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. 2023 Sep;129(S19):3087-3101.
doi: 10.1002/cncr.34634.

Breast cancer survivorship experiences among Black women

Naomi Y Ko  1 , Tsion G Fikre  1 , Anne K Buck  1 , Emily Restrepo  2   3 , Erica T Warner  2   3
Affiliations
Free article

Breast cancer survivorship experiences among Black women

Naomi Y Ko et al. Cancer. 2023 Sep.
Free article

Abstract

Background: Black women experience significant disparities in breast cancer across the care continuum, including survivorship. Ensuring that Black women obtain high-quality follow-up care is critical but understudied. This study was aimed at understanding the experiences and needs of Black women during breast cancer survivorship.

Methods: Black patients diagnosed with invasive breast cancer within the past 5 years were invited to participate in a focus group and complete a survey. Focus groups examined the following: (1) the transition from active treatment to survivorship; (2) interactions with health care providers; (3) survivorship experiences, information needs, and preferences; and (4) existing educational materials. Results were thematically coded and analyzed for main themes. Surveys collected information on sociodemographics, health care experiences, quality of life, lifestyle, and education needs.

Results: The study enrolled 53 participants, 43 of whom completed a survey and participated in one of 11 focus groups. The median age was 54 years, 44% had private insurance, 81% were English speaking, and 86% had completed their treatment more than a year before. Participants identified the importance of relationships with health care providers, gaps in survivorship care, experiences with cancer-related symptoms, challenges with mental health, worry about recurrence, body image, cancer financial toxicity, and coping through religion and spirituality. Unmet needs were centered around preparation for long-term symptoms, diet and physical activity, emotional support, and more explanations of information resources. Participants reported preferences for educational videos, personal stories, and culturally relevant content.

Conclusions: Some Black breast cancer survivors may have specific challenges and preferences. Supportive interventions that address these concerns can be responsive and help to ameliorate disparities.

Keywords: breast cancer; cancer survivorship; racial disparities.

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References

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