Women's experience of breast conserving treatment for breast cancer.
The implementation of the National Breast Screening Programme in the UK, and subsequent increase in early detection of small cancers, has facilitated breast conserving treatment for more women with a breast cancer diagnosis than ever before. While a substantial body of literature has evolved regarding psychosocial morbidity and support needs of women at diagnosis and during treatment, there are specific gaps in the current knowledge base. The purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of women who had breast conserving treatment for early breast cancer, focusing on issues related to diagnosis, surgery, and radiotherapy. The study was designed within the context of clinical audit, with a view to informing service development. Seventy-six women who had undergone breast conserving surgery within the last 3-12 months, completed a self-report questionnaire. Findings indicated that although the majority of women expressed satisfaction with their treatment overall, a number of specific areas require attention from healthcare professionals. Further research is required to validate these findings and to explore: potential implications of different referral routes; information and support needs preceding definitive diagnosis; particular needs of those women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) vs. invasive disease; 'end of treatment' and ongoing information and support needs.
McPhail
G
G
Nursing and Midwifery School, University of Glasgow, UK. gmcphail@clinmed.gla.ac.uk
Wilson
S
S
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001828:Body Image; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015412:Mastectomy, Segmental; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D012723:Sex; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires