Breast Health: Breast Cancer Survivorship

Abstract

Coordination of the care of breast cancer survivors between oncology subspecialists and family physicians is critical to achieving optimal health outcomes. Care of survivors includes surveillance for breast cancer recurrence, screening for second malignancies, assessment and management of adverse effects of treatment, and promotion of overall wellness. Adverse effects include hot flushes, depression and anxiety, lymphedema, cognitive impairment, neuropathy, decreased bone health, effects on sexual health, and cardiac dysfunction. Survivorship care plans can help guide care coordination among clinicians. Racial and ethnic disparities also affect outcomes for patients with breast cancer; optimization of survivorship interventions may help address these disparities.