Open Access Follow-up Care for Early Breast Cancer: A Randomised Controlled Quality of Life Analysis

This study evaluated the acceptability of a supportive model of follow-up. One hundred and twelve women recovering from breast cancer were randomised to receive standard breast clinic aftercare (Control n=56) or on demand by open access aftercare by breast care nurses (Intervention n=56). Participants attended a support-based psycho-educational program delivered in four half day group sessions. Three quality of life questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30, QLQ-BR23, HADS) were administered at baseline and 6-monthly intervals for two years. Multilevel linear regression modelling methods were used for evaluation. Age was found to be a statistically significant predictor of quality of life in several sub-scales. Increasing age was negatively associated with sexual functioning, systematic therapy side effects and physical functioning, and positively associated with future perspective. Aftercare assignment was not found to be a statistically significant predictor. Women treated for early breast cancer were not disadvantaged by allocation to the open access supportive care model in terms of quality of life experienced. The model for follow-up was demonstrated to be a feasible alternative to routinized hospital based follow-up and adds to the evidence for stratified follow-up for low risk cancer patients, incorporating self-management education. Stratified follow-up pathways are viewed as a preferable approach

A pilot study of a body image intervention for breast cancer survivors

© 2018 Elsevier Ltd Body image interventions for breast cancer survivors are lacking in empirical support. Examining existing research on effective body image interventions for women in midlife more broadly may provide useful insights. This pilot study assessed the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary effects of a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy-based intervention adapted from women in midlife to promote positive body image among breast cancer survivors. Twenty-two breast cancer survivors received the 7-week group intervention, co-facilitated by a clinical psychologist and peer. Participant evaluations suggested the intervention was both acceptable (e.g., 94% would recommend it) and feasible (e.g., 91% completed the intervention). Improvements were identified at either post-test or 1-month follow-up in nearly all body image measures. Maintained improvements were found in body appreciation, weight and shape concern, acceptance of aging-related appearance changes, and self-esteem. This study suggests that the adapted intervention is acceptable, feasible, and demonstrates preliminary efficacy in improving body image and secondary outcomes among breast cancer survivors