Preferences for breast cancer survivorship programs among multiracial and ethnic women.

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 non-clinical 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 the James Comprehensive Cancer Center was conducted. Data were collected from JamesCare for Life programs (2019-2022), including demographics and referrals to clinical resources such as Adolescent/Young Adult care, Fertility preservation, Palliative care, Psychosocial support, and Survivorship. Participation in non-clinical 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 2019-2022, 2,198 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 non-clinical SPs was similar across groups. Future program development will focus on inclusivity and equitable access.