Web-based Screening and Tailored Support

Web-based Screening and Tailored Support for Breast Cancer Patients at the Onset of the Survivorship Phase

The ever expanding breast cancer survivor population urges the health care system to develop (cost-)effective screening and management of convalescent care needs that can be easily implemented in conventional follow-up care. Internet-delivered systems may be well-equipped to meet these demands. The aim of the current study is to assess the effectiveness of a web-based support system. Key features of this system are patient self-screening of physical and psychosocial problems, tailored patient education on reported problems and self-referral to professional care. In this era of high internet usage, we expect that internet is a highly suitable medium to provide tailored support for breast cancer patients and will empower the patient to take control over their convalescence.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult female breast cancer patients (aged ≥ 18 years of age).
• Recent completion (≤6 months) of (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy for primary breast cancer
• Ability to comprehend Dutch (both reading and writing).
• Access to internet (e.g. at home, via family or friends)
• Informed consent provided

Exclusion Criteria:

• Chemotherapy treatment with palliative intent or recurrent breast cancer