Psychosocial/survivorship issues in breast cancer: are we doing better?

Quantifying the Influence of Psychosocial Characteristics, Supportive Care Needs and Quality of Life on Breast Cancer Survival

OBJECTIVE

To identify the contribution of psychosocial characteristics, supportive care needs, or quality of life on breast cancer survival outcomes.

METHODS

This study used data from a population-based longitudinal study involving women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer (n = 3326, response rate = 71%) in Queensland, Australia, 2010-2013, and followed up to 2020. Flexible parametric survival models were used to identify which factors were associated with survival outcomes. Model fit was assessed using D andR D 2 ${R}_{D}^{2}$ statistics.

RESULTS

Unmet physical and daily living needs, social support, age, stage at diagnosis, tumour grade, clinical subtype and mode of detection explained 39% of survival variability (R D 2 ${R}_{D}^{2}$ 0.39; 95% CI 0.33-0.44), with a Harrell's C statistic of 0.84 (95% CI 0.81-0.86). Unmet physical and daily living needs and social support, which fall under the categories of supportive care needs and psychosocial characteristics respectively, were identified as key factors that predict breast cancer survival, explaining 3% of survival variability. When compared to women who had less unmet physical needs and adequate social support (5-year survival: 96.6%, 95% CI 92%-99%), those who had more unmet physical needs and limited social support had poorer breast cancer-specific survival (5-year survival: 86.8%, 95% CI 72%-95%).

CONCLUSION

The study found that unmet physical and daily living needs and social support play a marginal but significant role in influencing breast cancer outcomes. The findings enhance the current literature regarding the impact of psychosocial characteristics and supportive care needs on breast cancer survival and suggest that integrating psychosocial support and interventions alongside medical treatment may further improve the survival outcomes for women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Physical Health Decline After Chemotherapy or Endocrine Therapy in Breast Cancer Survivors

Importance

Women with a history of breast cancer (BC) experience greater physical health decline compared with age-matched women without cancer. However, whether this decline differs in patients who received chemotherapy and endocrine therapy is not well understood.

Objective

To investigate physical health decline in BC survivors who received chemotherapy or endocrine therapy compared with age-matched women without cancer.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study was conducted as part of the Cancer Prevention Study-3, a prospective US cohort study that enrolled participants in 35 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico between 2006 and 2013. Follow-up for this analysis was through April 1, 2020. Statistical analyses were conducted between May 2023 and December 2024. Female participants diagnosed with nonmetastatic BC who returned a survey at least 90 days after their diagnosis were matched on age and year of survey return with up to 5 women without cancer.

Exposure

Cancer status and treatment information.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes of interest were measures of physical health, assessed using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Global Health Scale instrument. Linear regression was used to estimate associations (β) and 95% CIs of treatment with physical health.

Results

This analysis included 2566 individuals diagnosed with BC and 12 826 age-matched women without cancer. Median (IQR) age at diagnosis was 56.3 (49.9-61.9) years. Of women with BC, 1223 (47.7%) received endocrine therapy, 276 (10.8%) received chemotherapy, and 634 (24.7%) received both. Compared with women without cancer, there was a greater physical health decline within 2 years of diagnosis for BC survivors receiving endocrine therapy (β = -1.12; 95% CI, -1.64 to -0.60), chemotherapy (β = -3.13; 95% CI, -4.19 to -2.07), or both (β = -3.26; 95% CI, -3.97 to -2.55). The decline among endocrine therapy users was restricted to women receiving aromatase inhibitors. More than 2 years after diagnosis, the decline was only observed in women who received chemotherapy.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of 15 392 BC survivors and age-matched women without cancer, BC survivors who received chemotherapy had a long-lasting physical health decline, unlike survivors who received endocrine therapy without chemotherapy. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and to better understand the health consequences of these treatments.

Advancements in breast cancer management: a comprehensive review of ribociclib combined with endocrine therapy

Background

In this review, the complicated landscape of breast cancer management is explored with a focus on the promising synergies between ribociclib and endocrine therapy. Ribociclib mainly acts as a cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitor, which disrupts cell cycle progression necessary for tumor growth. This, in combination with endocrine therapy, aims to produce hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, which is a very relevant subtype with challenging therapeutics.

Methods

A comprehensive review was conducted using multiple databases, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, covering the period from January 1990 to May 2024.

Results

Pharmacokinetic studies underscore the efficacy and tolerability of ribociclib, thus providing vital information for dose adjustments, particularly among patients with renal and hepatic impairments. Ribociclib's value in extending progression-free survival and improving overall survival has been shown by clinical trials such as the MONALEESA series. Quality of life considerations and patient-reported outcomes from these trials indicate that ribociclib has a broader effect on the well-being of the patients. However, despite the success experienced by this drug in clinical practice, it still has some side effects, including hematologic toxicity, hepatotoxicity, and thromboembolism associated with it. Ribociclib resistance mechanisms are multifaceted mixtures comprising genetic variations or mutations, compensatory signaling pathways, and epigenomic changes. While overcoming resistance remains challenging, ongoing research seeks to reconcile.

Conclusion

Ribociclib combined with endocrine therapy represents a significant advancement in breast cancer treatment, albeit with challenges that necessitate ongoing research and holistic patient care approaches.

Sociocultural and Clinical Determinants of Sexual Dysfunction in Perimenopausal Women with and Without Breast Cancer

Breast cancer survivorship is a recognized risk factor for sexual dysfunction, with various clinical, sociocultural, and psychological factors potentially interacting differently across populations. This study compared sexual dysfunction, anxiety, and depression between females with breast cancer and those without, aiming to identify associated factors. A total of 362 females participated, including 227 with sexual dysfunction and 135 controls. Among them, 195 are breast cancer survivors, while 167 have no personal history of cancer. Key variables were analyzed using Student's t-test for quantitative data and Fisher's exact test for categorical data, while logistic regression models were used to assess the association between sexual dysfunction and various factors. Multivariate analysis revealed that, in sexually active females, breast cancer survivorship increased the odds of sexual dysfunction 2.7-fold (95% CI: 1.17-6.49; p = 0.020). Anxiety was significantly associated with sexual dysfunction, regardless of cancer status (AdOR 6.00; 95% CI: 2.50-14.43; p < 0.001). The interaction between cancer survival and anxiety further increased the odds of sexual dysfunction by more than 11-fold (AdOR 11.55; 95% CI: 3.81-35.04; p < 0.001). Additionally, obesity was found to be a protective factor among cancer survivors (AdOR 0.149; 95% CI: 0.027-0.819; p = 0.029). In conclusion, breast cancer has a significant impact on sexual function, with psychological factors like anxiety playing a crucial role. Addressing these issues requires a holistic, patient-centered approach that considers the complex interplay of physical, emotional, and sociocultural factors.

Evaluating the effect of upper-body morbidity on quality of life following primary breast cancer treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Improvements in breast cancer management continue to increase survival and life expectancy after treatment. Yet the adverse effects of treatment may persist long term, threatening physical, psychological, and social wellbeing, leading to impaired quality of life (QOL). Upper-body morbidity (UBM) such as pain, lymphoedema, restricted shoulder range of motion (ROM), and impaired function are widely reported after breast cancer treatment, but evidence demonstrating its impact on QOL is inconsistent. Therefore, the aim of the study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the effect of UBM on QOL following primary breast cancer treatment.

METHODS

The study was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020203445). CINAHL, Embase, Emcare, PsycInfo, PubMed/Medline, and SPORTDiscus databases were searched for studies reporting QOL in individuals with and without UBM following primary breast cancer treatment. Primary analysis determined the standardised mean difference (SMD) in physical, psychological, and social wellbeing scores between UBM + /UBM - groups. Secondary analyses identified differences in QOL scores between groups, according to questionnaire.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight studies were included, with 39 conducive to meta-analysis. Types of UBM included pain, lymphoedema, restricted shoulder ROM, impaired upper-body function, and upper-body symptoms. UBM + groups reported poorer physical (SMD =  - 0.99; 95%CI =  - 1.26, - 0.71; p < 0.00001), psychological (SMD =  - 0.43; 95%CI =  - 0.60, - 0.27; p < 0.00001), and social wellbeing (SMD =  - 0.62; 95%CI =  - 0.83, - 0.40; p < 0.00001) than UBM - groups. Secondary analyses according to questionnaire showed that UBM + groups rated their QOL poorer or at equal to, UBM - groups across all domains.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings demonstrate the significant, negative impact of UBM on QOL, pervading physical, psychological, and social domains.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Efforts to assess and minimise the multidimensional impact of UBM are warranted to mitigate impaired QOL after breast cancer.

Reproductive Concerns Among Young Adult Women With Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

Systemic cancer treatments pose threats to fertility, leading to concerns regarding fertility and parenthood in young adult women with breast cancer (YAWBC). This systematic review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on reproductive concerns (RCs) among YAWBC and identify areas where further research in needed.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted. Nine English and Chinese databases were searched for studies from inception to June 2023. A meta-analysis was employed to pool RC levels measured using the Reproductive Concerns After Cancer scale (RCAC scale; possible total scores: 18-90). Narrative synthesis was conducted in cases where a meta-analysis could not be performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-four cross-sectional studies across seven countries were included in this review. The prevalence of RCs among YAWBC ranged from 21.75% to 80%. The pooled mean total score on the overall RCAC scale was 55.84 (95% confidence interval: 53.26-58.43). "Personal health," "child's health," and "fertility potential" were the top three types of RCs among YAWBC. Sociodemographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors were found to be associated with RCs among YAWBC. Additionally, significant correlations among RCs, nonadherence to treatment, depression, and quality of life were also identified among YAWBC.

CONCLUSION

RCs are a common issue among YAWBC, and age, parenthood status, fertility desire, and chemotherapy treatment are important factors associated with RCs among these women. Further research is needed to clarify RC-related factors to provide evidence aimed at tailoring interventions to mitigate RCs among YWBC.

Psychosocial experiences of breast cancer survivors: a meta-review

PURPOSE

Advances in breast cancer care have led to a high rate of survivorship. This meta-review (systematic review of reviews) assesses and synthesises the voluminous qualitative survivorship evidence-base, providing a comprehensive overview of the main themes regarding breast cancer survivorship experiences, and areas requiring further investigation.

METHODS

Sixteen breast cancer reviews identified by a previous mixed cancer survivorship meta-review were included, with additional reviews published between 1998 and 2020, and primary papers published after the last comprehensive systematic review between 2018 and 2020, identified via database searches (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO). Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and the CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative) checklist for primary studies. A meta-ethnographic approach was used to synthesise data.

RESULTS

Of 1673 review titles retrieved, 9 additional reviews were eligible (25 reviews included in total). Additionally, 76 individual papers were eligible from 2273 unique papers. Reviews and studies commonly focused on specific survivorship groups (including those from ethnic minorities, younger/older, or with metastatic/advanced disease), and topics (including return to work). Eight themes emerged: (1) Ongoing impact and search for normalcy, (2) Uncertainty, (3) Identity: Loss and change, (4) Isolation and being misunderstood, (5) Posttraumatic growth, (6) Return to work, (7) Quality of care, and (8) Support needs and coping strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

Breast cancer survivors continue to face challenges and require interventions to address these.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Breast cancer survivors may need to prepare for ongoing psychosocial challenges in survivorship and proactively seek support to overcome these.

Targeting emotional regulation using an Internet-delivered psychological intervention for cancer survivors: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

This trial assessed the efficacy of an emotion-focused, modular, Internet-delivered adaptation of the Unified Protocol (UP) in improving cancer survivors' emotion regulation strategies.

DESIGN

A two-arm randomized controlled trial (1:1) was used to compare the efficacy of two Internet-based interventions: UP-adapted CanCope Mind (CM) and lifestyle-focused active control CanCope Lifestyle (CL).

METHODS

N = 224 cancer survivors randomized to CM or CL were assessed at baseline, between-modules, at post-intervention and 3-month follow-up on emotion regulation outcomes targeted by each CM module (Module 1: beliefs about emotions; Module 2: mindfulness; Module 3: cognitive reappraisal skills, catastrophizing, refocus on planning; Module 4: experiential avoidance). Primary analyses were intention-to-treat linear regressions using Fisher randomization tests for p-values and intervals were used to compare groups with standardized mean difference (SMD) effect sizes.

RESULTS

CanCope Mind participants (n = 61 completers) experienced moderate-to-large improvements (SMDs from .44-.88) across all outcomes at post-intervention. CM's effects were larger than CL's (n = 75 completers) immediately post-intervention and at 3-month follow-up for beliefs about emotions, mindfulness, cognitive reappraisals and experiential avoidance (all p's < .05). CM experienced greater improvements in catastrophizing immediately post-intervention, with a trending effect at follow-up. However, we could not reject the null hypothesis of identical between-group effects for refocusing on planning both immediately post-intervention and at follow-up. Exploratory analyses revealed inconsistent between-module effects.

CONCLUSIONS

In its entirety, CM is a promising intervention for improving and maintaining cancer survivors' adaptive emotion regulation, especially for mindfulness and experiential avoidance. This may have important clinical implications for promoting cancer survivors' emotional functioning and general well-being.

A Theoretically Informed Critical Review of Research Applying the Concept of Liminality to Understand Experiences with Cancer: Implications for a New Oncological Agenda in Health Psychology

Liminality was described more than 20 years ago as a major category explaining how cancer is experienced. Since then, it has been widely used in the field of oncology research, particularly by those using qualitative methods to study patient experience. This body of work has great potential to illuminate the subjective dimensions of life and death with cancer. However, the review also reveals a tendency for sporadic and opportunistic applications of the concept of liminality. Rather than being developed in a systematic way, liminality theory is being recurrently 're-discovered' in relatively isolated studies, mostly within the realm of qualitative studies of 'patient experience'. This limits the capacity of this approach to influence oncological theory and practice. In providing a theoretically informed critical review of liminality literature in the field of oncology, this paper proposes ways of systematizing liminality research in line with a processual ontology. In so doing, it argues for a closer engagement with the source theory and data, and with more recent liminality theory, and it sketches the broad epistemological consequences and applications.

Exploring the independent association of employment status to cancer survivors' health-related quality of life

BACKGROUND

Having a job has been associated with better Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) in cancer survivors. However, the sociodemographic and disease-related profiles characterizing the survivors being employed and those having better HRQOL largely overlap. The present study aims to discern the degree to which employment status is independently associated with cancer survivors' HRQOL or if it mainly reflects the impact of other sociodemographic and cancer-related variables.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study on a heterogeneous sample of 772 working-age survivors of adult-onset cancer. An instrument specifically designed to assess HRQOL in cancer survivors and Multivariate Variance Analysis (MANOVA) were used.

RESULTS

Survival phase, cancer type, and employment status showed the main effects on cancer survivors' HRQOL. In particular, being employed (vs unemployed) had the greatest positive association with HRQOL, affecting ten of the twelve HRQOL domains considered. Also, interaction effects highlighted the role of age (younger) and marital status (single) as risk factors for a greater negative impact of variables affecting the survivor's HRQOL.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of a multivariate methodology sheds new light on two relevant issues for the cancer survivor's HRQOL: (i) the existence of differences between diagnostic groups that are not attributed to other variables such as sex, and (ii) the important and independent role that employment status plays. Comprehensive cancer survivorship care should focus more on high-risk groups and include having a job as an essential aspect to consider and prompt. The fact that the employment status is susceptible to change represents a valuable opportunity to care for the wellbeing of this population.

The role of digital health in supporting cancer patients' mental health and psychological well-being for a better quality of life: A systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

This work aims to evaluate the role of digital health in supporting the mental and psychological well-being of patients with cancer and identify the associated challenges of use and implementation.

METHODS

Eligibility criteria: We included peer-reviewed studies (quantitative/qualitative) published between January 2011 and July 2022, that are written in English using technology to support cancer patients' mental health. We excluded opinion papers, editorials, and commentaries.

INFORMATION SOURCES

The systematic review was conducted across ProQuest CENTRAL, Scopus, PubMed, PsycInfo, Web Of Science, and IEEE Xplore. The study selection followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews, meta-Analysis Reviews, and meta-Analysis guidelines (PRISMA). Risk of bias: All screening steps followed a consensus between the authors to minimize bias or discrepancy. Synthesis of the results: Data were extracted following the Six-factor Model of Psychological Well-being (SMPW). The technology challenges are summarized following the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety model (SEIPS), focusing on design, impact on processes, and outcomes.

RESULTS

We included 25 studies satisfying our inclusion criteria. The studies had little interest in minorities and sociodemographic factors' assessment within their results. The review showed that mental health and psychological well-being tools cover many applications. In addition to allowing personal growth, digital health can help cancer patients gain more autonomy and self-acceptance. Moreover, these health technologies can aid in mastering the environment, shaping social relationships, and pursuing life goals. Many challenges were identified related to the environment, organization, users, and tasks.

DISCUSSION

Digital health applications for cancer care cover a broad spectrum of mental health interventions. Challenges warrant analyzing the needs and usability. Lessons learned during COVID-19 may help refine technology interventions for mental health in cancer care. More interest in minorities is needed when designing technologies for patients to ensure more access to equitable care.

Psychological measures of stress and biomarkers of inflammation, aging, and endothelial dysfunction in breast cancer survivors on aromatase inhibitors

The use of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular events and lower endothelial function in breast cancer survivors. Psychosocial stress is associated with higher levels of inflammatory and aging markers, and lower endothelial function in otherwise healthy subjects. These associations among breast cancer survivors on AIs are not well defined. A cross-sectional study of 30 breast cancer survivors on AIs was performed to assess the associations between self-reported scores of psychosocial measures of depression, anxiety, and stress assessed by validated questionnaires with markers of inflammation (CRP; IL-6; IL-18), aging (p16^INK4a), and endothelial function (ICAM-1, EndoPAT ratio). Significant positive correlations were observed between psychosocial measures and inflammatory markers including CRP, IL-6, and ICAM-1. However, no psychosocial scores were related to endothelial function or gene expression of the aging biomarker p16INK4a. Overall, survivors had endothelial dysfunction with reduced EndoPAT ratios. Psychosocial stress is associated with greater inflammation in breast cancer survivors on AIs, corroborating previous studies in cancer-free populations. The lack of association between psychosocial stress and either endothelial function or aging biomarkers could be due to the already low endothelial function and accelerated aging in our cohort of breast cancer survivors on AIs, though our small sample size limits conclusions. Further work in a larger and more diverse cohort of patients is needed to further understand the relationships among inflammation, aging and endothelial function in breast cancer survivors.

Improving emotion regulation in breast cancer patients in the early survivorship period: Efficacy of a brief ecologically boosted group intervention

PURPOSE

This study reports the short- and mid-term benefits of an eight-session emotion and self-regulation group intervention ecologically boosted through daily app-based prompts. The intervention was designed for breast cancer patients in the early survivorship period meeting criteria for clinical levels of psychological symptoms.

METHODS

Patients were randomly assigned to the immediate intervention arm (n = 61; intervention received immediately) or to the delayed intervention arm (n = 59; intervention received 5 months later). Psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depressive symptoms, emotional distress, fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), worry, and intrusive thoughts were assessed through questionnaires. Emotion regulation was assessed in a dynamic emotion regulation task and in everyday life. Assessments were completed at baseline (T1), 5 months (T2) and 10 months (T3) later.

RESULTS

Treated patients reported lower levels of worry and intrusive thoughts. They improved their ability to down-regulate the intensity of their negative emotions when exposed to cancer-related triggers in the dynamic emotion regulation task. They reported fewer and less intense negative emotions and more positive emotions in their everyday life. Benefits were maintained 5 months later, except for positive emotions in everyday life.

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed that focusing on emotion regulation is a relevant approach in the treatment of psychological symptoms for breast cancer patients in the early survivorship period meeting criteria for clinical levels of psychological symptoms. The intervention led to changes in patients' dynamic and everyday life emotion regulation. Consolidation sessions may be needed to sustain benefits in positive emotions and to increase the effect sizes.

Impact of hormone therapy side effects on health-related quality of life, distress, and well-being of breast cancer survivors

To explore the modulatory role of Adjuvant Hormone Therapy (AHT) on health-related quality of life (QoL), subjective well-being and distress prevalence in Breast Cancer (BC) survivors, considering the survival phase. Cross-sectional study with control group. 616 BC survivors participated. Examination of interaction effect between AHT and time since end of primary treatment showed that many of the positive changes observed through the survival phases were experienced exclusively by survivors without AHT. When AHT was not prescribed, longer time elapsed was associated with a decrease in distress prevalence and an improvement in subjective well-being and QoL. It seems there is a turning point around the fifth year after finalization of primary treatment, from which the survivors without AHT significantly improve in several areas and those with AHT do so to a lesser extent. It is expected that the improvement in QoL throughout the different survival phases will have a significant impact on the adherence and maintenance of AHT and, consequently, the likelihood of survival. Thus, AHT side-effects should be routinely assessed by health care providers to gain accurate knowledge that allows improving the QoL of BC survivors.

Psychological distress and quality of life in Chinese early-stage breast cancer patients throughout chemotherapy

Background

Breast cancer survivors with psychological problems have higher mortality than those without. Therefore, it is important to monitor and manage their psychological status. This study mainly aimed to dynamically estimate the prevalence of anxiety and depression and to clarify the factors associated with anxiety and depression of patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. The secondary objective was to investigate the relationship between depression and anxiety and quality of life (QOL) in Chinese early-stage breast cancer patients.

Methods

In a prospective observational single-center cohort study with early-stage breast cancer patients (n = 290), depression and anxiety severity, QOL, and social support were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast Cancer (FACT-B) scale, and the Chinese version of the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS), respectively. Canonical correlations were applied to identify correlates between anxiety and depression and demographic and clinical variables. One-way repeated measure analysis of covariance (RMANCOVA) was used to analyze dynamic changes in anxiety, depression, and QOL. Relationships between anxiety and depression and QOL were analyzed using two-way RMANCOVA.

Results

The overall anxiety and depression prevalence rates were 35.2% and 44.1%, respectively. Age (P = 0.042), surgical method (P = 0.009), social support (P = 0.001), and breast cancer family history (P = 0.045) were significantly associated with depression. The number of children (P = 0.048) was significantly associated with anxiety. FACT-B scores differed between anxiety and depression and nonanxiety and depression groups, and patients with higher HADS depression and anxiety scores had lower FACT-B scores during chemotherapy (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

We observed dynamic changes in anxiety and depression and QOL and associated factors of anxiety and depression. These findings can provide guidance for psychological monitoring and support for breast cancer patients during the postoperative chemotherapy period.

Assessing an Internet-Delivered, Emotion-Focused Intervention Compared With a Healthy Lifestyle Active Control Intervention in Improving Mental Health in Cancer Survivors: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Cancer survivors are vulnerable to experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression and may benefit from accessible interventions focused on improving emotion regulation. CanCope Mind (CM) was developed as an internet-delivered intervention adapted from the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders to improve emotion regulation and support the mental health of cancer survivors.

OBJECTIVE

This protocol aims to provide an outline of the CanCope Study, a trial comparing the efficacy of a Unified Protocol-adapted internet-delivered intervention (CM) designed for cancer survivors compared with an active control condition-an internet-delivered healthy lifestyle intervention, CanCope Lifestyle (CL). The primary aim is to assess and compare the efficacy of both interventions in improving emotion regulation, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and quality of life. The secondary aims involve assessing the mechanisms of the CM intervention.

METHODS

This trial is a 2-arm randomized controlled trial that allocates cancer survivors to either CM or CL. Both interventions comprise 4 web-based modules and are expected to take participants at least 8 weeks to complete. Participants' mental and physical health will be assessed via self-reported surveys at baseline (T0), between each module (T1, T2, and T3), immediately after the intervention (T4), and at 3-month follow-up (T5). The study aims to recruit 110 participants who have completed T4.

RESULTS

The CanCope study began recruitment in September 2020. A total of 224 participants have been randomized to the CM (n=110, 49.1%) and CL (n=114, 50.9%) groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This is one of the first trials to develop and investigate the efficacy of a web-based intervention for cancer survivors that specifically targets emotion regulation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australian Clinical Trials ACTRN12620000943943; https://tinyurl.com/b3z9cjsp.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/36658.

Varying severities of symptoms underline the relevance of personalized follow-up care in breast cancer survivors: latent class cluster analyses in a cross-sectional cohort

PURPOSE

Insights into the severity of co-existing symptoms can help in identifying breast cancer survivors in need of symptom management. We aimed to identify subgroups of breast cancer survivors based on patterns of symptom severity, and characteristics associated with these subgroups.

METHODS

We selected surgically treated stage I-III breast cancer survivors 1-5 years post-diagnosis from the Netherlands Cancer Registry (N = 876). We assessed experienced severity of fatigue, nausea, pain, dyspnea, insomnia, appetite, constipation, diarrhea, and emotional and cognitive symptoms through the EORTC-QLQ-C30 Quality of Life Questionnaire on a scale of 0-100. We determined subgroups of survivors using latent class cluster analyses (LCA) based on severity of co-existing symptoms and compared their mean severity to the age-matched female reference population to interpret clinical relevance. We assessed subgroup characteristics by multinomial logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

From 404 respondents (46%), three subgroups of survivors with distinct symptom severity were identified: low severity (n = 116, 28.7%), intermediate severity (n = 224, 55.4%), and high severity (n = 59, 14.6%). The low subgroup reported lower symptom severity than the general population; the intermediate subgroup reported a similar symptom severity, although scores for fatigue, insomnia, and cognitive symptoms were worse (small-medium clinical relevance). The high subgroup had worse symptom severity (medium-large clinical relevance). Compared to the intermediate subgroup, one (RRR: 2.75; CI: 1.22-6.19; p = 0.015) or more (RRR: 9.19; CI: 3.70-22.8; p =  < 0.001) comorbidities were significantly associated with the high subgroup. We found no associated treatment characteristics.

CONCLUSION

We identified distinct subgroups of breast cancer survivors based on symptom severity, underlining the relevance of further exploring personalized follow-up strategies.

Supportive care needs and psychosocial outcomes of rural versus urban women with breast cancer

OBJECTIVE

To identify whether supportive care needs vary according to remoteness and area-level socio-economic status (SES) and to identify the combinations of socio-demographic, area-level and health factors that are associated with poorer quality of life, psychological distress and severity of unmet supportive care needs METHODS: Cross sectional data was collected from women with a breast cancer diagnosis (n=2,635) in Queensland, Australia, through a telephone survey including socio-demographic, health, psychosocial and supportive care needs measures. Hierarchical regression and cluster analyses were applied to assess the predictors of unmet need and psychosocial outcomes and to identify socio-demographic and health status profiles of women, comparing their level of unmet needs and psychosocial outcomes.

RESULTS

Women living in outer regional areas reported the highest severity of unmet need in the patient care domain. Greater unmet need for health systems and information and patient care was also evident for those in moderately and most disadvantaged areas. Three clusters were identified reflecting (1) older women with poorer health and lower education (19%); (2) younger educated women with better health and private insurance (61%); and (3) physically active women with localised cancer who had completed treatment (20%). Poorer outcomes were evident in the first two of these clusters.

CONCLUSIONS

This better understanding of the combinations of characteristics associated with poorer psychosocial outcomes and higher unmet need can be used to identify women with higher supportive care needs early and to target interventions. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Patient reported outcomes in oncology: changing perspectives-a systematic review

In public health context, oncology is associated with severe negative impact on patients and on their relatives’ quality of life. Over the last decades, survival has remained at 50% worldwide for some tumor locations. Patient reported outcomes (PROs) assessment and, the corresponding use in clinical practice, help establishing patient individualized profiling involving caregivers. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine critical success factors for PROs assessment in daily clinical oncology practice. Additionally, we investigated how PROs collection can change oncology perspectives for patients and caregivers. According to PRISMA guidelines, 83 studies were included in this systematic review, whether related with implementation in daily clinical practice or associated with its use in oncology. PROs assessment gathers multi-professional teams, biomedical and clinical expertise, patients, families and caregivers. Institutional involvement, first line for caregiver’s adherence, team continuous formation, encompassing training and support, design of clear workflows, continuous monitoring, and data analysis are crucial for implementation. PROs measures are decisive in oncology. Several items were improved, including caregiver–patient–physician communication, patient risk groups identification, unmet problems and needs detection, disease course and treatment tracking, prognostic markers, cost-effectiveness measurement and comfort/support provision for both patients and caregivers. Routine assessment and implementation of PROs in clinical practice are a major challenge and a paradigm transformation for future.

Factors Associated with Late Local Radiation Toxicity after Post-Operative Breast Irradiation

Purpose. To assess determinants associated with late local radiation toxicity in patients treated for breast cancer. Methods. A systematic review was performed. All studies reporting ≥2 variables associated with late local radiation toxicity after treatment with postoperative whole breast irradiation were included. Cohort studies, randomized controlled trials, and cross-sectional studies were eligible designs. Study characteristics and definitions of determinants and outcome measures were extracted. If possible, the measure of association was extracted. Results. Twenty-one studies were included in this review. Six out of seven studies focused on the association between radiotherapy (boost) dose or irradiated breast volume and late radiation toxicity found significant results. Tumor bed boost was associated with late radiation toxicity, fibrosis, and/or edema in six out of twelve studies. Lower age was associated with late breast toxicity in one study, while in another study, higher age was significantly associated with breast fibrosis. Also, no association between age and late radiation toxicity was found in eight out of twelve studies. Similar inconsistent results were found in the association between late radiation toxicity and other patient-related factors (i.e., breast size, diabetes mellitus) and surgical and systemic treatment-related factors (i.e., complications after surgery, chemotherapy, and time between surgery and radiotherapy). Conclusion. In modern 3D radiotherapy, radiotherapy (boost) dose and volume are—like in 2D radiotherapy—associated with late local radiation toxicity, such as breast fibrosis and edema. Treatment de-escalation, for example, partial breast irradiation in selected patients might be important to decrease late local toxicity without compromising locoregional control and survival.

Risk of Major Depressive Disorder in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Patients in Japan

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients with cancer in Japan and identify risk factors for MDD among these patients.

METHODS

This was a matched cohort study using a large claims database in Japan. Included patients were aged 15-39 years, newly diagnosed with cancer during 2012-2017 and assessable for a follow-up period of 12 months. Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for MDD in the AYA patients with cancer versus age-, sex- and working status-matched cancer-free controls. A subgroups analysis of the AYA patients with cancer was performed to explore MDD risk factors.

RESULTS

A total of 3,559 AYA patients with cancer and 35,590 matched controls were included in the analysis. AYA patients with cancer had a 3-fold higher risk for MDD compared with cancer-free controls (HR, 3.12; 95% CI, 2.64-3.70). Among cancer categories with >100 patients, patients with multiple cancer categories, including those with metastatic cancer (HR, 6.73, 95% CI, 3.65-12.40) and leukemia (HR, 6.30; 95% CI, 3.75-10.58), had the greatest MDD risk versus matched controls. Patients who received inpatient chemotherapy as initial treatment had a higher risk for MDD than patients without chemotherapy (HR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.30-0.62).

CONCLUSIONS

AYA patients in Japan with cancer are at high risk for MDD. Particularly, those with multiple cancer categories, leukemia, and those who receive aggressive anticancer treatments should be monitored closely for symptoms of MDD. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Avaliação de Prejuízo Cognitivo em Sobreviventes de Câncer de Mama: Estudo Transversal

Resumo Estudo prospectivo e transversal, para determinar a prevalência de prejuízo cognitivo decorrente da quimioterapia e explorar fatores preditores e mediadores em sobreviventes de câncer de mama. Utilizou-se o Termômetro de Distress, Escala de Ansiedade e Depressão, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-General e Cognitive Function. As sobreviventes (N = 62) reportaram uma alta prevalência de distress (46,8%) e de ansiedade (24,2%), com baixos escores nas subescalas déficit cognitivo e habilidades cognitivas percebidos. O funcionamento cognitivo esteve associado à idade (β = 1,42; p = 0,002), atuação profissional (β = -23,12; p = 0,004), depressão (β = -5,43; p = 0,001) e qualidade de vida (β = 1,24; p = 0,001). Prejuízo cognitivo deve ser considerado no serviço de Psico-Oncologia.

Outcomes analysis of microsurgical physiologic lymphatic procedures for the upper extremity from the United States National Surgical Quality Improvement Program

INTRODUCTION

Physiologic microsurgical procedures to treat lymphedema include vascularized lymph node transfer (VLNT) and lymphovenous bypass (LVB). The purpose of this study was to assess 30-day outcomes of VLNT and LVB using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database.

METHODS

NSQIP was queried (2012-2018) for lymphatic procedures for upper extremity lymphedema after mastectomy. Prophylactic lymphatic procedures and those for lower extremity lymphedema were excluded. Outcomes were assessed for three groups: LVB, VLNT, and patients who had procedures simultaneously (VLNA+LVB). Primary outcomes measured were operative time, 30-day morbidities, and hospital length of stay.

RESULTS

The study included 199 patients who had LVB (n = 43), VLNT (n = 145), or VLNT+LVB (n = 11). There was no difference in co-morbidities between the groups (p = 0.26). 30-day complication rates including unplanned reoperation (6.9% VLNT vs. 2.3% LVB) and readmission (0.69% VLNT vs. none in LVB) were not statistically significant (p = 0.54). Surgical site infection, wound complications, deep vein thromboembolism, and cardiac arrest was also similar among the three groups. Postoperative length of stay for VLNT (2.5 days± 2.3), LVB (1.9 days± 1.9), and VLNT+LVB (2.8 days± 0.3) did not differ significantly (p = 0.20). Operative time for LVB (305.4 min ± 186.7), VLNT (254 min ± 164.4), and VLNT+LVB (295.3 min ± 43.2) was not significantly different (p = 0.21).

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis of the NSQIP data revealed that VLNT and LVB are procedures with no significant difference in perioperative morbidity. Our results support that choice of VLNT versus LVB can be justifiably made per the surgeon's preference and experience as the operations have similar complication rates.

The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 on the quality of life and treatment disruption of patients with breast cancer in a multiethnic cohort

BACKGROUND

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to spread, it remains unclear how vulnerable populations with preexisting health conditions like cancer have been affected.

METHODS

Between July and September of 2020, the authors conducted a cross-sectional study that surveyed 2661 patients with breast cancer who were registered in the Chicago Multiethnic Epidemiologic Breast Cancer Cohort and received 1300 responses (71.5% White patients and 22.4% Black patients). The survey measured the psychosocial well-being of participants before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined whether they experienced any type of financial challenges or treatment disruption.

RESULTS

The results indicated that feelings of isolation increased significantly during the pandemic. Meanwhile, the overall median isolation/stress score was 1.2 on a scale from 0 (never) to 4 (always), which was not significantly different between White patients and Black patients. One-third of patients experienced some type of financial challenge during this time. Medicaid recipients, of whom almost 80% were Black, were more likely to experience financial challenges. In addition, approximately one-fourth of patients experienced difficulty getting treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that the quality of life of patients with breast cancer and their scheduled treatments have been adversely affected during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings suggest that more support should be provided by hospital centers and the medical research community to patients with cancer during this challenging pandemic.

LAY SUMMARY

The authors surveyed patients with breast cancer in Chicago using a questionnaire to examine how their lives have been affected during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The results indicate that the lives of patients with breast cancer and their scheduled treatments have been adversely affected during the pandemic. In addition, patients who were covered by Medicaid, most of whom were Black, were more likely to experience financial challenges. The findings suggest that hospital centers and the medical research community should reach out and provide more information to support patients with cancer during this challenging pandemic.

Determinants of quality of life in women immediately following the completion of primary treatment of breast cancer: A cross-sectional study

Backgrounds

Many breast cancer patients experience significant distress immediately following the completion of primary treatment. Women who report low levels of quality of life (QOL) early in this phase of transitional survivorship tend to experience diminished long-term adjustment. However, since most of the prior studies on survivors were conducted on patients at various times, studies on QOL of women during the end of primary treatment have been insufficient. This study aimed to identify determinants of QOL in women with breast cancer immediately following the completion of treatment.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 140 disease-free breast cancer patients who had completed therapy in the past 1 month at university hospitals. Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B), Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale-Short Form (MSAS-SF), Self-Efficacy Scale for Self-Management of Breast Cancer (SESSM-B), and Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-12 (ISEL-12) scales were used to assess predictors and QOL. The data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation, t-test, ANOVA, and hierarchical multiple regression.

Results

The mean score of QOL for breast cancer survivors was 97.23 (±20.01). Chemotherapy and perceived economic status were significantly associated with QOL in terms of sociodemographic and disease/treatment-related characteristics. Physical and psychological symptoms and social support had a significant association with QOL. The regression analyses showed that physical and psychological symptoms and belonging support were statistically significant in predicting the QOL of breast cancer survivors.

Conclusions

The variables of symptom experience and social support must be acknowledged when improving women’s QOL immediately after their completion of primary breast cancer treatment. Greater focus on the reduction of symptom distress and increasing a sense of belonging could improve QOL among breast cancer survivors.

The Evaluation of a Health-Based Education and Behavioral Change Retreat on Quality of Life, Physical Activity and Psychosocial Health in Adult Cancer Survivors: An Exploratory Analysis

Knights Cabin Cancer retreats may represent an ideal opportunity and environment to fill the gap in health education and behavioral change. It is unknown, however, whether the program improves quality of life, physical activity, and psychosocial health. Cancer survivors who enrolled in a retreat completed online questionnaires prior to and 3 months post to assess health-related quality of life, physical activity, and psychosocial variables; perceived stress, depression, and self-esteem. Paired t tests were utilized to compare changes pre and 3 months post the retreat. The majority of the 51 cancer survivors were female with a mean age of 53. The mental component summary of health-related quality of life (p < 0.016) and physical activity score (p = 0.048) was significantly improved at follow-up, while the physical component summary of health-related quality of life was not (p = 0.139). In addition, participants showed an improvement in psychosocial variables of self-esteem (p = 0.016) and depression (p = 0.016) after 3 months but did not show a significant improvement in perceived stress (p = 0.054). Improvements were seen following a Knights Cabin Cancer retreat in mental health-related quality of life and physical activity as well as some psychosocial variables. Further research is needed to evaluate the individual program components and the sustainability of the program in the community.

Informing Women About Overdetection in Breast Cancer Screening: Two-Year Outcomes From a Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Supporting well-informed decisions about breast cancer screening requires communicating that inconsequential disease may be detected, leading to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Having previously shown that telling women about overdetection improved informed choice, we investigated effects on screening knowledge and participation over 2 years.

METHODS

We conducted a community-based, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial in Australia. Participants were women aged 48-50 years, without personal or strong family history of breast cancer, who had not undergone mammography in the past 2 years. We randomly assigned 879 women to receive the intervention decision aid (evidence-based information on overdetection, breast cancer mortality reduction, and false-positives) or control decision aid (identical but without overdetection information). We interviewed 838 women postintervention and recontacted them for follow-up at 6 months and 1 and 2 years. Main outcomes for this report are screening knowledge and participation.

RESULTS

We interviewed 790, 746, and 712 participants at 6 months, 1, and 2 years, respectively. The intervention group demonstrated superior knowledge throughout follow-up. After 2 years, conceptual knowledge was adequate in 123 (34.4%) of 358 women in the intervention group compared with 71 (20.1%) of 354 control participants(odds ratio = 2.04, 95% confidence interval = 1.46 to 2.85). Groups were similar in total screening participation (200 [55.1%] vs 204 [56.0%]; = 0.97, 95% confidence interval = 0.73 to 1.29).

CONCLUSIONS

A brief decision aid produced lasting improvement in women's understanding of potential consequences of screening, including overdetection, without changing participation rates. These findings support the use of decision aids for breast cancer screening.

Mindfulness-based interventions for breast cancer patients in China across outcome domains: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the Chinese literature

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the treatment effect of a mindfulness-based intervention for Chinese breast cancer patients across outcome domains, including symptom-related, psychosocial, and quality of life outcomes.

METHODS

Following the Cochrane Systematic Review guideline, we searched across five electronic databases, reference lists of eligible studies, professional websites, and major academic journals in Chinese. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plot and Vevea and Woods sensitivity analysis, and risk of bias was evaluated using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials and risk of bias in non-randomized studies of interventions. A meta-analysis of Hedges' g was conducted using meta-regression with robust variance estimation.

RESULTS

Final analysis included a total of 45 controlled trials containing 286 effect size estimates. Across outcome domains, studies reported an overall large and statistically significant treatment effect, d = 0.921, 95% CI (0.805, 1.040), p < 0.001. Subgroup analyses of specific domains of outcome reported overall significant treatment effects for (1) symptom-related outcomes, d = 0.885, 95% CI (0.657, 1.110), p < 0.001; (2) psychosocial wellness outcomes, d = 0.984, 95% CI (0.879, 1.090), p < 0.001; and (3) quality of life, d = 0.990, 95% CI (0.776, 1.200), p < 0.001. Moderator analysis did not identify any significant moderator.

CONCLUSION

Chinese literature reported an overall statistically significant and large treatment effect of a mindfulness-based intervention for breast cancer patients in China. Except for physical symptom outcomes, e.g., nausea/vomiting and pain, a mindfulness-based intervention was effective across outcome domains among Chinese breast cancer patients.

Effects of art-based mandala intervention on distress and anxiety in cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

This study was planned to determine the effect of art-based mandala intervention on the distress and anxiety experienced by cancer patients.

METHODS

This semi-experimental study with a single group pretest-posttest design was performed with 12 breast cancer survival patients. The data were collected through "Patient Diagnostic Form", "Distress Thermometer", "Trait Anxiety Inventory". Patients participated in the "Art-Based Mandala Interventıon" for eight weeks, one day a week, 2 h each. The distress and anxiety levels of the patients were measured before starting the program and at the end of the program.

RESULTS

Cancer patients experienced moderate level of anxiety (50.66 ± 6.91) and clinically significant distress (4.08 ± 2.74). Anxiety scores of cancer patients decreased significantly after the program compared to before the program (p < 0.05). The distress scores of cancer patients increased after the program compared to before the program (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

After the art-based mandala intervention program, anxiety scores of breast cancer survival patients decreased, and distress scores increased.

Associations between breast cancer survivorship and adverse mental health outcomes: A matched population-based cohort study in the United Kingdom

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women globally, and 5-year net survival probabilities in high-income countries are generally >80%. A cancer diagnosis and treatment are often traumatic events, and many women struggle to cope during this period. Less is known, however, about the long-term mental health impact of the disease, despite many women living several years beyond their breast cancer and mental health being a major source of disability in modern societies. The objective of this study was to quantify the risk of several adverse mental health-related outcomes in women with a history of breast cancer followed in primary care in the United Kingdom National Health Service, compared to similar women who never had cancer.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We conducted a matched cohort study using data routinely collected in primary care across the UK to quantify associations between breast cancer history and depression, anxiety, and other mental health-related outcomes. All women with incident breast cancer in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) GOLD primary care database between 1988 and 2018 (N = 57,571, mean = 62 ± 14 years) were matched 1:4 to women with no prior cancer (N = 230,067) based on age, primary care practice, and eligibility of the data for linkage to hospital data sources. Cox models were used to estimate associations between breast cancer survivorship and each mental health-related outcome, further adjusting for diabetes, body mass index (BMI), and smoking and drinking status at baseline. Breast cancer survivorship was positively associated with anxiety (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 1.33; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29-1.36; p < 0.001), depression (1.35; 1.32-1.38; p < 0.001), sexual dysfunction (1.27; 1.17-1.38; p < 0.001), and sleep disorder (1.68; 1.63-1.73; p < 0.001), but not with cognitive dysfunction (1.00; 0.97-1.04; p = 0.88). Positive associations were also found for fatigue (HR = 1.28; 1.25-1.31; p < 0.001), pain (1.22; 1.20-1.24; p < 0.001), receipt of opioid analgesics (1.86; 1.83-1.90; p < 0.001), and fatal and nonfatal self-harm (1.15; 0.97-1.36; p = 0.11), but CI was wide, and the relationship was not statistically significant for the latter. HRs for anxiety and depression decreased over time (p-interaction <0.001), but increased risks persisted for 2 and 4 years, respectively, after cancer diagnosis. Increased levels of pain and sleep disorder persisted for 10 years. Younger age was associated with larger HRs for depression, cognitive dysfunction, pain, opioid analgesics use, and sleep disorders (p-interaction <0.001 in each case). Limitations of the study include the potential for residual confounding by lifestyle factors and detection bias due to cancer survivors having greater healthcare contact.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we observed that compared to women with no prior cancer, breast cancer survivors had higher risk of anxiety, depression, sleep problems, sexual dysfunction, fatigue, receipt of opioid analgesics, and pain. Relative risks estimates tended to decrease over time, but anxiety and depression were significantly increased for 2 and 4 years after breast cancer diagnosis, respectively, while associations for fatigue, pain, and sleep disorders were elevated for at least 5-10 years after diagnosis. Early diagnosis and increased awareness among patients, healthcare professionals, and policy makers are likely to be important to mitigate the impacts of these raised risks.

Exploring the impact of physical, emotional, and practical changes following treatment on the daily lives of cancer survivors

OBJECTIVE

To understand the impact of changes following treatment on daily lives of cancer survivors.

METHODS

A national survey was conducted with cancer survivors about experiences with follow-up care. The survey included open-ended questions about changes in daily lives following treatment. A qualitative descriptive analysis was completed with the written comments.

RESULTS

A total of 4575 individuals (33.8% of survey respondents) wrote about impact of changes following cancer treatment. Sixty-one percent were females. Breast (35.2%) and colorectal (17.7%) cancer accounted for largest respondent groups. Survivors identified a myriad of physical, emotional, and practical changes. Impacts on daily living occurred from changes in each domain with change in one area impacting others as well. Predominant issues included physical limitations, mood swings, fear of recurrence, return to work, and financial burdens.

IMPLICATIONS

Cancer survivors can experience a range of changes following cancer treatment that impact on their daily lives. Individualized assessment and tailored plans for follow-up are recommended.

A 4-Month Whole-Systems Ayurvedic Medicine Nutrition and Lifestyle Intervention Is Feasible and Acceptable for Breast Cancer Survivors: Results of a Single-Arm Pilot Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

Ongoing symptoms and impairments in quality of life (QOL) among breast cancer survivors remain a significant problem. We tested the feasibility and acceptability of a manualized Ayurvedic nutrition and lifestyle intervention for breast cancer survivors.

METHODS

Eligible participants had Stage I-III breast cancer, underwent treatment within the past year that included chemotherapy, and were without active disease. The 4-month individualized Ayurvedic intervention included counseling on nutrition, lifestyle, yoga, and marma (like acupressure) during 8 one-on-one visits with an Ayurvedic practitioner. Feasibility and acceptability were the primary outcomes. QOL (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire [EORTC QLQ C30]) and symptoms-sleep disturbance (General Sleep Disturbance Scale [GSDS]), fatigue (Lee Fatigue Scale [LFS]), depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale [CES-D]), anxiety (Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI-S, STAI-T]), and stress (Perceived Stress Scale [PSS])-were measured prior to, at midpoint, and at the end of the 4-month intervention. Effect sizes (Cohen's d) were calculated along with paired t tests comparing baseline to end of month 4 time points. Mixed effects models were used for repeated measures analyses.

RESULTS

Participants (n = 32) had a mean age of 48 years (SD = 10). Retention at the end of the intervention was 84%. Among those who completed the intervention (n = 27), adherence was high (99.5% of visits with practitioners attended). Large improvements were seen in QLQ-C30 emotional functioning (d = 0.84, P < 0.001), QLQ-C30 cognitive functioning (d = 0.86, P < 0.001), GSDS (d = -1.23, P < 0.001), and CES-D (d = -1.21, P < 0.001). Moderate improvements were seen in QLQ-C30 global health (d = 0.65, p = 0.003), LFS (d = -0.68, P = 0.002), and PSS (d = -0.75, P < 0.001). No adverse events were observed due to the intervention.

CONCLUSION

This 4-month Ayurvedic whole-systems multimodal nutrition and lifestyle intervention was feasible and acceptable for breast cancer survivors. Promise of clinical benefit was seen in terms of improvements in symptoms and QOL that warrants further investigation.

Factors influencing psychological wellbeing of early breast cancer patients

Aim

This paper aims to identify factors that influence the psychological wellbeing of patients newly diagnosed with localized breast cancer.

Background

Psychological wellbeing plays a significant part in the personal experience of patients during their cancer journey. However, despite progress in treatments and outcomes in breast cancer, psychosocial services and emotional support of cancer patients have been given less attention.

Materials and methods

Data were collected through a retrospective review of 274 charts of women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2012 and 2017 that received care in a single cancer center. Disease specific parameters, social and demographic variables, and Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) scores were extracted from the patient charts.

Results

Self-reported scores of psychological-related symptoms were low (suggesting no or minimal psychological distress) at baseline and remained low in the majority of patients with breast cancer. Pain, depression, anxiety and wellbeing scores of 0-2 were observed in 78.5%, 81.4%, 63.5% and 70.1% of patients, respectively. Higher scores of anxiety at baseline were observed in patients with physical restrictions on the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) (14.9%), current smoking (20.5%) and history of mental illness (19.1%). Increasing scores for pain were observed in older patients during treatment as compared to baseline. Mastectomy was associated with increased scores for wellbeing (worsening wellbeing) as compared to lumpectomy. Of the patients with a history of mental illness (17.3%), 19.1% had more often increased scores for anxiety.

Conclusions

The findings highlight patients that may benefit from additional social and psychological supports at diagnosis and while undergoing treatment.

Determining the Concerns of Breast Cancer Survivors to Inform Practice

OBJECTIVE

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women across all ethnicities, accounting for almost one in three incident cancers in female, and the leading cause of mortality in Singapore. Literature reveals that survivors of breast cancer have many concerns, and these concerns can linger on for decades. The primary aim of this secondary analysis was to establish the concerns of breast cancer survivors and use the data to inform practice.

METHODS

The present report was part of a bigger data designed to evaluate the concerns of cancer survivors (top six cancers) across the survivorship trajectory. Data of 438 breast cancer survivors were derived from a cross-sectional survey of the self-reported concerns of 1107 cancer survivors, using the questionnaire adopted from the Mayo Clinic Cancer Centre's Cancer Survivors Survey of Needs. Logistic regression models were fitted to estimate the odds ratios to assess the association of various variables with the presence of ≥1 concerned or very concerned issue among patients. Linear regression models were fitted to identify the variables associated with quality of life (QOL).

RESULTS

A total of 438 breast cancer survivors responded to this survey. The top five concerns were cancer treatment and recurrence risk (55.5%), followed by fear of recurrence (FOR) (54.6%), long-term effects of treatment (53.4%), osteoporosis/bone health (39.0%), and keeping primary care physicians informed (37.4%). Cancer treatment and recurrence risk, FOR, and long-term treatment effects were among the top concerns across the survivorship trajectory. The mean QOL was 7.5 on a scale of 0-10.

CONCLUSIONS

Irrespective of the cancer trajectory, survivors of breast cancer have serious concerns that warrant attention. Designing patient care delivery that addresses these concerns identified is critical in assisting them in their coping process and enhancing their QOL.

COVID-19 Lockdown and Its Adverse Impact on Psychological Health in Breast Cancer

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak generated an unprecedented set of emotional challenges for women diagnosed with breast cancer. In the United Kingdom (UK), the pandemic significantly disrupted oncology services as resources were reassigned to care for COVID-19 patients. In addition to service disruptions, many women received a UK Government letter advising them to shield for 12-weeks. We aimed to explore the effect of disruption to scheduled oncology services and the UK Government shielding letter on emotional and cognitive vulnerability. A further aim was to investigate the relationship between COVID-19 related emotional vulnerability (COVID-EMV) and anxiety, depression and perceived cognitive function. Women diagnosed with primary breast cancer (N = 234) completed a series of online questionnaires to assess their cognitive and emotional wellbeing as well as their COVID-EMV. Results indicated that disrupted oncology services had a significant impact on COVID-EMV, anxiety and depression, with those experiencing disruptions expressing higher general emotional vulnerability as well as COVID-EMV. Further, the UK Government letter had a significant effect on perceived cognitive function; those who received the letter reported poorer cognitive function. Regression analyses revealed that after allowing for the effects of sociodemographic and clinical variables, women’s COVID-EMV significantly predicted worse outcomes of anxiety, depression and perceived cognitive function. Our findings indicate that concerns about COVID-19 amongst women affected by breast cancer leads to increased risk of developing affective disorder, such as anxiety and depression symptomatology, among this sample. We advocate the rapid implementation of accessible interventions designed to promote emotional resilience in the breast cancer population.

Breast Cancer Survivor Symptoms: A Comparison of Physicians' Consultation Records and Nurse-Led Survivorship Care Plans

BACKGROUND

Survivorship care plans (SCPs) have been used to address ongoing health problems associated with the diagnosis and treatment of early-stage breast cancer.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this article was to determine whether nurse-led consultations using SCPs, as compared with a standard medical consultation, identify more side effects and supportive care needs and lead to appropriate referral patterns.

METHODS

The study audited 160 retrospective medical clinic and nursing SCP records in a sample of patients receiving treatment for early-stage breast cancer at a tertiary-level breast service in Australia.

FINDINGS

Breast care nurses (BCNs) undertaking SCPs at a nurse-led consultation were significantly more likely than physicians to record symptoms related to menopausal/hormonal therapy, psychosocial/mental health, lifestyle, bone health, and sexuality. BCNs were also significantly more likely to refer patients for concerns related to psychosocial/mental health, lifestyle, and sexuality.

The impact of bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy on sexuality and quality of life in women with breast cancer

OBJECTIVE

To compare sexual function and quality of life (QoL) in breast cancer survivors with and without a history of bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of breast cancer survivors treated at a tertiary referral hospital in Western Australia. The Female Sexual Function Index was used to determine rates of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) and hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). Participants also completed the Relationship Assessment Scale, Menopause-specific quality of life questionnaire and Short Form Health Survey-36.

RESULTS

A total of 427 women were invited to participate: 119 had undergone BSO and 308 were controls with at least one ovary remaining. A total of 172 women participated (overall response rate 40.3%), consisting of 76 women in the BSO group (response rate 63.9%) and 96 women with at least one ovary remaining (response rate 31.2%). There was no difference in FSD between the two groups: 63/76 (82.9%) women who had undergone BSO had FSD compared to 75/96 (78.1%) controls (p = 0.458). No difference in HSDD was observed (p = 0.084) between the BSO group 70/76 (96.0%) and the controls 96/96 (100%). Women who had undergone BSO had lower general health scores compared to the control group (p = 0.034). Both groups had similar energy levels, emotional well-being, pain scores, physical functioning levels and social functioning levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, women with prior treatment for breast cancer had high levels of FSD and HSDD, irrespective of whether they had undergone BSO. Both groups reported similar sexual function scores and QoL.

Satisfaction with care and adherence to treatment when using patient reported outcomes to individualize follow-up care for women with early breast cancer - a pilot randomized controlled trial

Background: The population of breast cancer survivors is increasing as a positive consequence of early detection and enhanced treatment. The disease and treatment associated side-effects or late-effects often impact on quality of life and daily life functions during survivorship. This calls for optimization of follow-up care. We aimed to evaluate the patients' satisfaction with the care provided, when using electronic patient reported outcomes (ePROs) to individualize follow-up care in women with early breast cancer receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy.Material and methods: Postmenopausal women treated for hormone receptor positive early breast cancer were included in a pilot randomized controlled trial and randomized to receive standard follow-up care with prescheduled consultations every six months or individualized follow-up care with the active use of ePROs to screen for the need of consultations. ePROs were distributed every third month over a two-year period. Primary outcomes were satisfaction with the assigned follow-up care and unmet needs. Secondary outcomes were use of consultations, adherence to treatment and quality of life.Results: Of the 207 consecutive patients who were potentially eligible for the study, 134 women were enrolled (65%). In total 64 women in standard care and 60 women in individualized care were analyzed. No statistically significant differences were reported in relation to satisfaction, unmet needs, adherence to treatment or quality of life. Women in standard care attended twice as many consultations during the two year follow-up period as women in individualized care; 4.3 (95% CI 3.9-4.7) versus 2.1 (95% CI: 1.6-2.6), p < .001.Conclusion: A significant reduction in consultations was observed for the group attending individualized care without compromising the patients' satisfaction, quality of life or adherence to treatment. For the majority of postmenopausal women treated for early breast cancer, implementation of ePROs to individualize follow-up care was feasible.

The impact of health symptoms on health-related quality of life in early-stage breast cancer survivors

PURPOSE

In breast cancer patients, treatment-related health symptoms can occur that may affect their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study aimed to determine the impact of health symptoms on HRQoL in breast cancer patients up to 5 years after diagnosis.

METHODS

Females surgically treated for early-stage breast cancer diagnosed between 2012 and 2016 (n = 876) were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry and invited for a survey about current health symptoms ('Symptoms and Perceptions questionnaire', SaP) and HRQoL ('EORTC-QLQ-C30'). From the latter, functioning and global health were included. Mean scores were compared to norm population scores (T test). Multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to determine the association between health symptoms and global health and functioning.

RESULTS

404 patients (46%) responded. The median age was 62.2 ± 10.9 years. Respondents had significantly lower mean scores for role, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning than the general population. The most frequently reported health symptoms were musculoskeletal (including pain/complaints in lower/upper extremities/back/neck; 71%) and central nervous system symptoms (including concentration impairment, dizziness, neuralgia; 66%), and fatigue (63%). While most symptoms affected functioning, irrespective of time since diagnosis, especially fatigue, musculoskeletal, central nervous system, and gastrointestinal symptoms were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with lower functioning.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of health symptoms that occur after breast cancer treatment were associated with lower functioning of patients in daily life. This paper urges healthcare providers to support breast cancer patients in alleviating or coping with health symptoms, even years after end of treatment, to improve their functioning.

Psychological distress and quality of life among Jordanian women diagnosed with breast cancer: The role of trait mindfulness

BACKGROUND

Patients diagnosed with breast cancer were reported to have high levels of psychosocial distress and poor quality of life (QOL). Mindfulness is believed to improve QOL and reduce psychological distress in various populations, but its unique association with QOL and psychological distress in women with breast cancer has yet to be established.

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to examine the relationship of mindfulness with depression, anxiety and QOL of women diagnosed with breast cancer.

METHODS

A descriptive, correlation design was used.

RESULTS

A sample of 234 Jordanian women completed the study. 24% of the participants scored above the cut-off for clinical depression, 36.3% scored above the cut-off for clinical anxiety, and 35.5% scored above the cut-off for poor QOL. Mindfulness accounted for significant unique variance in depression, anxiety and QOL above and beyond the variance accounted for by the demographic variables, clinical variables and social support.

CONCLUSION

The current study provided preliminary evidence for the relationship of social support and mindfulness with the psychological well-being and QOL among Jordanian women with breast cancer. Future research may want to tailor an intervention that combines social support and mindfulness-based interventions and identify their benefits to support Jordanian women with breast cancer.

Compression Vest Treatment for Symptomatic Breast Edema in Women Treated for Breast Cancer: A Pilot Study

Background: Lymphedema of the breast/chest wall after breast cancer treatment is often associated with pain and reduced quality of life. We conducted a pilot study to evaluate whether the use of a compression vest reduced symptoms of breast/chest wall edema in breast cancer patients. Methods and Results: This single-center study included patients (n = 25) with symptomatic breast/chest wall edema with a pain score of ≥3 on the Numerical Rating Scales (range 1-10). The patients were instructed to wear a compression vest (Lymphatrex, Class II) for 6 months. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare differences in patient-reported pain intensity/severity. Analyses included all patients with available data. In total, 17 (68%) continued to wear their vests for 6 months, whereas the other 8 withdrew prematurely. At baseline, median pain severity (4.9, interquartile range [IQR] 3.6-6.0) and pain interference (4.3, IQR 2.1-5.9) scores were significantly higher compared with pain scores after wearing the compression vest for 6 months (1.8 IQR 1.0-4.8 and 1.4 IQR 0.9-4.4, resp.). Patient-reported breast/chest wall swelling decreased from 92% (n = 22) at baseline to 71% (n = 12) at 6 months. The prevalence of moderate/severe patient-reported breast/chest wall pain declined from 63% (n = 15) at baseline to 18% (n = 3) at 6 months. Physical, emotional, and social functioning improved over time and was comparable to scores of the Dutch reference population. Conclusion: The results of this pilot study suggest that a compression vest could be an acceptable and effective treatment option for patients with painful breast/chest wall edema. In compliant patients, swelling and pain was significantly reduced.

Transition to survivorship: can there be improvement?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The transition from primary cancer treatment to posttreatment follow-up care is seen as critical to the long-term health of survivors. However, relatively little attention has been paid to understanding this pivotal period. This review will offer a brief outline of the significant work surrounding this pivotal time published in the past year.

RECENT FINDINGS

The growing number of cancer survivors has stimulated an emphasis on finding new models of care, whereby responsibility for survivorship follow-up is transitioned to primary care providers. A variety of models and tools have emerged for follow-up care. Survivorship care plans are heralded as a key component of survivorship care and a vehicle for supporting transition. Uptake of survivorship care plans and implementation of evidence-based models of survivorship care has been slow, hindered by a range of barriers.

SUMMARY

Evaluation is needed regarding survivorship models in terms of feasibility, survivor friendliness, cost effectiveness, and achievement of sustainable outcomes. How, and when, to introduce plans for transition to the patient and determine transition readiness are important considerations but need to be informed by evidence. Additional study is needed to identify best practice for the introduction and application of survivorship care plans.

Breast Edema Following Breast-Conserving Surgery and Radiotherapy: Patient-Reported Prevalence, Determinants, and Effect on Health-Related Quality of Life

Background

The association between lymphedema of the arm and impaired health-related QoL (HR-QoL) has led to changes in clinical practice. However, data on lymphedema of the breast (ie, breast edema) are lacking. We prospectively evaluated patient-reported prevalence and determinants of breast edema and its effect on patient-reported HR-QoL and breast pain.

Methods

We prospectively included 836 patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery followed by radiotherapy between October 2013 and October 2016 (UMBRELLA cohort). Patient-reported breast edema, HR-QoL, and breast pain were assessed by means of European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer-C30/BR23 before starting radiotherapy and at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months thereafter. We assessed which patient, tumor, and treatment characteristics were associated with breast edema. With mixed-effects models, we assessed the impact of breast edema on patient-reported HR-QoL domains and breast pain over time, adjusting for confounders.

Results

Within a median follow-up of 28 months (interquartile range [IQR] = 15), 207 (24.8%) patients reported breast edema at some point in time. Prevalence of breast edema was highest at 6 months (12.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 10.0 to 14.7). Larger tumor size, oncoplastic surgery, axillary lymph node dissection, locoregional radiotherapy, radiotherapy boost on the tumor bed, and adjuvant chemotherapy were associated with breast edema. Breast edema was independently associated with more breast pain and with poorer QoL, physical functioning, and body image.

Conclusions

Breast edema occurs frequently within the first year after breast-conserving surgery and radiotherapy and is independently associated with impaired HR-QoL and more breast pain. This information is important for use in clinical practice and should be discussed with patients during shared decision making.

Training Cognitive Functions Using Mobile Apps in Breast Cancer Patients: Systematic Review

Background

Breast cancer is an invalidating disease and its treatment can bring serious side effects that have a physical and psychological impact. Specifically, cancer treatment generally has a strong impact on cognitive function. In recent years, new technologies and eHealth have had a growing influence on health care and innovative mobile apps can be useful tools to deliver cognitive exercise in the patient’s home.

Objective

This systematic review gives an overview of the state-of-the-art mobile apps aimed at training cognitive functions to better understand whether these apps could be useful tools to counteract cognitive impairment in breast cancer patients.

Methods

We searched in a systematic way all the full-text articles from the PubMed and Embase databases.

Results

We found eleven studies using mobile apps to deliver cognitive training. They included a total of 819 participants. App and study characteristics are presented and discussed, including cognitive domains trained (attention, problem solving, memory, cognitive control, executive function, visuospatial function, and language). None of the apps were specifically developed for breast cancer patients. They were generally developed for a specific clinical population. Only 2 apps deal with more than 1 cognitive domain, and only 3 studies focus on the efficacy of the app training intervention.

Conclusions

These results highlight the lack of empirical evidence on the efficacy of currently available apps to train cognitive function. Cognitive domains are not well defined across studies. It is noteworthy that no apps are specifically developed for cancer patients, and their applicability to breast cancer should not be taken for granted. Future studies should test the feasibility, usability, and effectiveness of available cognitive training apps in women with breast cancer. Due to the complexity and multidimensionality of cognitive difficulties in this cancer population, it may be useful to design, develop, and implement an ad hoc app targeting cognitive impairment in breast cancer patients.