Women's experience of breast conserving treatment for breast cancer

The implementation of the National Breast Screening Programme in the UK, an d subsequent increase in early detection of small cancers, has facilitated breast conserving treatment for more women with a breast cancer diagnosis t han ever before. While a substantial body of literature has evolved regardi ng psychosocial morbidity and support needs of women at diagnosis and durin g treatment, there are specific gaps in the current knowledge base. The pur pose of this study was to describe the experiences of women who had breast conserving treatment for early breast cancer, focusing on issues related to diagnosis, surgery, and radiotherapy. The study was designed within the co ntext of clinical audit, with a view to informing service development. Seve nty-six women who had undergone breast conserving surgery within the last 3 -12 months, completed a self-report questionnaire. Findings indicated that although the majority of women expressed satisfaction with their treatment overall, a number of specific areas require attention from healthcare profe ssionals. Further research is required to validate these findings and to ex plore: potential implications of different referral routes; information and support needs preceding definitive diagnosis; particular needs of those wo men with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) vs, invasive disease; 'end of trea tment' and ongoing information and support needs.