Collaborative/active participation per se does not decrease anxiety in breast cancer.
The information needs of breast cancer patients on their disease, its treatment, the prognosis, and their attitude to decision-making concerning treatment were assessed. One hundred and fifty early and 45 metastatic breast cancer patients were recruited into the study. The amount of information and role in the treatment decision-making process preferred by the patient were independently estimated by the patient and the oncologist, using questionnaires. Information was provided in accordance with the wishes of the patient as perceived by the physician. Test of anxiety was performed before, and one week after the consultation. Most of the patients claimed to anticipate the provision of extensive information and an active role in the decision-making, but real interest during the consultation was found less frequently. The post-consultation anxiety test revealed a significant decrease in situational anxiety; this was not related to the patient's information needs or her attitude to the decision-making concerning treatment. Our study demonstrates that a significant decrease in anxiety may be achieved via a consultation tailored to the needs of the patient. Loading the patient with information and involvement in the decision regarding therapy as much as the patient seems comfortable with lowers distress.
Kahán
Zsuzsanna
Z
Department of Oncotherapy, University of Szeged, Szeged, H-6720, Hungary. kahan@onko.szote.u-szeged.hu
Varga
Katalin
K
Dudás
Rita
R
Nyári
Tibor
T
Thurzó
László
L
D022126:Access to Information / Q000523:psychology; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001007:Anxiety / Q000523:psychology*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D003657:Decision Making; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008875:Middle Aged; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010358:Patient Participation / Q000523:psychology*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires