Ann Surg Treat Res.  2015 Mar;88(3):133-139. 10.4174/astr.2015.88.3.133.

The reality in the follow-up of breast cancer survivors: survey of Korean Breast Cancer Society

• Kim KS
• Kim Z
• Shim EJ
• Kim NH
• Jung SY
• Kim J
• Sohn G
• Lee JW
• Cho J
• Lee JE
• Lee J
• Youn HJ
• Lee J
• Lee MH
• Korean Breast Cancer Society

• KMID: 2266870
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4174/astr.2015.88.3.133

Abstract

PURPOSE
Follow-up after primary treatment for breast cancer is an important component of survivor care and various international guidelines exist for the surveillance. However, little is known about current actual practice patterns of physicians whether they adhere to or deviate from recommended guidelines. The aim of this study was to determine how physicians follow-up their patients after primary treatment for breast cancer in Korea.
METHODS
A questionnaire survey with 34 questions in 4 categories was e-mailed to the members of Korean Breast Cancer Society from November to December 2013. Respondents were asked how they use follow-up modalities after primary treatment of breast cancer and we compared the survey results with present guidelines.
RESULTS
Of the 129 respondents, 123 (95.3%) were breast surgeons. The most important consideration in follow-up was tumor stage. History taking, physical examinations, and mammography were conducted in similar frequency recommended by other guidelines while breast ultrasonography was performed more often. The advanced imaging studies such as CT, MRI, and bone scan, which had been recommended to be conducted only if necessary, were also examined more frequently. Regular screenings for secondary malignancy were performed in 38 respondents (29.5%). Five years later after primary treatment, almost the whole respondents (94.6%) themselves monitored their patients.
CONCLUSION
A majority of respondents have been performed more intensive follow-up modalities in comparison with present guidelines and less frequently screenings for secondary malignancy. For optimal follow-up of breast cancer survivors, tailored delivery system should be considered.

Keyword

Surveillance; Breast neoplasms; Survivors; Guideline

MeSH Terms

Breast
Breast Neoplasms*
Surveys and Questionnaires
Electronic Mail
Follow-Up Studies*
Humans
Korea
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Mammography
Mass Screening
Physical Examination
Survivors*
Ultrasonography, Mammary
Surveys and Questionnaires

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Means to contact medical team of breast cancer survivor.

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