Survey on Breast Cancer Follow-Up
Author Information
Author(s): Hans-Joachim Stemmler, Dorit Lässig, Petra Stieber, Ingo Bauerfeind, Steffen Kahlert, Alexander Fasching Peter, Wilhelm Beckmann Matthias, Margrit Glattes, Ursula Goldmann-Posch, Verena Hoffmann, Michael Untch, Volker Heinemann
Primary Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich
Hypothesis
What are the patients' views on the necessity and adequacy of follow-up care after breast cancer treatment?
Conclusion
The survey indicates that most physicians do not adhere to current follow-up guidelines, and patients desire more intensive follow-up for increased security.
Supporting Evidence
- 95% of patients affirmed the necessity for follow-up care.
- 47.8% of organized patients wanted more intensive diagnostic efforts.
- 80% of patients felt that intensified follow-up increased their sense of security.
- 90% of patients with recurrence required more laboratory and imaging procedures.
- Majority of physicians do not accept current follow-up guidelines.
Takeaway
Many women who survived breast cancer think regular check-ups are important and want more tests to feel safe.
Methodology
A survey was conducted among 2,658 breast cancer survivors in Germany, with 801 responding.
Potential Biases
The majority of respondents were members of a self-help group, potentially skewing the results towards those with more interest in follow-up.
Limitations
Only one third of the patients responded, which may bias the results towards those more engaged in follow-up care.
Participant Demographics
Median age of respondents was 62 years, with a range of 23 to 85 years; 71.7% were disease-free at the time of the survey.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0005
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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