Young women with breast cancer have poorer prognosis, greater lifetime risk of local recurrence, contralateral recurrence, and distant disease, regardless of surgery received. Here we systematically review published evidence relating to the information requirements and preferences of young women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer offered a choice between mastectomy and breast conservation surgery (BCS). Findings will inform the development of a surgical decision aid for young women.
Eight databases were searched to identify research examining information requirements of young women facing breast oncological surgery treatment decisions. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted and summarized in a narrative synthesis.
Findings indicate that young women prefer greater and more detailed information regarding treatment side effects, sexuality, and body image. Younger age of diagnosis leads to an increased risk perception of developing a body image and career. Information is required in a continuum throughout the treatment experience and not only at diagnosis when treatment decisions are made. Young women show differing levels of participation preferences.
Young women find decision-making challenging when the characteristics of diagnosis provide a surgical choice between mastectomy and breast conservation surgery. Efforts should be made to provide information regarding sexuality, body image, reconstruction, fertility and likelihood of familial predisposition. Further research is needed to identify the specific level and information requirements of this young-onset group. The low number of studies indicates a need to design studies targeting specifically this age group of breast cancer patients.
NWGH.
Has not received any funding.
The author has declared no conflicts of interest.