The reality in the follow-up of breast cancer survivors: survey of Korean Breast Cancer Society.
10.4174/astr.2015.88.3.133
- Author:
Ku Sang KIM
1
;
Zisun KIM
;
Eun Jung SHIM
;
Nam Hyoung KIM
;
So Youn JUNG
;
Jisun KIM
;
Guiyun SOHN
;
Jong Won LEE
;
Jihyoung CHO
;
Jung Eun LEE
;
Juhyung LEE
;
Hyun Jo YOUN
;
Jihyoun LEE
;
Min Hyuk LEE
Author Information
1. Department of Surgery, Breast-Thyroid Center, Ulsan City Hospital, Ulsan, Korea.
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Surveillance;
Breast neoplasms;
Survivors;
Guideline
- MeSH:
Breast;
Breast Neoplasms*;
Surveys and Questionnaires;
Electronic Mail;
Follow-Up Studies*;
Humans;
Korea;
Magnetic Resonance Imaging;
Mammography;
Mass Screening;
Physical Examination;
Survivors*;
Ultrasonography, Mammary;
Surveys and Questionnaires
- From:Annals of Surgical Treatment and Research
2015;88(3):133-139
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
PURPOSE: Follow-up after primary treatment for breast cancer is an important component of survivor care and various international guidelines exist for the surveillance. However, little is known about current actual practice patterns of physicians whether they adhere to or deviate from recommended guidelines. The aim of this study was to determine how physicians follow-up their patients after primary treatment for breast cancer in Korea. METHODS: A questionnaire survey with 34 questions in 4 categories was e-mailed to the members of Korean Breast Cancer Society from November to December 2013. Respondents were asked how they use follow-up modalities after primary treatment of breast cancer and we compared the survey results with present guidelines. RESULTS: Of the 129 respondents, 123 (95.3%) were breast surgeons. The most important consideration in follow-up was tumor stage. History taking, physical examinations, and mammography were conducted in similar frequency recommended by other guidelines while breast ultrasonography was performed more often. The advanced imaging studies such as CT, MRI, and bone scan, which had been recommended to be conducted only if necessary, were also examined more frequently. Regular screenings for secondary malignancy were performed in 38 respondents (29.5%). Five years later after primary treatment, almost the whole respondents (94.6%) themselves monitored their patients. CONCLUSION: A majority of respondents have been performed more intensive follow-up modalities in comparison with present guidelines and less frequently screenings for secondary malignancy. For optimal follow-up of breast cancer survivors, tailored delivery system should be considered.
