CMF than with CMF alone but did not significantly affect the delivered-dose intensity or the quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

Epirubicin plus CMF is superior to CMF alone as adjuvant treatment for early breast cancer. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00003577 [ClinicalTrials.gov].).

Health-related quality of life in disease-free survivors of breast cancer with the general population

BACKGROUND

Although most of the literature about health-related quality of life (HRQoL) focuses on breast cancer patients, few studies compared the HRQoL in disease-free breast cancer survivors with that of the general population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We administered the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 and Quality of Life Questionnaire Breast Cancer Module, McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, and Brief Fatigue Inventory to 1933 disease-free survivors for over 1 year after being diagnosed with stage 0 to III breast cancer. We performed multivariate-adjusted analyses in all HRQoL comparisons.

RESULTS

The scores for some health-related quality of life [corrected] HRQoL scales were comparable for both disease-free breast cancer survivors and the general female population, but [corrected] there was a [corrected] clinically significant difference between the two groups [corrected] in cognitive and social functioning, fatigue, insomnia, financial difficulties, body image, future perspective, breast symptoms, and arm symptoms. [corrected]

CONCLUSIONS

Disease-free survivors of breast cancer had good HRQoL, which was less affected by the type of treatment than it was by demographic characteristics, time since surgery, comorbidity, fatigue, and depression.

Randomized clinical trial on cognitive therapy for depression in women with metastatic breast cancer: Psychological and immunological effects

Objective:Depression is particularly prevalent in patients with advanced cancer. Cognitive therapy (CT) is an empirically supported treatment for depression in the general population. However, efficacy remains to be demonstrated in patients with advanced cancer. A prior controlled trial of CT in a group format showed improvements in depression, mood disturbance, and self-esteem; however, these effects were not maintained over time. Studies examining the efficacy of individual format CT interventions that may ensure more long-term maintenance of benefits are necessary. This study assessed the efficacy of CT for depression administered individually in women with metastatic breast cancer and its effect on immune function.

Method: Forty-five women were randomly assigned to either individual CT or to a waiting-list control (WLC) condition. CT was composed of eight weekly sessions of CT and three booster sessions administered at 3-week intervals following the end of treatment.

Results: Patients treated with CT had significantly lower scores on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale at posttreatment compared to untreated patients. Pooled data from both groups indicated significant reductions of depressive symptoms from pre- to posttreatment, as well as reduction of associated symptoms including anxiety, fatigue, and insomnia symptoms. These effects were well sustained at the 3- and 6-month follow-up evaluations. CT for depression did not appear to have a significant impact on immune functioning.

Significance of results: Findings of this study support the efficacy of CT for depression in this population and suggest that the administration of individual and booster sessions after treatment termination may be instrumental in sustaining the treatment effects over time.

Short term psychological distress in patients actively approached for genetic counselling after diagnosis of breast cancer

This prospective study assessed anxiety, depression and breast cancer-specific distress in recently diagnosed breast cancer patients before and after an active approach for genetic counselling at the beginning of adjuvant radiotherapy (mean: 52 days after surgery). Patients completed the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) and the impact of event scale (IES). Psychological distress did not increase after the approach. High anxiety decreased in the comparison group (n=182), whereas breast cancer specific distress decreased in the approached group (n=220). It is concluded that breast cancer patients can be approached for genetic counselling shortly after surgery without additional short-term psychological burden. Patients who are young, single with little social support, less optimistic, use an avoiding coping style, experience a lower quality of life or who are highly distressed prior to approach for genetic counselling, need extra attention. Medical history did not prove to be relevant.

Reliability and validity of the body image after breast cancer questionnaire

The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability and validity of the Body Image After Breast Cancer Questionnaire (BIBCQ) in a series of outpatients with breast cancer. One hundred sixty-four breast cancer patients attending outpatient clinics completed questionnaires at baseline. The patients' BIBCQ scores were compared with their scores on related psychological measures including depression, self-esteem, quality of life, and sexual functioning. Scores on the BIBCQ for women after mastectomy and breast conservation were compared. Select items of the BIBCQ were compared between women with and without breast cancer. Patients received a second questionnaire after a 2 week interval to assess test-retest reliability. Good reliability was found for the six scales (ranging from 0.77 to 0.87). The BIBCQ correlated with similar measures as predicted, but not with a measure of social desirability. The BIBCQ distinguished between women treated with lumpectomy and mastectomy, and between women with breast cancer and a control group, supporting the validity of the BIBCQ. The BIBCQ provides a reliable and valid assessment of the long-term impact of breast cancer on body image. It is suitable for use in research focusing on this issue.

Metastatic breast cancer: do current treatments improve quality of life? A prospective study

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE

In metastatic breast cancer cases, the currently available therapeutic approaches provide minimal improvement in survival. As such, quality of life (QOL) becomes one of the main objectives of treatment. It is not known whether current treatments derived from trials improve QOL. The aim was to evaluate changes in QOL among metastatic breast cancer patients receiving treatment derived from trials.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Prospective observational QOL survey in a tertiary cancer center.

METHODS

To evaluate the influence of current treatments on patients' QOL, the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) were applied on three occasions: before starting treatment and at the 6th and 12th weeks, to consecutive metastatic breast cancer patients over a one-year period.

RESULTS

We found an improvement in QOL in the sample evaluated (n = 40), expressed by changes in the overall SF-36 score (p = 0.002) and the BDI (p = 0.004). Taken individually, the SF-36 components Pain, Social Functioning and Mental Health also improved significantly. Patients with worse initial performance status and secondary symptoms displayed greater improvement than those with better initial performance status and asymptomatic disease (p < 0.001). Patients who received more than one type of therapy showed larger gains than those given only one type (p = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

In our environment, current metastatic breast cancer treatments can improve QOL, especially among symptomatic patients and those with low performance status.

Psychological morbidity and quality of life in women with advanced breast cancer: A cross-sectional survey

Objective:Our purpose was to determine the frequency of psychiatric morbidity and to assess the quality of life of women with advanced breast cancer.

Methods:The 227 women in the sample were recruited in Melbourne, Australia, and were interviewed (prior to intervention) for a randomized controlled trial of supportive-expressive group therapy. The main outcome measures were DSM–IV psychiatric diagnoses plus quality of life data based on the EORTC QLQ-C30 (core) and QLQ-BR23 (breast module) instruments.

Results:Forty-two percent of the women (97/227) had a psychiatric disorder; 35.7% (81) of these had depression or anxiety or both. Specific diagnoses were minor depression in 58 women (25.6%), major depression in 16 (7%), anxiety disorder in 14 (6.2%), and phobic disorder in 9 (4%). Seventeen (7.5%) women had more than one disorder. In terms of quality of life, one-third felt less attractive, one-quarter were dissatisfied with their body image, and, in most, sexual interest had waned. Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes affected less than one-third, whereas symptoms of lymphedema were experienced by 26 (11.5%).

Significance:Women with advanced breast cancer have high rates of psychiatric and psychological disturbance. Quality of life is substantially affected. Clinicians need to be vigilant in monitoring psychological adjustment as part of a comprehensive biopsychosocial approach.

Quality of life in newly diagnosed cancer patients waiting for surgery is seriously impaired

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Newly diagnosed cancer patients waiting for initial surgery experience a stressful time. Study objectives were (1) to examine the quality of life (QL) of these patients by comparing QL (a) between the four diagnostic groups included in this study, (b) to the QL of the general population, (2) to determine the factors that contribute most to patients' overall QL.

METHODS

One hundred ninety six patients with lung, periampullary, oesophageal and cervical cancer completed questionnaires on generic QL (SF-36), overall QL, cancer-site specific symptoms (EORTC-modules), anxiety (STAI), health expectations, demographics and comorbidity.

RESULTS

Between diagnostic groups no significant differences were found on generic QL. As compared to the general population, generic QL was impaired on all aspects except bodily pain. Using stepwise regression analysis, 46% of the variance in overall QL was explained with the SF-36 scales vitality (Beta = 0.43) and mental health (Beta = 0.23) being the most important predictors.

CONCLUSIONS

The QL of these patients is seriously impaired. In this stage, not cancer-site specific aspects but fatigue and emotions colour their lives. It is recommended to keep the waiting period brief. In addition, suggestions are offered by which physicians might help their patients in alleviating the distress.

Toxicity and health-related quality of life in breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant docetaxel, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide (TAC) or 5-fluorouracil, doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (FAC): impact of adding primary prophylactic granulocyte-colony stimulating factor to the TAC regimen

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to analyse the toxicity and health related quality of life (HRQoL) of breast cancer patients treated with FAC (5-fluorouracil, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide) and TAC (docetaxel, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide) with and without primary prophylactic G-CSF (PPG).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a phase III study to compare FAC and TAC as adjuvant treatment of high-risk node-negative breast cancer patients. After the entry of the first 237 patients, the protocol was amended to include PPG in the TAC arm due to the high incidence of febrile neutropenia. A total of 1047 evaluable patients from 49 centres in Spain, two in Poland and four in Germany were included in the trial. Side-effects and the scores of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ BR-23 questionnaires were compared in the three groups (FAC, TAC pre-amendment and TAC post-amendment).

RESULTS

The addition of PPG to TAC significantly reduced the incidence of neutropenic fever, grade 2-4 anaemia, asthenia, anorexia, nail disorders, stomatitis, myalgia and dysgeusia. Patient QoL decreased during chemotherapy, more with TAC than FAC, but returned to baseline values afterwards. The addition of PPG to TAC significantly reduced the percentage of patients with clinically relevant Global Health Status deterioration (10 or more points over baseline value) at the end of chemotherapy (64% versus 46%, P<0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of PPG significantly reduces the incidence of neutropenic fever associated with TAC chemotherapy as well as that of some TAC-induced haematological and extrahaematological side-effects. The HRQoL of patients treated with TAC is worse than that of those treated with FAC but improves with the addition of PPG, particularly in the final part of chemotherapy treatment.

Population-based study of the relationship of treatment and sociodemographics on quality of life for early stage breast cancer

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationship between cancer stage, surgical treatment and chemotherapy on quality of life (QOL) after breast cancer and determine if sociodemographic characteristics modify the observed relationships.

METHODS

A population-based sample of women with Stages 0-II breast cancer in the United States (N = 1357) completed surveys including the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), and the Breast Cancer-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ BR-23). Regression models calculated mean QOL scores across primary surgical treatment and chemotherapy. Clinically significant differences in QOL were defined as > or = 10 point difference (out of 100) between groups.

RESULTS

Meaningful differences in QOL by surgical treatment were limited to body image with women receiving mastectomy with reconstruction reporting lower scores than women receiving breast conserving surgery (p < 0.001). Chemotherapy lowered QOL scores overall across four QOL dimensions (p values < 0.001), with a disproportionately greater impact on those with lower levels of education. Younger women reported lower QOL scores for seven of nine QOL dimensions (p values < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Women should be reassured that few QOL differences exist based on surgical treatment, however, clinicians should recognize that the impact of treatment on QOL does vary by a woman's age and educational level.

Chemotherapy versus ovarian ablation as adjuvant therapy for breast cancer: impact on health-related quality of life in a randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Ovarian ablation is an effective adjuvant therapy for primary breast cancer but little is known about its quality of life impact relative to the more widely used adjuvant chemotherapy. This randomized study compared quality of life outcomes of adjuvant ovarian ablation versus cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, fluoracil (CMF) chemotherapy.

METHODS

The Danish Breast Cancer Cooperative Group (DBCG) trial 89-b randomized premenopausal patients with receptor-positive, primary breast cancer between nine cycles of CMF chemotherapy given every 3 weeks and ovarian ablation by oophorectomy. In total, 317 randomized patients were invited to take part in a longitudinal quality of life study with assessments at 1, 3, 5, 9, 15, and 24 months after randomization. The questionnaire included the EORTC QLQ-C30, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and additional items assessing potential symptoms not included in the standard instruments.

RESULTS

After 2 years, 260 women were alive and recurrence-free, and 196 of these (75%) had completed all six questionnaires. Overall, patients in the chemotherapy group had more symptomatology at the first three assessments (i.e., during the 6 months treatment period), except for hot flushes/sweats. There were few differences between groups at later assessments. In chemotherapy patients, the likelihood of preserving ovarian function decreased steeply with increasing age. CMF chemotherapy and ovarian ablation have similar impact on recurrence and survival.

CONCLUSION

Chemotherapy had more negative impact on health-related quality of life but preserved ovarian function in some younger patients.

Effects of delayed psychosocial interventions versus early psychosocial interventions for women with early stage breast cancer

OBJECTIVE

The importance of psychosocial counselling after a diagnosis of cancer has been acknowledged and many intervention studies have been carried out, with the aim to find out which types of intervention are most effective in enhancing quality of life in cancer patients. A factor which could be part of effective counselling could be the time of offering psychosocial counselling. The aim of this study was to research the effect of time of enrolment in a psychosocial group intervention on psychosocial adjustment.

METHODS

In the present study, 67 women with early stage breast cancer were randomised in a psychosocial group intervention program starting within 4 months after surgery or in the same intervention program starting at least 3 months later.

RESULTS

The main conclusion of this study is that women who started with their intervention early were less distressed at 6 months follow-up than women who were in the delayed condition. Medical and demographic variables were predictive for some psychosocial adjustment indicators, but were not associated with time of enrolment. Regardless of time of enrolment, women improved in distress, body image and recreational activities, but showed a decrease in social interaction.

CONCLUSION

Though results are limited, based on these results we suggest that psychosocial counselling should be offered as soon after diagnosis or surgery for breast cancer.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Women diagnosed with primary breast cancer should be able to start with psychological counselling soon after being diagnosed, to prevent them from becoming distressed at long term.

Health-related quality of life in long term breast cancer survivors treated with breast conserving therapy: impact of age at therapy

PURPOSE

Aim was to compare the functional status in long-term breast cancer survivors related to age at diagnosis and to asses the effects of adjuvant therapy on health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were obtained from 370 patients after breast conserving therapy (BCT) at follow-up (F/U) visit. The self-administered EORTC QoL questionnaire (C30) and the breast module (QLQ-BR23) measuring global health, global QoL, physical, role, emotional, cognitive and social functioning, body image, sexual function, future perspective and arm/breast symptoms were used. Patients were grouped according to F/U (12 years, 7 years), age at therapy (< 50 years, 50-65 years, >65 years) and adjuvant treatment (none, chemotherapy, hormone replacement therapy).

RESULTS

The global HRQoL was increased in patients with longer F/U (p < 0.01). Physical functioning, role functioning and sexual functioning were decreased in patients being older at therapy (> 65 years, p < 0.01). Increased arm symptoms were noticed in older women at longer follow-up. Younger women at therapy complained financial difficulties at follow-up (p < 0.006). Adjuvant chemotherapy and hormone replacement therapy did not affect physical and mental functioning.

CONCLUSION

Women of different age treated with BCT for breast cancer should be considered at a different risk for HRQoL disturbance at long term F/U in both, physical and psychological dimensions. In clinical practice, specific identification of those women with negative impact of diagnosis and treatment on long term HRQoL would help for targeted interventions. In clinical studies focusing on HRQoL, the compared groups need to be age-adjusted.

Intraoperative radiotherapy given as a boost for early breast cancer: long-term clinical and cosmetic results

PURPOSE

The standard radiotherapy (RT) of breast cancer consists of 50 Gy external beam RT (EBRT) to the whole breast followed by an electron boost of 10-16 Gy to the tumor bed, but this has several cosmetic disadvantages. Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) could be an alternative to overcome these.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

We evaluated 50 women with early breast cancer operated on in a dedicated IORT facility. Median dose of 10 Gy was delivered using 9-MeV electron beams. All patients received postoperative EBRT (50 Gy in 2 Gy fractions). Late toxicity and cosmetic results were assessed independently by two physicians according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Event v3.0 grading system and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer questionnaires.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 9.1 years (range, 5-15 years), two local recurrences were observed within the primary tumor bed. At the time of analysis, 45 patients are alive with (n = 1) or without disease. Among the 42 disease-free remaining patients, 6 experienced Grade 2 late subcutaneous fibrosis within the boost area. Overall, the scores indicated a very good quality of life and cosmesis was good to excellent in the evaluated patients.

CONCLUSION

Our results confirm that IORT given as a boost after breast-conserving surgery is a reliable alternative to conventional postoperative fractionated boost radiation.

Subjective morbidity and quality of life after sentinel node biopsy and axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Sentinel node (SN) biopsy is a minimally invasive surgical method for axillary staging in patients with breast cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate mid-term morbidity after SN biopsy and axillary lymph node (ALN) dissection in patients with breast cancer receiving breast-sparing treatment, and to determine its impact on quality of life (QOL).

METHODS

One hundred fifteen patients with breast cancer underwent breast-conserving treatment with SN biopsy alone (Group 1: n = 54), ALN dissection with or without SN biopsy (Group 2: n = 51), or SN biopsy followed by later ALN dissection (Group 3: n = 10).

RESULTS

The mean post-operative follow-up was 20.3 months (range: 10-31 months) in Group 1, 24.3 months (range: 10-33 months) in Group 2, and 19.1 months (range: 12-28 months) in Group 3. Arm-shoulder pain was reported by 21.2% of patients in Group 1, 52.9% in Group 2, and 60% in Group 3 (P = 0.002). An arm swelling sensation was reported by 0% of patients in Group 1, 21.6% in Group 2, and 10% in Group 3. Dysesthesias were reported by 5.7% of patients in Group 1, 51% in Group 2, and 50% in Group 3 (P < 0.001). The mean global QOL self-rating score was 7.6 in Group 1, 7.6 in Group 2, and 7.7 in Group 3 (no significant difference).

CONCLUSIONS

SN biopsy is associated with significantly lower mid-term morbidity than ALN dissection.

Beyond efficacy: the impact of combination antiretroviral therapy on quality of life

Combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) with two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) plus a protease inhibitor (PI) significantly improved the prognosis of patients with HIV. Nevertheless, the usefulness of the first PIs was sometimes compromised by poor tolerability, high pill burden, frequent dosing, and food and fluid restrictions. Consequently, initial ART choices evolved toward simpler PI-sparing regimens incorporating non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors or triple NRTIs. Because these PI-sparing alternatives also are imperfect, interest in PI-based approaches to initial therapy remains, especially in light of newer PIs that have a more favorable tolerability profile. The better safety and tolerability attributes of the newer PIs suggest that highly effective therapy can be administered while preserving patients' health-related quality of life. As long as the virologic activity of these newer PIs is comparable to that of existing options, differentiating features beyond efficacy are important in the choice of an appropriate treatment regimen for patients with HIV.

Persistence of Restrictions in Quality of Life From the First to the Third Year After Diagnosis in Women With Breast Cancer

Purpose

To assess whether detriments in quality of life (QOL) among women with breast cancer persist over years.

Patients and Methods

QOL was assessed in a population-based cohort of 314 women with breast cancer from Saarland (Germany) 1 and 3 years after diagnosis and compared internally and with reference data from the general population.

Results

Three years after diagnosis, deficits in QOL were still apparent for role, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning and for the symptoms of insomnia, fatigue, dyspnea, and financial difficulties. Differences between breast cancer patients and women from the general population were predominantly found in younger ages. Compared with the QOL scores measured 1 year after diagnosis, only minor functional changes were observed, but recurrence of breast cancer during the follow-up interval had a deleterious effect on QOL.

Conclusion

Deficits in role, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning persist over years in women with breast cancer and predominantly affect younger patients.

Psychiatric disorders following first breast cancer recurrence: prevalence, associated factors and relationship to quality of life

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of and factors associated with psychiatric disorders and the impact on quality of life (QOL) in patients with first breast cancer recurrence.

METHODS

We analyzed the baseline data on 50 consecutively enrolled recurrent breast cancer patients, participating in a feasibility study of multifaceted psychosocial intervention. Psychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), dysthymic disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder and adjustment disorders (AD), were evaluated according to the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-III-R and IV. The patients' demographic data, biomedical factors, social support, mental adjustment to cancer, personality traits and QOL were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Eleven (22%) met the DSM-III-R and IV criteria for MDD, PTSD or AD (MDD, 2%; PTSD, 2%; AD, 20%). Univariate analysis indicated that current doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide, presence of a confidant, past history of MDD, helplessness/hopelessness and neuroticism were significantly associated with psychiatric disorders. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, past history of MDD and helplessness/hopelessness were significant associated factors. Psychiatric disorders were significantly associated with lower functional scales ('emotional functioning', 'body image' and 'future perspective') and higher symptom scales ('appetite loss', 'diarrhea', 'fatigue' and 'nausea-vomiting') in QOL.

CONCLUSIONS

The result suggests that asking about history of depression and appropriate intervention, including psycho-education, are needed for patients with first breast cancer recurrence in order to detect and manage psychological distress. Although further studies are needed to clarify causal links between psychiatric disorders and QOL, patients' psychiatric disorders were associated with QOL.

Zoledronic acid significantly improves pain scores and quality of life in breast cancer patients with bone metastases: a randomised, crossover study of community vs hospital bisphosphonate administration

Patients with bone metastases from breast cancer often experience substantial skeletal complications – including debilitating bone pain – which negatively affect quality of life. Zoledronic acid (4 mg) has been demonstrated to reduce significantly the risk of skeletal complications in these patients and is administered via a short, 15-min infusion every 3 weeks, allowing the possibility for home administration. This study compared the efficacy and safety of zoledronic acid administered in the community setting vs the hospital setting in breast cancer patients with ⩾1 bone metastasis receiving hormonal therapy. After a lead-in phase of three infusions of 4 mg zoledronic acid in the hospital setting, 101 patients were randomized to receive three open-label infusions in the community or hospital setting, followed by three infusions in the opposite venue (a total of nine infusions). The Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Core Questionnaire 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) were used to assess potential benefits of zoledronic acid therapy. At study end, analysis of the BPI showed significant reductions in worst pain (P=0.008) and average pain in the last 7 days (P=0.039), and interference with general activity (P=0.012). In each case, there were significantly greater improvements in pain scores after treatment in the community setting compared with the hospital crossover setting for worst pain (P=0.021), average pain (P=0.003), and interference with general activity (P=0.001). Overall global health status showed a significant median improvement of 8.3% (P=0.013) at study end. Physical, emotional, and social functioning also showed significant overall improvement (P=0.013, 0.005, and 0.043, respectively). Furthermore, physical, role, and social functioning showed significantly greater improvements after treatment in the community setting compared with the hospital crossover setting (P=0.018, 0.001, and 0.026, respectively). There was no difference between hospital and community administration in renal or other toxicity, with zoledronic acid being well tolerated in both treatment settings. These data confirm the safety and quality-of-life benefits of zoledronic acid in breast cancer patients with bone metastases, particularly when administered in the community setting.

First-line gemcitabine versus epirubicin in postmenopausal women aged 60 or older with metastatic breast cancer: a multicenter, randomized, phase III study

BACKGROUND

This randomized, phase III study compared the efficacy and safety of first-line gemcitabine versus epirubicin in the treatment of postmenopausal women with metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients aged > or = 60 years (median 68 years) with clinically measurable MBC received either gemcitabine 1200 mg/m(2) or epirubicin 35 mg/m(2) on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle.

RESULTS

Of 410 patients entered, 397 (198 gemcitabine and 199 epirubicin) were randomized and qualified for the time to progressive disease (TTP) and survival analyses. Total cycles administered in 185 gemcitabine and 192 epirubicin patients, respectively, were 699 (mean 3.5, range 0-12) and 917 (mean 4.6, range 0-10). Epirubicin demonstrated statistically significant superiority in TTP (6.1 and 3.4 months, P=0.0001), overall survival (19.1 and 11.8 months, P=0.0004), and independently assessed response rate (40.3% and 16.4% in 186 and 183 evaluable patients, P <0.001). For gemcitabine (n=190) and epirubicin (n=192), respectively, common WHO grade 3/4 toxicities were neutropenia (25.3% and 17.9%) and leukopenia (14.3% and 19.3%). Of the 28 on-study deaths (17 gemcitabine, 11 epirubicin), three were considered possibly or probably related to treatment (gemcitabine).

CONCLUSIONS

Postmenopausal women > or =60 years of age with MBC tolerate chemotherapy well. In this study, epirubicin was superior to gemcitabine in the treatment of MBC in women age > or =60, confirming that anthracyclines remain important drugs for first-line treatment of MBC.

Evaluation of Outcome After Immediate Breast Reconstruction: Prospective Comparison of Four Methods

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the association among different methods to assess outcome following breast reconstruction. The aim of this study was to comprehensively compare four distinct methods of outcome evaluation following immediate breast reconstruction.

METHODS

There were 102 women who were prospectively evaluated: 46 patients had submuscular implants, and 56 patients had implant-assisted latissimus dorsi breast reconstruction. The mean patient age at the time of operation was 46 years (range, 22 to 72 years), with a mean follow-up of 18 months (range, 12 to 24 months). All patients were evaluated using geometric measurements, photographs, linear analogue scores, and a quality-of-life questionnaire. The Wilcoxon signed rank test, Spearman's correlation, and factor analysis statistics were used.

RESULTS

Transverse breast width, vertical breast height, sternal notch-nipple, midclavicular line-nipple, nipple-inframammary crease, midline-nipple, internipple, and intermammary measurements were reproducible and reliable. Median differences of absolute vertical and horizontal differences were less than 1 cm and were associated with high levels of patient satisfaction. Assessors asked to score photographs without being specifically requested to consider shape, cleavage, or symmetry would focus mainly on vertical and horizontal differences. There was a high correlation between surgeon and patient linear analogue scores. Quality-of-life questionnaires provide valuable information on body image, physical effects, and continued cancer worry. Factor analyses failed to identify components to compress data fields to obtain equivalent information from fewer questions.

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of immediate breast reconstruction is complex. Cumbersome data collection has to be balanced against practical variables that individual units can collect to evaluate outcome for audit and research.

A combination of distribution- and anchor-based approaches determined minimally important differences (MIDs) for four endpoints in a breast cancer scale

OBJECTIVE

To determine distribution- and anchor-based minimal important difference (MID) estimates for four scores from the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B): the breast cancer subscale (BCS), Trial Outcome Index (TOI), FACT-G (the general version), and FACT-B.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

We used data from a Phase III clinical trial in metastatic breast cancer (ECOG study 1193; n=739) and a prospective observational study of pain in metastatic breast cancer (n=129). One third and one half of the standard deviation and 1 standard error of measurement were used as distribution-based criteria. Clinical indicators used to determine anchor-based differences included ECOG performance status, current pain, and response to treatment.

RESULTS

FACT-B scores were responsive to performance status and pain anchors, but not to treatment response. By combining the results of distribution- and anchor-based methods, MID estimates were obtained: BCS=2-3 points, TOI=5-6 points, FACT-G=5-6 points, and FACT-B=7-8 points.

CONCLUSION

Distribution- and anchor-based estimates of the MID do show convergence. These estimates can be used in combination with other measures of efficacy to determine meaningful benefit and provide a basis for sample size estimation in clinical trials.

A feasibility study of psychosocial group intervention for breast cancer patients with first recurrence

GOALS OF WORK

The effects of psychosocial group interventions on improving quality of life (QOL) for patients with recurrent breast cancer are not well known. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of a psychosocial group intervention in Japanese women with first recurrence of breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

The subjects were consecutively selected from among patients who were diagnosed with a first recurrence of breast cancer. We conducted a 6-week psychosocial group intervention. QOL was assessed using the Profile of Mood States (POMS), the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, the Mental Adjustment to Cancer (MAC) scale, and the European Organization for Research and the Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire-Cancer 30/Breast module 23 (QLQ-C30/Br23) at baseline then immediately and 3 and 6 months after completion of the intervention.

RESULTS

Among 58 eligible patients, written consent was obtained from 28 (48%), and the final evaluation was conducted on 19 subjects. The repeated measured analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed a significant change in tension-anxiety, depression-dejection, anger-hostility and total mood disturbance on the POMS, helplessness/hopelessness on the MAC scale, and body image and future perspective on the QLQ-C30/Br23. Dunnett's test revealed a significant difference in these scores between baseline and 3 months after the intervention but no difference between baseline and 6 months after the intervention.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested the possibility of a short-term effectiveness of the intervention; however the results were inconclusive because of selected small samples.

Early Stage Breast Cancer: Explaining Level of Psychosocial Adjustment Using Structural Equation Modeling

In many women, the diagnosis of breast cancer leads to psychosocial adjustment problems. Biodemographic variables, coping, and social support are factors that influence psychosocial adjustment. The main objective of the present study was to identify and estimate the associations between psychosocial adjustment and biodemographic variables, coping, and social support by using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Eighty-seven women with newly diagnosed early stage breast cancer completed several questionnaires covering these areas. It appeared that in the period shortly after surgery, coping style, especially illness-specific coping, is of high relevance for psychosocial adjustment. In our study, we could not confirm the positive role of social support found in other studies on psychosocial adjustment. Biodemographic variables had both direct and indirect associations with psychosocial adjustment: older women and women who had had breast-conserving treatment used a more optimistic coping style; the latter group also reported higher body image; and finally, women with a more advanced stage of disease reported a reduction in recreational activities.

Australasian Experience and Trials in Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: The RACS SNAC Trial

PURPOSE

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has been rapidly adopted by surgical oncologists in the management of invasive breast cancer. This study reviews the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) Sentinel Node versus Axillary Clearance (SNAC) trial and reports an interim analysis of the first 150 subjects. Other currently open multi-institutional randomized trials in SLNB are reviewed.

METHODS

The SNAC trial is a multicentre, centrally randomized, phase III clinical trial. Subjects are randomized to SLNB alone (with completion axillary clearance, AC, for sentinel node-positive patients) or AC plus SLNB, with stratification according to age (< 50 years, more than or equal to 50 years), primary tumour palpability (palpable vs impalpable), lymphatic mapping technique (blue dye plus scintigraphy vs blue dye alone) and centre.

RESULTS

The trial was launched in May 2001 in two centres. Randomization continues currently at the rate of approximately 30 subjects per month (total, 1,012 at the time of writing) from 32 participating centres in Australia and New Zealand. Data from the first 150 subjects have been analysed to assess: compliance with randomized treatment allocation; measures of test performance for SLNB (detection, removal, sensitivity, specificity and false-negative rates); measures of arm volume, function, symptoms and quality of life; and sample size estimates.

CONCLUSIONS

The SNAC trial is one of the fastest accruing clinical trials in Australasia. It is on track to determine whether differences in morbidity, with equivalent cancer-related outcomes, exist between SLNB and AC for women with early breast cancer.

Randomized, controlled trial investigating short-term health-related quality of life with doxorubicin and paclitaxel versus doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide as first-line chemotherapy in patients with metastatic breast cancer: European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Breast Cancer Group, Investigational Drug Branch for Breast Cancer and the New Drug Development Group Study

PURPOSE

To compare health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with metastatic breast cancer receiving the combination of doxorubicin and paclitaxel (AT) or doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (AC) as first-line chemotherapy treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eligible patients (n = 275) with anthracycline-naive measurable metastatic breast cancer were randomly assigned to AT (doxorubicin 60 mg/m(2) as an intravenous bolus plus paclitaxel 175 mg/m(2) as a 3-hour infusion) or AC (doxorubicin 60 mg/m(2) plus cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m(2)) every 3 weeks for a maximum of six cycles. Dose escalation of paclitaxel (200 mg/m(2)) and cyclophosphamide (750 mg/m(2)) was planned at cycle 2 to reach equivalent myelosuppression in the two groups. HRQOL was assessed with the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire C30 and the EORTC Breast Module at baseline and the start of cycles 2, 4, and 6, and 3 months after the last cycle.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine percent of the patients (n = 219) completed a baseline measure. However, there were no statistically significant differences in HRQOL between the two treatment groups. In both groups, selected aspects of HRQOL were impaired over time, with increased fatigue, although some clinically significant improvements in emotional functioning were seen, as well as a reduction in pain over time. Overall, global quality of life was maintained in both treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

This information is important when advising women patients of the expected HRQOL consequences of treatment regimens and should help clinicians and their patients make informed treatment decisions.

Patients' and surgeons' perspectives on axillary surgery for breast cancer

AIMS

The objectives of this study were to compare the postoperative morbidity of Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) and to compare the views of surgeons and patients regarding postoperative morbidity.

METHODS

A prospective and comparative study was initiated to evaluate, 1 year after surgery, morbidity and sequelae after SLNB in 231 patients. Group I (n=141) underwent SLNB without ALND, group II (n=90) underwent SLNB followed by ALND when SLN where involved. Morbidity analysis was performed, respectively, by surgeons and patients.

RESULTS

One hundred and eighty-five patients (80.5%) completed the questionnaire including 113 with SLNB alone, and 72 with ALND. One year after surgery, SLNB produced less morbidity than ALND for symptoms and function. There were significantly different assessments between surgeons and patients for pain, arm mobility and sensitiveness.

CONCLUSIONS

One-year postoperative morbidity after SLNB is significantly lower than after ALND but views of surgeons and patients appears to be significantly different. Additional data are required to assess late consequences of axillary surgery.

Predictors of patients' choices for breast-conserving therapy or mastectomy: a prospective study

A study was undertaken to describe the treatment preferences and choices of patients with breast cancer, and to identify predictors of undergoing breast-conserving therapy (BCT) or mastectomy (MT). Consecutive patients with stage I/II breast cancer were eligible. Information about predictor variables, including socio-demographics, quality of life, patients' concerns, decision style, decisional conflict and perceived preference of the surgeon was collected at baseline, before decision making and surgery. Patients received standard information (n=88) or a decision aid (n=92) as a supplement to support decision making. A total of 180 patients participated in the study. In all, 72% decided to have BCT (n=123); 28% chose MT (n=49). Multivariate analysis showed that what patients perceived to be their surgeons' preference and the patients' concerns regarding breast loss and local tumour recurrence were the strongest predictors of treatment preference. Treatment preferences in itself were highly predictive of the treatment decision. The decision aid did not influence treatment choice. The results of this study demonstrate that patients' concerns and their perceptions of the treatment preferences of the physicians are important factors in patients' decision making. Adequate information and communication are essential to base treatment decisions on realistic concerns, and the treatment preferences of patients.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy versus axillary clearance in operable breast cancer: The RACS SNAC trial, a multicenter randomized trial of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS) Section of Breast Surgery, in collaboration with the National Health and Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Center

The aim of the SNAC trial is to determine if sentinel node biopsy (SNB) produces less morbidity and equivalent cancer-related outcomes in comparison with immediate axillary clearance (AC) in women with early breast cancer. The intervention is SNB followed by immediate AC, or SNB followed by AC only if the SNB specimen is positive. This is a multicenter, centrally randomized phase III trial of 1000 women stratified according to age, tumor palpability, lymphatic mapping technique, and center. Accrual rate is 26 women per month; 789 women have been randomized to date. Analysis of the first 150 women indicates good compliance with study treatment and acceptable surgical technique.

The association between nocturnal hot flashes and sleep in breast cancer survivors

This study examined the relationship between objectively measured nocturnal hot flashes and objectively measured sleep in breast cancer survivors with insomnia. Twenty-four women who had completed treatment for non-metastatic breast cancer participated. All were enrolled in a study of cognitive-behavioral treatment for chronic insomnia. Nocturnal hot flashes and sleep were measured by skin conductance and polysomnography, respectively. The 10-minute periods around hot flashes were found to have significantly more wake time, and more stage changes to lighter sleep, than other 10-minute periods during the night. Nights with hot flashes had a significantly higher percentage of wake time, a lower percentage of Stage 2 sleep, and a longer REM latency compared to nights without hot flashes. Overall, hot flashes were found to be associated with less efficient, more disrupted sleep. Nocturnal hot flashes, or their underlying mechanisms, should be considered as potential contributors to sleep disruption in women with breast cancer who report poor sleep.

Psychiatric disorder in women with early stage and advanced breast cancer: a comparative analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess psychosocial morbidity in women with breast cancer and to compare the differential rates between women with early stage and advanced disease.

METHOD

In this report, 303 women with early stage breast cancer, psychiatrically assessed at baseline (as part of a study of cognitive-existential group therapy during adjuvant chemotherapy), are compared with 200 women with advanced breast cancer (similarly assessed in a trial of supportive-expressive group therapy). A structured psychiatric interview plus self-report measures were used to assess psychiatric morbidity, quality of life and cognitive attitude to cancer.

RESULTS

The early stage patients, whose mean age was 46 years, were on average 3 months post-surgery and had an overall prevalence of DSM-IV psychiatric diagnosis of 45%. The metastatic patients, whose mean age was 51 years, were on average 63 months post-primary diagnosis and had an overall prevalence of DSM-IV diagnosis of 42%; the difference between the two rates was not statistically significant. Of women with early stage breast cancer, 36.7% had mood disorders, 9.6% suffering from major depression and 27.1% from minor depression. In the metastatic sample 31% had mood disorders, 6.5% having major depression and 24.5% with minor depression. Anxiety disorders were present in 8.6% of the early stage group and 6% of women with advanced disease. Fatigue, a past history of depression, and cognitive attitudes of helplessness, hopelessness or resignation were significantly associated with depression in both groups. The women from the metastatic sample were significantly less distressed by hair loss but more dissatisfied with body image, and had higher rates of lymphoedema and hot flushes than the early stage women.

CONCLUSIONS

The rates of psychosocial distress are high, and similar, across patients with both early and advanced stage breast cancer, although the illness related causes of distress are different. These data present a challenge to clinical services to provide a comprehensive range of support services to ameliorate this distress.

Baseline health-related quality-of-life data as prognostic factors in a phase III multicentre study of women with metastatic breast cancer

The potential value of baseline health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) and clinical factors in predicting prognosis was examined using data from an international randomised phase III trial which compared doxorubicin and paclitaxel with doxorubicin and cylophosphamide as first line chemotherapy in 275 women with metastatic breast cancer. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30 and the related breast module (QLQ-BR23) were used to assess baseline HRQOL data. The Cox proportional-hazards regression model was used for both univariate and multivariate analyses of survival. In the univariate analyses, performance status (P<0.001) and number of sites involved (P=0.001) were the most important clinical prognostic factors. The HRQOL variables at baseline most strongly associated with longer survival were better appetite, physical and role functioning, as well as less fatigue (P<0.001). The final multivariate model retained performance status (P<0.001) and appetite loss (P=0.005) as the variables best predicting survival. Substantial loss of appetite was the only independent HRQOL factor predicting poor survival and was strongly correlated (/r/>0.5) with fatigue, role and physical functioning. In addition to known clinical factors, appetite loss appears to be a significant prognostic factor for survival in women with metastatic breast cancer. However, the mechanism underlying this association remains to be precisely defined in future studies.

The EORTC Ophthalmic Oncology Quality of Life Questionnaire Module (EORTC QLQ-OPT30). Development and Pre-Testing (Phase I-III)

AIMS

The research objective was to develop a questionnaire module to be used, in addition to the European Organisation into Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30, for measurement of quality of life (QL) among patients with uveal melanoma treated with methods such as transpupillary thermotherapy, plaque radiotherapy, proton beam radiotherapy, local resection, and enucleation. The present paper describes the development through Phases I-III.

METHODS

Relevant QL issues were generated from literature search and from interviews with ophthalmologists, nurses, and patients with uveal melanoma representing three major treatment options: enucleation, plaque brachytherapy, and proton beam therapy.

RESULTS

The provisional module was pretested in 61 patients from Finland, Sweden, and UK. The EORTC QLQ-OPT30 module consists of 26 items for all patients, and four additional items for patients receiving treatments other than enucleation. It measures ocular irritation, vision impairment, headache, worry about recurrent disease, problems with driving, problems with appearance functional problems due to vision impairment, and problems reading.

CONCLUSIONS

Several treatment modalities are available for uveal melanoma. There is limited knowledge of the impact of these treatments on QL in the long and short term. We hope that the OPT30 module together with the EORTC QLQ-C30 core questionnaire can be a useful tool in research.

Measuring quality of life in patients with breast cancer: a systematic review of reliable and valid instruments available in Japan

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the availability and psychometric properties of instruments to measure quality of life (QOL) in clinical research on Japanese patients with breast cancer. The purpose of this systematic review is to find reliable and valid instruments available in Japan, and to summarize their characteristics.

METHODS

Instruments available in Japan were found through a systematic search of the literature. Each instrument identified was evaluated for item development, reliability, validity, interpretability and utility.

RESULTS

Six questionnaires to measure health-related QOL (the QOL-ACD, the EORTC QLQ-C30, the EORTC QLQ-BR23, the FACT-B, the SF-36, the WHO/QOL-26) and five scales to quantify the psychological burden (the STAI, the POMS, the SDS, the HADS, the GHQ), for which reliability and validity have been documented, are available in Japanese. All instruments were developed in foreign countries except for the QOL-ACD. Two of the QOL questionnaires were specific to breast cancer (the EORTC QLQ-BR23, the FACT-B). Though the measurements can be interpreted in some manner, the meaning of change scores over time has been documented for only three instruments (the EORTC QLQ-C30, the FACT-B, and the GHQ).

CONCLUSIONS

The review provides grounds for designing and implementing quantitative research on QOL of breast cancer patients in Japan. Methodological challenges, however, continue, particularly for validating instruments with regard to various study populations of Japanese people and demonstrating the clinical importance of change scores.

Phase III Study of N,N-Diethyl-2-[4-(Phenylmethyl) Phenoxy]Ethanamine (BMS-217380-01) Combined With Doxorubicin Versus Doxorubicin Alone in Metastatic/Recurrent Breast Cancer: National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group Study MA.19

Purpose

N,N-diethyl-2-[4-(phenylmethyl)phenoxy]ethanamine (DPPE; tesmilifene) is a novel agent that augments chemotherapy cytotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. A phase II trial combining DPPE and doxorubicin (DOX) in metastatic breast carcinoma showed increased response over that expected with DOX. We report a phase III trial comparing DOX with DPPE plus DOX in metastatic or recurrent breast cancer.

Patients and Methods

Anthracycline-naive women with measurable metastatic disease were randomly assigned to receive, every 21 days, either DOX 60 mg/m2 intravenously or DOX during the last 20 minutes of an 80-minute infusion of DPPE (5.3 mg/kg), in both cases to cumulative DOX doses of 450 mg/m2. Patients receiving DPPE were aggressively premedicated to ameliorate toxicity. End points included progression-free survival (PFS), response rate (RR), and response duration (RD), quality of life (QOL), toxicity, and overall survival (OS).

Results

A planned interim analysis failed to detect an RR difference more than 5%. The study was closed to additional accrual and all DPPE was discontinued. The final analysis was conducted as planned after 256 progression events (median follow-up, 20.5 months). There was no significant difference in RR, RD, or PFS between arms. DPPE plus DOX was statistically superior to DOX in OS (hazard ratio, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.48 to 0.91; P = .021). DPPE plus DOX was associated with more gastrointestinal and CNS toxicity. No consistent influence on QOL was detected.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated no advantage in RR, RD, or PFS but significantly superior OS for DPPE plus DOX. Additional studies of DPPE are warranted.

Menopausal symptoms in women with breast cancer: Prevalence and treatment preferences

Menopausal symptoms are common and problematic for women receiving adjuvant treatment for breast cancer and management presents a challenge. This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed to investigate the experience of menopausal symptoms, current management and treatment preferences of 113 patients with breast cancer. These women (who were prescribed tamoxifen and were on average 3 years post-diagnosis) were recruited from a breast unit database. They completed the Hot Flush and Night Sweats Questionnaire (HFNSQ), the Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ) and subscales of the EORTC-QLQ-C30 and the BR23, as well as questions about treatments. Forty-four of this sample were also interviewed. The prevalence of hot flushes and night sweats was 80 and 72%, respectively (average 30 per week). Having more problematic hot flushes and night sweats were associated with more anxiety and sleep problems (WHQ), and with poorer emotional and social functioning and worse body image (EORTC-QLQ-C30). The women had used a range of treatments for menopausal symptoms but there was often no evidence for the efficacy for many of these treatments. Strongest preferences were for non-medical treatments, particularly vitamins and herbal remedies and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The evidence for the effectiveness of the former is weak, whereas CBT has been shown to reduce menopausal symptoms, but needs to be evaluated in a population of women who have been treated for breast cancer.

Functional status is well maintained in older women during adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer

BACKGROUND

While adjuvant chemotherapy is known to improve survival in older women with breast cancer, there is little information about its effects on physical function and health-related quality of life.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

'Young' (<65 years of age) and 'older' (> or = 65 years of age) postmenopausal women completed the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire Core Module (QLQ-C30) and BR23 questionnaires and other measures prior to, during and at the completion of anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy, and then 6 and 12 months later.

RESULTS

Physical, role and social function decreased during chemotherapy and emotional function improved (all P <0.01). The decline in physical function was more marked in young (age range 31-64 years; n = 45) than in older women (65-80 years; n = 20) (P <0.05), despite similar baseline values and drug dose intensities. Physical and role function had recovered at 6 months post-chemotherapy. Older patients had consistently better emotional function (P <0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Physical function and other functional domains are impaired in postmenopausal women during adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer, but recover subsequently. Physical function appeared to be better maintained in the older women, who tolerated adjuvant chemotherapy well overall. A knowledge of these effects is important for clinical decision-making and when defining social support needs during adjuvant chemotherapy.

Quality of Life in Women With Breast Cancer During the First Year After Random Assignment to Adjuvant Treatment With Marrow-Supported High-Dose Chemotherapy With Cyclophosphamide, Thiotepa, and Carboplatin or Tailored Therapy With Fluorouracil, Epirubicin, and Cyclophosphamide: Scandinavian Breast Group Study 9401

Purpose: To compare, in high-risk breast cancer patients, the effects on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of two adjuvant treatments. Treatments were compared at eight points during the first year after random assignment to treatment with tailored fluorouracil, epirubicin, and cyclophosphamide (FEC) therapy for nine courses versus induction FEC therapy for three courses followed by high-dose chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, thiotepa, and carboplatin (CTCb) supported by peripheral-blood stem cells.

Patients and Methods: From March 1994 to March 1998, 525 breast cancer patients (estimated relapse risk > 70% within 5 years with standard therapy) were included in the Scandinavian Breast Group 9401 study. HRQoL evaluation, using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ)-C30 and EORTC Breast Cancer Module–23, included 408 of 446 eligible patients in Finland, Norway, and Sweden.

Results: Eighty-four percent to 95% of the patients completed questionnaires at eight points of assessment. Nostatistically significant overall differences were found between the tailored FEC group and the CTCb group for any of the HRQoL variables. Statistically significant differences over time were found for all HRQoL variables. HRQoL in the CTCb group demonstrated a steeper decrease, but a faster recovery than in the tailored FEC group. Emotional functioning improved with increased time from randomization. Higher levels of problems in body image and arm symptoms were reported in the tailored FEC group compared with the CTCb group. Sexual functioning and satisfaction were impaired during the study period.

Conclusion: Both treatments had a negative influence on HRQoL during the treatment period. Despite the aggressive therapies, the patient’s HRQoL returned to levels found at inclusion on most variables.

Impact of medical and demographic factors on long-term quality of life and body image of breast cancer patients

BACKGROUND

The impact of various medical and demographic factors on the quality of life (QoL) of breast cancer patients has been discussed controversially. We investigated the influence of six different factors on long-term QoL and body image of women with primary breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Two-hundred and seventy-four breast cancer patients were administered the QoL questionnaire following a mean interval of 4.2 years after primary diagnosis. All women had been primarily treated for stage I to III breast cancer without evidence of distant metastases. QoL was evaluated by using the QLQ-C30 questionnaire Version 2.0. Supplementary scales included body image, satisfaction with surgical treatment, cosmetic result and fear of recurrence. We analyzed the impact of tumor stage, surgical treatment, adjuvant radiotherapy, adjuvant cytotoxic therapy, age and length of follow-up period on the examined outcome parameters.

RESULTS

At the time of the follow-up examination, patients showed minor impairment of QoL (mean 67.8) and body image (mean 24.8), but more fear of recurrence (mean 60.7). None of the studied factors had a significant impact on overall QoL (P >0.05) according to the QLQ-C30 questionnaire. In contrast, with the exception of the factors 'cytotoxic therapy' and 'radiotherapy' all investigated variables influenced at least one of the additional psychological scales (P <0.05). The primary surgical treatment modality had the strongest impact and affected all four scales. Patients treated with breast conservation reported a more favorable body image, compared to those treated with mastectomy (17.2 versus 37.5, P <0.01), more satisfaction with surgical treatment (4.0 versus 10.7, P = 0.01), rated a better cosmetic result (75.5 versus 57.1, P <0.01), but presented more fear of recurrence (63.9 versus 55.3, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Current QoL questionnaires do not sufficiently cover all relevant aspects of QoL, but might be complemented by breast cancer specific aspects such as body image and fear.

The effectiveness of scalp cooling in preventing alopecia for patients receiving epirubicin and docetaxel

The aim of this study was to establish the effectiveness of scalp cooling in preventing alopecia for patients with breast cancer who received the trial combination chemotherapy of Epirubicin and Docetaxel. Doubt remains about the general effectiveness of scalp cooling in preventing hair loss for patients receiving chemotherapy. There is very little information available about its specific effectiveness with combinations of Taxanes and Anthracycline drugs. Of the 40 patients who received this drug combination, 10 were included in a pilot study whereas the remaining 30 constituted the main study sample. A randomized controlled study was undertaken whereby the intervention group received scalp cooling via gel cool caps and the control group received no specific preventative intervention. Nurses assessed participants' hair loss using a modified version of the WHO scale at seven time points and also recorded hair loss photographically. Two independent experts rated the photographs using the same scale. Patients self-reported in relation to overall hair loss, hair condition, levels of emotional upset, negativity about appearance, hair re-growth and wig use. Significantly greater hair loss was apparent in the control group during most of the treatment period. However, the level of protection afforded by the cool caps was relatively poor with this chemotherapy combination. The marginal benefits of scalp cooling in this context must be clearly explained to patients.

Quality of life of breast cancer patients in Taiwan: Validation of the Taiwan Chinese version of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-BR23

The objective of this study was to test the reliability and validity of the Taiwan Chinese version of the EORTC QLQ-C30 (version 3) and EORTC QLQ-BR23. The authors followed the guidelines of translation and pilot testing of the questionnaires. The questionnaires were given to 35 breast cancer patients under active treatment and 54 under follow-up at the National Taiwan University Hospital from November 2000 to October 2001. A retest was conducted one to two weeks after the first interview/form completion for the follow-up group. The intraclass correlation coefficients of the two questionnaires were moderate to high in the follow-up group. The Cronbach's alpha coefficients of most scales of the two questionnaires were > or = 0.70 except that of physical functioning (0.68), cognitive functioning (0.53), and arm symptoms (0.59). Correlations of scales measuring similar dimensions of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and the SF-36 were moderate. Patients in the active treatment group had more serious QOL problems due to disease and treatment. Results of this study showed that the Taiwan Chinese version of the two questionnaires had good test/retest reliability, high internal consistency in most scales, and could show the expected differences between patients in active chemotherapy and follow-up group.