Living into old age with the consequences of breast cancer

Abstract

Purpose of the research: Breast cancer survival rates are improving with over 60% likely to live 20 years. As 30% diagnoses occur in women over 70 the prevalence of breast cancer survivors living into older age is increasing. The specific needs and experiences of this group have rarely been addressed. This study aimed to explore older women's experience of living with breast cancer alongside other health conditions, and to identify their information and support needs and preferences. Methods and sample: Data were collected from 28 semi-structured qualitative interviews and 2 focus groups (n´14), with breast cancer survivors aged 70-90, and were analysed using thematic analysis. Key Results: These older breast cancer survivors experienced a range of long-term physical problems resulting from treatment, including poor cosmetic results and poor shoulder movements, and bras and prostheses were often unsuitable. Many were keen to preserve their body image ideal irrespective of age. Reconstruction was rarely discussed, but all would have liked this option. Older women wanted to be treated as individuals rather than uniformly as older people, with their personal physical and social needs (including comorbidities) taken into account. They expressed a preference for information direct from health professionals. Conclusions: Many breast cancer survivors will live into advanced old age with permanent physical and emotional consequences of their treatment. Holistic and personalized assessment of needs becomes increasingly important with age, particularly with comorbidity. Effective rehabilitative care is important to reduce the impact of breast cancer into old age.Suggested Reviewers: Amanda Shewbridge MSc Consultant Nurse, Breast Cancer , Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London Amanda.Shewbridge@gstt.nhs.uk 17.7.2012Dear Alex, We would be grateful if you would consider publishing this paper which presents the findings of original research in elderly survivors of breast cancer. While it is known that women can experience many long term consequences of their breast cancer treatment, this paper highlights than women may continue to suffer physical and emotional consequences, not only in the long term, but into their advanced old age and which have not been addressed or resolved. This is having a permanent impact on their lives and ability to function into old age. Furthermore, their preferred form of receiving information in the form of professional communication is lacking and so elderly breast cancer survivors are not getting the support they need. Methods and sample: Data were collected from 28 semi-structured qualitative interviews and 2 focus groups (n´14), with breast cancer survivors aged 70-90, and were analysed using thematic analysis.Key Results: These older breast cancer survivors experienced a range of longterm physical problems resulting from treatment, including poor cosmetic results and poor shoulder movements, and bras and prostheses were often unsuitable.Many were keen to preserve their body image ide...

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