Providing Supportive Care for Young Breast Cancer Patients: Exploring the Comfort Level and Educational Needs of the Interprofessional Health Care Team at a Comprehensive Cancer Centre

摘要

Introduction: Younger patients diagnosed with breast cancer have unique issues compared with their older counterparts, including premature menopause, body image, and fertility/relationship concerns. However, breast cancer information tends to focus on older patients. The interprofessional team at a large hospital was surveyed to assess comfort level and knowledge of supportive care for the younger population.Methods: A one-time, cross-sectional survey was distributed to oncologists, nurses, radiation therapists, and other supportive care professionals. The survey included multiple-choice, Likert scale, and open-ended questions asking participants to assess their knowledge and comfort level around the issues faced by younger breast cancer patients. Demographic information was collected, and results were analyzed using descriptive statistics.