Survey of Treatment of Primary Breast Cancer in Italy
Author Information
Author(s): A. Nicolucci, G. Apolone, R. Fossati, P. Mosconi, C. Confalonieri, A. Alexanian, W. Torri, A. Liberati
Primary Institution: GIVIO Coordinating Center, Health Care Research Unit, Mario Negri Institute
Hypothesis
What factors influence physicians' decision-making for patients with early breast cancer?
Conclusion
The study found that physicians' treatment preferences for early breast cancer are influenced by specialty, hospital size, and personal attitudes.
Supporting Evidence
- 90% of respondents favored limited surgery for a 35-year-old patient.
- 78% favored adjuvant chemotherapy for premenopausal node-positive women.
- Physicians' specialty was a significant predictor of treatment preferences.
Takeaway
Doctors in Italy have different opinions on how to treat early breast cancer, and these opinions can depend on their specialty and where they work.
Methodology
A mail survey was conducted among 970 physicians to assess their treatment preferences for early breast cancer.
Potential Biases
Physicians' personal opinions and institutional factors may influence their treatment preferences.
Limitations
The study may overestimate the popularity of limited surgery due to social desirability bias.
Participant Demographics
Of the 970 physicians, 861 (89%) were men and 109 (11%) were women, with various specialties including surgeons, internists, and oncologists.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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