Patients’ view of routine follow-up after breast cancer treatment

BACKGROUND: To assess emotional distress, anxiety and stress reactions in breast cancer (BC) patients before the follow-up visits. STUDY DESIGN: Between September 2009 and December 2011 a total of 284 patients completed the BC-psychosocial assessment screening scale (PASS) and a questionnaire about their views of follow-up after treatment for BC. RESULTS: Of the patients 64% reported low level of distress on the BC-PASS. The mean scores on the physical well-being scale was 5.3, the satisfaction/sense of coherence scale 7.4, and the emotional distress scale 8.1. Women rated mammography as the most important component (71%), followed by breast ultrasound (63%) and the consultation with the physician (60%). Of the patients 94% were satisfied with the current follow-up regimen. CONCLUSIONS: In this series BC patients were satisfied with their aftercare. Mammography was thought to be the most important component of aftercare. Patient-reported outcomes should be taken into account when planning follow-up.