Improving Quality of Life During Breast Cancer Through Care Team Discussions

CURE partnered with City of Hope for part three of a Breast Cancer Awareness Month webinar series on effective care team communication, particularly focusing on quality of life during breast cancer.

We spoke with Dr. Joan Mortimer, medical oncologist and Baum Family Professor in Women’s Cancers, and Louise Wong, nurse practitioner of medical oncology, both of whom are from City of Hope, to learn more about the importance of discussing side effects and other impacts on quality of life when deciding upon and then undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

Summary:

0:10 — Prioritizing Quality of Life During Breast Cancer Treatment

• Patients receive comprehensive education on treatment plans, potential side effects and medication management strategies. This includes one-on-one sessions with nurses to address specific concerns and build trust.
• The healthcare team emphasizes the importance of managing side effects promptly and provides guidance on medication use. Patients are encouraged to reach out to their healthcare providers for support and additional resources.
• The care team addresses various aspects of patient well-being, including emotional and sexual health. Social work services and specialized programs are available to support patients and their families.

1:45 — Discussing Concerns, Fears and Questions About Treatment

• Menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, are common side effects of breast cancer treatment. Healthcare providers can offer various strategies, including medication and therapy, to alleviate these symptoms and improve quality of life.
• Patients should feel comfortable discussing all side effects with their healthcare team, including those that may be sensitive or embarrassing. Open communication allows for effective management and treatment of these issues.
• Sexual health is an important aspect of overall well-being. Patients should feel comfortable discussing any sexual concerns with their healthcare providers, who can offer advice and treatment options to address issues like vaginal dryness.

5:22 — Resources to Cope With Emotional and Psychological Aspects

• Breast cancer treatment can lead to emotional challenges, such as depression, anxiety and fear of recurrence. Healthcare providers actively assess patients' emotional state and offer support through counseling, therapy and support groups.
• Connecting with other breast cancer survivors can provide invaluable emotional support and understanding. Sharing experiences and coping strategies can help patients feel less alone and more empowered.
• A multidisciplinary approach, involving healthcare providers, social workers and mental health professionals, ensures that patients' physical and emotional needs are addressed throughout their treatment journey.

6:59 — The Post-Treatment Period

• Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of recurrence and improve overall well-being.
• Adhering to recommended follow-up appointments is essential for early detection of any potential recurrence. Patients should not hesitate to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any concerning symptoms or changes.
• While regular check-ups are important, excessive testing, such as frequent imaging studies, is generally not recommended unless there are specific concerns. Patients should discuss their individual needs with their healthcare provider to determine the appropriate frequency of testing.

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