Improving Adherence to Recommended Surveillance in Breast Cancer Survivors

Improving Adherence to Recommended Surveillance in Breast Cancer Survivors

Evidence-based guidelines recommend cancer surveillance procedures for breast cancer survivors including physical examination, mammography, breast self-exam, and gynecologic follow-up. The early detection of recurrent and new cancers can best be achieved through the combined, on schedule use of these surveillance procedures. Yet, data suggest that up to 55% of breast cancer survivors do not undergo these procedures as recommended. This study tests a telephone-based psychosocial intervention aimed at improving adherence to recommended surveillance in breast cancer survivors. The psychosocial intervention for improving adherence is compared to treatment as usual.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 21 years of age or older
• Diagnosis of Stage I to IIIA breast cancer
• Within 1 to 5 years post primary cancer treatment (i.e., surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy)
• No diagnosis of recurrent breast cancer or a new primary cancer
• Able to provide meaningful consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• < 21 years of age
• Unable to provide meaningful consent
• Surgically treated with bilateral mastectomy