Analyzing current practice patterns: lessons from Amgen's Project ChemoInsight.
OBJECTIVE
To retrospectively review data on chemotherapy dose/dose intensity in patients with breast cancer.


METHODS
Computerized database, published articles, and book chapter.


RESULTS
Chart reviews were conducted of 20,106 patients with breast cancer from 1,135 oncology practices throughout the United States. More dose delays, dose reductions, and suboptimal dose intensity occur in patients who are 65 years of age or older. Overall, dose intensity was not achieved in 18.4% of patients, dose reductions occurred in 25.7% of patients, and dose delays occurred in 43.1% of patients. Neutropenia was often the cause of dose delays/reductions.


CONCLUSIONS
A substantial number of patients with breast cancer experience chemotherapy dose delays or reductions.


CONCLUSIONS
Guidelines may help consistently manage primary and secondary prophylaxis of neutropenia. Nurses' can influence patients' attitudes about prescribed therapies.
Hayes
N A
NA
Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, CA, USA. nhayes@amgen.com
D000368:Aged; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008499:Medical Records; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000592:standards*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014481:United States
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents