Preferences for Breast Cancer Survivorship Programs Among Multiracial and Ethnic Women

Abstract

Purpose: With advancements in breast cancer treatment, survivorship has increased, leading to 3.8 million survivors in the US. These women have diverse supportive care needs, often addressed through survivorship programs (SPs), which provide clinical and nonclinical support services. SPs aim to deliver a holistic approach to comprehensive breast cancer treatment and recurrence prevention. Historically, disparities in SP utilization exist among minority and elderly women. This study aims to explore trends varying in SP participation by age and race within a single institution.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of breast cancer patients' survivorship needs at a tertiary referral academic cancer center program was conducted. Data were collected from programs between 2019 and 2022, including demographics and referrals to clinical resources such as Adolescent/Young Adult care, Fertility preservation, Palliative care, Psychosocial support, and Survivorship. Participation in nonclinical areas, including Art, Education, Exercise, Mind-Body-Spirit, and Nutrition, was also evaluated. Descriptive statistics summarized patterns based on age, race, and ethnicity.

Results: From 2019 to 2022, 2198 patients attended SPs, with Nutrition and Exercise being the most popular. Most attendees were 60-69 years old and White. Black attendees declined from 9.9% (2019) to 5.7% (2022). Clinical resources showed the highest referral rate to survivorship clinics. Black patients saw an increase in palliative care referrals, rising from 11% to 21%.

Conclusion: Data reveal differences in clinical referrals by age and race, with fewer referrals for older women and more for Black patients. Participation in nonclinical SPs was similar across groups. Future program development will focus on inclusivity and equitable access.

Keywords: Health disparities; Older adults/elderly; Race; Rural and nonmetro populations; Survivor support services.