title: Multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer management in Kuwait, 1993-1998.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In Kuwait, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women. The present study reviews the clinical features, treatment methods and treatment results of breast cancer patients registered in the Kuwait Cancer Control Center (KCCC) and compares these features with those reported in other Arab countries, Europe and North America.
  
  
  METHODS
  The present study examines 823 patients with breast cancer who were registered in the KCCC from 1993 to 1998. Patients were identified through the Kuwait Cancer Registry and their cases were followed for at least five years.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Eleven males accounted for 1.3% of all patients. The average age was one decade younger than that reported in western countries but similar to reports from Egypt and GCC countries. Surgery was applied in 90.4% of patients. Breast conservation (lumpectomy and axillary clearance) was performed in 19.6% of patients, while mastectomy and axillary clearance was adopted in 60.8%. Radiotherapy was applied in 67.7% of patients and chemotherapy in 60.8%. The long-term overall survival and disease-free survival amounted to 76+/-6.4% and 54+/-4.6% respectively. Prognostic factors were analyzed using univariate and multivariate analysis. According to multivariate analysis the nodal status, the number of involved nodes and histopathology were independent prognostic factors. Comparable results were achieved after both breast conservation and mastectomy.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Since breast conservation protocols yield results similar to mastectomy, its use should be extended. Search for biological prognostic indicators should continue for their potential use as guides for treatment decisions.
authors.affiliation: Radiation Oncology Department, Kuwait Cancer Control Center.
authors.forename: Mohamed
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Motawy
authors.forename: Omar
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: El Hattab
authors.forename: Salah
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Fayaz
authors.forename: Medhat
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Oteifa
authors.forename: Juzer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ali
authors.forename: Thomas
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: George
authors.forename: Ibrahim
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Barghash
authors.forename: Sadeq
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Abuzallouf
authors.forename: Mohammed
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: El Jarallah