Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in women with breast cancer: trends, predictors, and areas for future research

Second Primary Breast Cancer in Young Breast Cancer Survivors

Importance

Among women diagnosed with primary breast cancer (BC) at or younger than age 40 years, prior data suggest that their risk of a second primary BC (SPBC) is higher than that of women who are older when they develop a first primary BC.

Objective

To estimate cumulative incidence and characterize risk factors of SPBC among young patients with BC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Participants were enrolled in the Young Women's Breast Cancer Study, a prospective study of 1297 women aged 40 years or younger who were diagnosed with stage 0 to III BC from August 2006 to June 2015. Demographic, genetic testing, treatment, and outcome data were collected by patient surveys and medical record review. A time-to-event analysis was used to account for competing risks when determining cumulative incidence of SPBC, and Fine-Gray subdistribution hazard models were used to evaluate associations between clinical factors and SPBC risk. Data were analyzed from January to May 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The 5- and 10- year cumulative incidence of SPBC.

Results

In all, 685 women with stage 0 to III BC (mean [SD] age at primary BC diagnosis, 36 [4] years) who underwent unilateral mastectomy or lumpectomy as the primary surgery for BC were included in the analysis. Over a median (IQR) follow-up of 10.0 (7.4-12.1) years, 17 patients (2.5%) developed an SPBC; 2 of these patients had cancer in the ipsilateral breast after lumpectomy. The median (IQR) time from primary BC diagnosis to SPBC was 4.2 (3.3-5.6) years. Among 577 women who underwent genetic testing, the 10-year risk of SPBC was 2.2% for women who did not carry a pathogenic variant (12 of 544) and 8.9% for carriers of a pathogenic variant (3 of 33). In multivariate analyses, the risk of SPBC was higher among PV carriers vs noncarriers (subdistribution hazard ratio [sHR], 5.27; 95% CI, 1.43-19.43) and women with primary in situ BC vs invasive BC (sHR, 5.61; 95% CI, 1.52-20.70).

Conclusions

Findings of this cohort study suggest that young BC survivors without a germline pathogenic variant have a low risk of developing a SPBC in the first 10 years after diagnosis. Findings from germline genetic testing may inform treatment decision-making and follow-up care considerations in this population.

Breast Reconstruction Use and Impact on Surgical and Oncologic Outcomes Amongst Inflammatory Breast Cancer Patients-A Systematic Review

Breast reconstruction is generally discouraged in women with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) due to concerns with recurrence and poor long-term survival. We aim to determine contemporary trends and predictors of breast reconstruction and its impact on oncologic outcomes among women with IBC. A systematic literature review for all studies published up to 15 September 2022 was conducted via MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Studies comparing women diagnosed with IBC undergoing a mastectomy with or without breast reconstruction were evaluated. The initial search yielded 225 studies, of which nine retrospective cohort studies, reporting 2781 cases of breast reconstruction in 29,058 women with IBC, were included. In the past two decades, immediate reconstruction rates have doubled. Younger age, higher income (>USD 25,000), private insurance, metropolitan residence, and bilateral mastectomy were associated with immediate reconstruction. No significant difference was found in overall survival, breast cancer-specific survival or recurrence rates between women undergoing versus not undergoing (immediate or delayed) reconstruction. There is a paucity of data on delayed breast reconstruction following IBC. Immediate breast reconstruction may be a consideration for select patients with IBC, although prospective data is needed to clarify its safety.

Contemporary Trends in Breast Reconstruction Use and Impact on Survival Among Women with Inflammatory Breast Cancer

BACKGROUND

Breast reconstruction is generally discouraged in women with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). Nevertheless, reconstruction rates are increasing in this population.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine contemporary trends and predictors of breast reconstruction use and its impact on mortality among IBC patients.

METHODS

Demographic, clinicopathologic, and follow-up data for women with non-metastatic IBC having mastectomy between 2004 and 2015 were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 18 registries database. Rates and predictors of immediate breast reconstruction, along with survival outcomes between the breast reconstruction and no reconstruction groups were calculated. To account for selection bias, a propensity score analysis matching one reconstruction patient to three no reconstruction patients was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 4076 women with non-metastatic IBC who underwent mastectomy (388 [9.5%] with breast reconstruction and 3688 [90.5%] without) were included. The proportion of women undergoing breast reconstruction and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy increased from 6.2 to 15.3% and 12.9 to 29.6%, respectively, between 2004 and 2015. Younger age, higher annual income, metropolitan residence, and bilateral mastectomy predicted breast reconstruction use. The 10-year breast cancer-specific survival was 62.9% for women having breast reconstruction and 47.6% for women not having breast reconstruction. After propensity-matched analysis, 10-year cancer-specific survival was similar between the reconstruction (56.6%) and no reconstruction (62.2%) groups (adjusted hazard ratio 0.96, 95% confidence interval 0.79-1.16; p = 0.65).

CONCLUSIONS

Breast reconstruction rates continue to rise among IBC patients, particularly young women and women with access to reconstruction. Breast reconstruction is not associated with inferior breast cancer-specific survival and can be an option for select patients.

Functional and Psychosocial Outcomes following Innervated Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

With the incidence of breast cancer, breast cancer survival rates, and prophylactic mastectomies all increasing, efforts to optimize breast reconstruction and improve quality of life are becoming increasingly important. Nerve coaptation has been investigated for its potential to remedy the clinical and psychosocial deficits in newly reconstructed breasts. The purpose of this review is to gauge the efficacy of nerve coaptation during breast reconstruction in creating worthwhile benefits in both objective and subjective dimensions of sensation.

METHODS

A Prospero registered systematic review was conducted. Databases including PubMed, SCOPUS, and ScienceDirect were screened using search terms "innervation," "breast reconstruction," and "neurotization" and relevant inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Twenty-three studies were found that met parameters for inclusion. We identified studies that assessed DIEP-based reconstruction (7), TRAM-based reconstruction (9), implant-based reconstruction (2), and five studies that looked at a variety of reconstructive modalities. Monofilament testing was the most common modality used to assess sensation, while pain, temperature, and pressure thresholds were assessed more infrequently. Various tools were used to measure psychosocial impacts, including the BREAST-Q. While the methods for evaluation of both aspects of sensation were heterogenous, there was a trend towards improved outcomes with neurotization.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this review show promising improvements in clinical and psychosocial outcomes in innervated breasts compared to non-innervated breasts. However, the heterogeneity of studies in the literature indicates that more multi-center studies with standardized methodology including the BREAST-Q, sensory testing and complication analysis are needed to adequately demonstrate the value of neurotization in breast reconstruction.

Controversies in Breast Cancer Surgery

Breast surgical oncology is a rapidly evolving field with significant advances shaped by practice-changing research. Three areas of ongoing controversy are (1) high rates of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) in the United States despite uncertain benefit, (2) indications for and use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and endocrine therapy (NET), and (3) staging and treatment of the axilla, particularly after neoadjuvant systemic therapy. We discuss the patient populations for whom CPM may or may not be beneficial, indications for NACT and NET, and the trend toward de-escalation of locoregional axillary treatment.

Association of Clinical Complications of Chemotherapy and Patient-Reported Outcomes After Immediate Breast Reconstruction

Importance

Women undergoing immediate breast reconstruction often require chemotherapy. The effects of chemotherapy on reconstruction are not well described.

Objective

To evaluate the association of neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy with complications and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in immediate reconstruction.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Mastectomy Reconstruction Outcomes Consortium Study is a cohort study that prospectively assessed PROs and retrospectively evaluated complications in patients undergoing immediate implant-based or autologous reconstruction at 11 centers from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2017. Women 18 years or older undergoing immediate reconstruction after mastectomy with 2 years of follow-up were included. Patients were excluded if they had prophylactic mastectomy; delayed reconstruction; mixed-timing reconstruction; mixed reconstruction; a latissimus dorsi, superior gluteal artery perforator, or inferior gluteal artery perforator flap; or both neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy. Data were analyzed from May 1 to June 30, 2018.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Complications and PROs (satisfaction with breast and physical, psychosocial, and sexual well-being) using the BREAST-Q questionnaire, a validated, condition-specific PRO measure. Baseline patient characteristics were collected.

Results

A total of 1881 women were included in the analysis (mean [SD] age, 49.9 [9.9] years). Of these, 1373 (73.0%) underwent implant-based procedures; 508 (27.0%), autologous reconstruction; 200 (10.6%), neoadjuvant chemotherapy; 668 (35.5%), adjuvant chemotherapy; and 1013 (53.9%), no chemotherapy. Patients without chemotherapy were significantly older (mean [SD] age, 51.6 [9.4] years; P < .001), and patients with chemotherapy were more likely to have received radiotherapy (108 of 200 [54.0%] for neoadjuvant chemotherapy and 321 of 668 [48.1%] for adjuvant chemotherapy; P < .001). Among the cohort undergoing implant-based reconstruction, the rates of any complication were significantly different, with higher rates seen for adjuvant (153 of 490 [31.2%]) and neoadjuvant (44 of 153 [28.8%]) chemotherapy compared with no chemotherapy (176 of 730 [24.1%]; P = .02). On multivariable analysis, these differences were not statistically significant. For autologous reconstruction, no significant differences in complications were observed. Controlling for clinical covariates, no significant differences were seen across chemotherapy groups for the BREAST-Q subscales except for sexual well-being in the implant cohort, in which adjuvant chemotherapy had significantly lower scores (β, -4.97 [95% CI, -8.68 to -1.27]; P = .009).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, neither neoadjuvant nor adjuvant chemotherapy was associated with the likelihood of complications in patients undergoing implant-based or autologous reconstruction, and chemotherapy was not associated with patient satisfaction with reconstruction or psychosocial well-being. This information can help patients and clinicians make informed decisions about breast reconstruction in the setting of chemotherapy.

Association of Breast Cancer Surgery With Quality of Life and Psychosocial Well-being in Young Breast Cancer Survivors

Importance

Young women with breast cancer are increasingly choosing bilateral mastectomy (BM), yet little is known about short-term and long-term physical and psychosocial well-being following surgery in this population.

Objective

To evaluate the differential associations of surgery with quality of life (QOL) and psychosocial outcomes from 1 to 5 years following diagnosis.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Cohort study.

Setting

Multicenter, including academic and community hospitals in North America.

Participants

Women age ≤40 when diagnosed with Stage 0-3 with unilateral breast cancer between 2006 and 2016 who had surgery and completed QOL and psychosocial assessments.

Exposures (for observational studies)

Primary breast surgery including breast-conserving surgery (BCS), unilateral mastectomy (UM), and BM.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Physical functioning, body image, sexual health, anxiety and depressive symptoms were assessed in follow-up.

Results

Of 826 women, mean age at diagnosis was 36.1 years; most women were White non-Hispanic (86.7%). Regarding surgery, 45% had BM, 31% BCS, and 24% UM. Of women who had BM/UM, 84% had reconstruction. While physical functioning, sexuality, and body image improved over time, sexuality and body image were consistently worse (higher adjusted mean scores) among women who had BM vs BCS (body image: year 1, 1.32 vs 0.64; P < .001; year 5, 1.19 vs 0.48; P < .001; sexuality: year 1, 1.66 vs 1.20, P < .001; year 5, 1.43 vs 0.96; P < .001) or UM (body image: year 1, 1.32 vs 1.15; P = .06; year 5, 1.19 vs 0.96; P = .02; sexuality: year 1, 1.66 vs 1.41; P = .02; year 5, 1.43 vs 1.09; P = .002). Anxiety improved across groups, but adjusted mean scores remained higher among women who had BM vs BCS/UM at 1 year (BM, 7.75 vs BCS, 6.94; P = .005; BM, 7.75 vs UM, 6.58; P = .005), 2 years (BM, 7.47 vs BCS, 6.18; P < .001; BM, 7.47 vs UM, 6.07; P < .001) and 5 years (BM, 6.67 vs BCS, 5.91; P = .05; BM, 6.67 vs UM, 5.79; P = .05). There were minimal between-group differences in depression levels in follow-up.

Conclusions and Relevance

While QOL improves over time, young breast cancer survivors who undergo more extensive surgery have worse body image, sexual health, and anxiety compared with women undergoing less extensive surgery. Ensuring young women are aware of the short-term and long-term effects of surgery and receive support when making surgical decisions is warranted.

Awareness and Acceptability of Breast Reconstruction Among Women With Breast Cancer: A Prospective Survey

PURPOSE

Quality of life has become an integral aspect of the management of breast cancer. Many women still need to undergo a modified radical mastectomy (MRM). Factors affecting the choice a woman makes to undergo breast reconstruction (BR) are unclear and are hypothesized to be influenced by socioeconomic factors. We conducted a survey to evaluate the awareness and acceptability of BR among women with breast cancer at our institution.

METHODS

A novel questionnaire was designed and served to 3 groups of women: planned for MRM, follow up (FU) post-MRM, and FU post breast-conserving surgery.

RESULTS

Responses were analyzed from 492 women. Of these, 280 (56.91%) were planned for MRM and 212 (43.08%) women were on FU. Almost 45% women were older than 50 years of age, and literacy rate was 87.6%. More than 70% were homemakers and 15 women (3%) were unmarried. The aspects evaluating awareness of BR suggested that 251 (51.01%) women had knowledge about BR. Major source of information was the surgeon (45.81%) and media (32.87%). About 80% women on FU post-MRM did not want reconstruction, and 55% did not opt for BR as they had coped with the mastectomy and did not feel the need for BR. Only 6% cited family or financial reasons and 10% cited recurrence concerns. Among women planned for surgery, 65.71% had not considered BR. When questioned, 25 (12.88%) felt influenced by cost, 102 (52.58%) felt they did not need it, and 20 (10.31%) were worried it would affect treatment.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows high awareness regarding BR, but only 27.89% women opt for BR independent of economic issues. We recommend all patients should be counseled about the reconstructive options when their MRM is planned.

Striving to Do No Harm and Yet Respect Patient Autonomy: Plastic Surgeons' Perspectives of the Consultation for Breast Reconstruction with Women Who Have Early-Stage Breast Cancer

BACKGROUND

Rates of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) have doubled over the last decade among women considered low risk for developing contralateral breast cancer. Despite the strong association between CPM and breast reconstruction, little is known about the clinical encounter between patients and plastic surgeons. A qualitative study was performed to understand how plastic surgeons describe their roles in the treatment decision-making process through their consultations with women who have unilateral early-stage breast cancer.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews with Ontario plastic surgeons were conducted. An inductive and interpretive thematic approach was initially used to analyze the data. The four principles of biomedical ethics then served as the conceptual lens to interpret the findings.

RESULTS

The participants in this study were 18 plastic surgeons, and data saturation was reached. Four themes were identified: maintaining non-maleficence, supporting patient autonomy, delivering (un)equal health care, and providing care to enhance well-being. The ongoing push-pull between competing ethical principles was the overarching theme, specifically, striving to balance parallel responsibilities to do no harm while also respecting patients' rights to make their own healthcare decisions.

CONCLUSIONS

In this patient-centric climate, it is important to acknowledge that patients may value outcomes such as achieving greater peace of mind above other clinical factors and are willing to incur additional risks to achieve these goals. Shared decision-making will help to reveal the rationale underlying each individual's treatment choice, which in turn will allow physicians to appropriately weigh patient requests with the best available medical evidence when counseling women on decision-making for breast cancer care.

Social Network, Surgeon, and Media Influence on the Decision to Undergo Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy

OBJECTIVES

The rate of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) has risen sharply in the past decade. The current study was designed to examine social network, surgeon, and media influence on patients' CPM decision-making, examining not only who influenced the decision, and to what extent, but also the type of influence exerted.

METHODS

Patients (N=113) who underwent CPM at 4 Indiana University-affiliated hospitals between 2008 and 2012 completed structured telephone interviews in 2013. Questions addressed the involvement and influence of the social network (family, friends, and nonsurgeon health professionals), surgeon, and media on the CPM decision.

RESULTS

Spouses, children, family, friends, and health professionals were reported as exerting a meaningful degree of influence on patients' decisions, largely in ways that were positive or neutral toward CPM. Most surgeons were regarded as providing options rather than encouraging or discouraging CPM. Media influence was present, but limited.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who choose CPM do so with influence and support from members of their social networks. Reversing the increasing choice of CPM will require educating these influential others, which can be accomplished by encouraging patients to include them in clinical consultations, and by providing patients with educational materials that can be shared with their social networks. Surgeons need to be perceived as having an opinion, specifically that CPM should be reserved for those patients for whom it is medically indicated.

Growing Trends of Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy and Reconstruction in Young Breast Cancer

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the trends of surgical treatments among young patients in T₁N_0-1M₀ stage based on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients aged less than 40 y diagnosed between 1998 and 2015 were enrolled, with tumors in T₁N_0-1M₀ stage and not located in the central area. Differences in clinical-pathological characteristics were evaluated using chi-square tests. Multivariate logistic regression was used to measure the various factors associated with contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM). Independent prognostic factors were evaluated by Cox model.

RESULTS

The total rate of breast-conserving surgery (BCS) was 51.6%, which declined from 64.5% in 1998 to 39.6% in 2015. The total rate of CPM was 22.7%, which increased from 3.7% in 1998 to 38.7% in 2014 despite a decline to 32.7% in 2015. Meanwhile, the rate of reconstruction increased in line with that of CPM, from 9.4% in 1998 to 35.0% in 2015. There was a trend of increasing use of implant-based reconstruction. Significant higher odds of CPM were found in recent year of diagnosis between 2010 and 2015 and in implant-based reconstruction. Patients undergoing CPM had similar survival outcomes compared with those undergoing BCS and unilateral mastectomy, whereas those undergoing BCS had better survival outcomes compared with those undergoing unilateral mastectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

A trend of growing preference for CPM and reconstruction was observed among young patients in early stage in recent years without survival benefits. Efforts should be made to promote efficient communication and evidence-based decision-making.

Risk factors for metachronous contralateral breast cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The risk of developing metachronous contralateral breast cancer (CBC) is a recurrent topic at the outpatient clinic. We aimed to provide CBC risk estimates of published patient, pathological, and primary breast cancer (PBC) treatment-related factors.

METHODS

PubMed was searched for publications on factors associated with CBC risk. Meta-analyses were performed with grouping of studies by mutation status (i.e., BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2 c.1100delC), familial cohorts, and general population-based cohorts.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight papers satisfied our inclusion criteria. Strong associations with CBC were found for carrying a BRCA1 (RR = 3.7; 95%CI:2.8-4.9), BRCA2 (RR = 2.8; 95%CI:1.8-4.3) or CHEK2 c.1100delC (RR = 2.7; 95%CI:2.0-3.7) mutation. In population-based cohorts, PBC family history (RR = 1.8; 95%CI:1.2-2.6), body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m² (RR = 1.5; 95%CI:1.3-1.9), lobular PBC (RR = 1.4; 95%CI:1.1-1.8), estrogen receptor-negative PBC (RR = 1.5; 95%CI:1.0-2.3) and treatment with radiotherapy <40 years (RR = 1.4; 95%CI:1.1-1.7) was associated with increased CBC risk. Older age at PBC diagnosis (RR per decade = 0.93; 95%CI:0.88-0.98), and treatment with chemotherapy (RR = 0.7; 95%CI:0.6-0.8) or endocrine therapy (RR = 0.6; 95%CI:0.5-0.7) were associated with decreased CBC risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Mutation status, family history, and PBC treatment are key factors for CBC risk. Age at PBC diagnosis, BMI, lobular histology and hormone receptor status have weaker associations and should be considered in combination with key factors to accurately predict CBC risk.

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy in young women with breast cancer: a population-based analysis of predictive factors and clinical impact

Background and Objectives

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (cpm) has been increasingly common among women with unilateral invasive breast cancer (ibca) even though the data that support it are limited. Using a population-based cohort, the objectives of the present study were to describe factors predictive of cpm in young women (≤35 years) with ibca and to evaluate the impact of the procedure on mortality.

Methods

All women diagnosed during 1994-2003 and treated with cpm were identified from the Ontario Cancer Registry. Logistic regression was used to identify patient and tumour factors associated with the use of cpm. Multivariate analyses were used to assess the effect of cpm on recurrence and mortality.

Results

Of 614 women identified, 81 underwent cpm (13.2%). On multivariable analysis, factors associated with cpm included negative lymph node status, negative estrogen receptor status, and initial breast-conserving surgery with re-excision. At follow-up, breast cancer-specific mortality was similar for women who did and did not undergo cpm.

Conclusions

Use of cpm in young women with ibca (compared with non-use) was not associated improved breast cancer-specific mortality. Factors found to be predictive of cpm were negative lymph node status, negative estrogen receptor status, and initial breast-conserving surgery followed by re-excision.

No survival improvement of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy among women with invasive lobular carcinoma

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The prognosis of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) in women with breast cancer has been widely reported. Here, we evaluated the survival outcome among patients with invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) to determine the potential benefit of CPM.

METHODS

We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database to identify patients with ILC diagnosed between 1998 and 2010. Survival differences were compared between unilateral mastectomy and CPM. Propensity score matching and risk-stratified subgroup analyses were conducted to reduce selection bias.

RESULTS

Among 10 226 patients with ILC, 21.8% women underwent CPM, and the rate of CPM nearly tripled over a 13-year period. Kaplan-Meier curves and hazard ratio (HR) of non-breast cancer-specific survival (non-BCSS) in multivariate analysis reflected a pre-existing selection bias in the present cohort. A Cox proportional hazard model confirmed that patients who received CPM had significantly better BCSS and overall survival (OS) in the prematching population (BCSS: HR = 0.90; OS: HR = 0.93). However, the survival improvement could not be achieved in the postmatching cohort. None of the defined subgroups had OS benefits when CPM was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

CPM offers no survival advantage to patients with ILC. The role of CPM among ILC women should be further investigated by incorporating more objective factors.

Patient-reported outcomes of breast reconstruction in older women: Audit of a large metropolitan public/private practice in Sydney, Australia

OBJECTIVE

Older age is associated with lower rates of breast reconstruction (BR) for women requiring mastectomy. This study compared patient-reported outcomes between women aged 60 years and older who had received mastectomy and BR with those who received no BR (NBR).

METHODS

About 135 women aged 60 or over treated between 2009 and 2016 with mastectomy only (N = 87) or mastectomy with BR (N = 48) for primary breast cancer completed patient-reported outcome measures using a set of validated questionnaires. Reasons for choosing or declining BR were also explored using a set of nonvalidated questionnaires.

RESULTS

Patients who received BR were generally younger (P = <0.001) and reported greater satisfaction with their bodies (P = 0.048) than NBR patients. Patients with autologous reconstruction reported greater satisfaction with their breasts than implant-based reconstruction patients. Both BR and NBR patients reported good quality of life, low pain scores, good body image, and low levels of decisional regret.

CONCLUSIONS

These data do not identify any quality of life-related reasons to not offer clinically fit, well-informed older women the option of BR.

Streamlining Decision Making in Contralateral Risk-Reducing Mastectomy: Impact of PREDICT and BOADICEA Computations

Introduction

Patients with sporadic breast cancer (BC) have low contralateral breast cancer risk (CLBCR; approximately 0.7% per annum) and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) offers no survival advantage. CPM with autologous reconstruction (AR) has major morbidity and resource implications.

Objective

The aim of this study was to review the impact of PREDICT survival estimates and lifetime CLBCR scores on decision making for CPM in patients with unilateral BC.

Methods

Of n = 272 consecutive patients undergoing mastectomy and AR, 252 were included. Five- and 10-year survival was computed with the PREDICT(V2) online prognostication tool, using age and clinicopathological factors. Based on family history (FH) and tumor biology, CLBCR was calculated using validated BODICEA web-based software. Survival scores were correlated against CLBCR estimates to identify patients receiving CPM with ‘low’ CLBCR (< 30% lifetime risk) and poor prognosis (5-year survival < 80%). Patients with ‘high’ CLBCR receiving unilateral mastectomy (UM) were similarly identified (UK National Institute of Health and Care Excellence [NICE] criteria for CPM, ≥ 30% lifetime BC risk). Justifications motivating CPM were investigated.

Results

Of 252 patients, 215 had UM and 37 had bilateral mastectomy and AR. Only 23 (62%) patients receiving CPM fulfilled the NICE criteria. Of 215 patients, 5 (2.3%) failed to undergo CPM despite high CLBCR and good prognosis. CPMs were performed, at the patient’s request, for no clear justification (n = 8), contralateral non-invasive disease, and/or FH (n = 5), FH alone (n = 4) and ipsilateral cancer recurrence-related anxiety (n = 3).

Conclusion

In the absence of prospective risk estimates of CLBCR and prognosis, certain patients receive CPM and reconstruction despite modest CLBCR, yet a proportion of patients with good prognoses and substantial risk are not undergoing CPM.

"I don't want to take chances.": A qualitative exploration of surgical decision making in young breast cancer survivors

OBJECTIVE

Young women with unilateral breast cancer are increasingly choosing contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM), despite its limited medical benefit for most women. The purpose of this study was to better understand this choice through a qualitative exploration of surgical decision-making in young survivors, including how issues particular to younger women affected their decision and the post-surgical experience.

METHODS

Women age ≤ 40 years with stage 0 to III breast cancer, 1 to 3 years from diagnosis who had undergone breast cancer surgery were recruited to participate. Four focus groups were conducted: 2 with women who had bilateral mastectomy and 2 with women who kept their contralateral breast. Focus groups were recorded and transcribed with identifiers removed. Emergent themes were identified by thematic content analysis using NVivo 11.

RESULTS

Of the 20 participants, median age at diagnosis was 37 years. Emergent themes were categorized into the following domains: (1) emotions/feelings surrounding surgery/decision about surgery; (2) factors affecting the decision; (3) communication and interaction with the healthcare team; (4) impact on post-surgical life and recovery; and (5) support needs. Young women who chose CPM often were concerned about a future breast event, despite this low risk, suggesting some gain peace of mind by choosing CPM. Young survivors also had many physical and emotional concerns after surgery for which they did not always feel prepared.

CONCLUSIONS

Informational resources and decision aids may enhance patient-doctor communication and help young survivors better understand risk and manage expectations surrounding short and longer-term physical and emotional effects after surgery.

Mastectomy patterns, but not rates, are changing in the treatment of early breast cancer. Experience of a single European institution on 2315 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

Recent literature reports that rates of mastectomy are increasing in early breast cancer. However, data from European institutions are limited and revealed conflicting results. We report on 15-year trends of mastectomy, mastectomy plus immediate reconstruction and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) at an academic institution.

METHODS

We identified women diagnosed with unilateral early breast cancer at stage 0-IIa, with tumour size ≤ 4 cm, between 2002 and 2016. Trends were assessed using the Cochrane-Armitage test. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with receipt of mastectomy plus immediate reconstruction.

RESULTS

A total of 2315 patients were identified. Of them, 65.7% underwent breast conserving surgery (BCS), while 34.3% underwent mastectomy as upfront surgery. Two point four per cent also received CPM. Immediate reconstruction was performed in 36.0% of patients receiving mastectomy. There was no change in trends of mastectomy over the 15 years studied (p = 0.69), as well as in trends of patients undergoing CPM (p = 0.44). In contrast, rates of immediate reconstruction rose significantly over the study period (from 12.2% in 2002 to 62.7% in 2016, p < 0.0001). Women were more likely to receive mastectomy plus immediate reconstruction if they were aged 50 years or younger, or had tumours larger than 2 cm, or had non-invasive carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that rates of both mastectomy and CPM in early breast cancer are not increasing, while use of immediate reconstruction is on the rise.

Sensation of the autologous reconstructed breast improves quality of life: a pilot study

Purpose

The number of breast cancer survivors continues to grow. Due to refinements in operating techniques, autologous breast reconstruction has become part of standard care. Impaired sensation remains a debilitating side effect with a significant impact on the quality of life. Microsurgical nerve coaptation of a sensory nerve has the potential to improve sensation of the reconstructed breast. This study investigates the effect of improved sensation of the reconstructed breast on the quality of life in breast cancer survivors.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed in the Maastricht University Medical Center. Patients undergoing a DIEP flap breast reconstruction between January 2015 and January 2016 were included. The primary outcome was quality of life (BREAST-Q domain ‘physical well-being of the chest’). The Semmes–Weinstein monofilaments were used for objective sensation measurement of the reconstructed breast(s).

Results

Eighteen patients with and 14 patients without nerve coaptation responded. Nipple reconstruction was the only characteristic that differed statistically significant between both groups (p = 0.04). The BREAST-Q score for the domain physical well-being of the chest was 77.89 ± 18.89 on average in patients with nerve coaptation and 66.21 ± 18.26 in patients without nerve coaptation (p = 0.09). Linear regression showed a statistically significant relation between objectively measured sensation and BREAST-Q score for the domain physical well-being of the chest with a regression coefficient of − 13.17 ± 3.61 (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Improved sensation in the autologous reconstructed breast, with the addition of microsurgical nerve coaptation, has a statistical significant positive impact on the quality of life in breast cancer survivors according to the BREAST-Q.

Contralateral Breast Cancer Risk in Women with Ductal Carcinoma In Situ: Is it High Enough to Justify Bilateral Mastectomy?

BACKGROUND

Women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) are increasingly choosing bilateral mastectomy. We sought to quantify rates of contralateral breast cancer (CBC) and ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) for DCIS, and to compare risk factors for CBC and IBTR.

METHODS

From 1978 to 2011, DCIS patients undergoing BCS with a contralateral breast at risk were identified from a prospectively maintained database. The association of clinicopathologic and treatment factors with CBC and IBTR were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis, multivariable Cox regression, and competing risk regression (CRR).

RESULTS

Of 2759 patients identified, 151 developed CBC and 344 developed IBTR. Five- and 10-year Kaplan-Meier CBC rates were 3.2 and 6.4%. Overall, 10-year IBTR rates were 2.5-fold higher than CBC rates, and, without radiation, 4-fold higher. On CRR, 5- and 10-year rates were 2.9 and 5.8% for CBC, and 7.8 and 14.5% for IBTR. CBC risk and invasive CBC risk were not significantly associated with age, family history, presentation, nuclear grade, year of surgery, or radiation. By multivariable Cox regression, endocrine therapy was associated with lower CBC risk (hazard ratio 0.57, p = 0.03). Ten-year risk of subsequent CBC in the subset of patients who developed IBTR was similar to the cohort as a whole (8.1 vs. 6.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

CBC rates were low across all groups, including those who experienced IBTR. CBC was not associated with factors that increase IBTR risk. While factors associated with IBTR risk are important in decision making regarding management of the index DCIS, they are not an indication for contralateral prophylactic mastectomy.

Patient-Reported Outcomes 1 Year After Immediate Breast Reconstruction: Results of the Mastectomy Reconstruction Outcomes Consortium Study

Purpose The goals of immediate postmastectomy breast reconstruction are to minimize deformity and optimize quality of life as perceived by patients. We prospectively evaluated patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in women undergoing immediate implant-based or autologous reconstruction. Methods Women undergoing immediate postmastectomy reconstruction for invasive cancer and/or carcinoma in situ were enrolled at 11 sites. Women underwent implant-based or autologous tissue reconstruction. Patients completed the BREAST-Q, a condition-specific PRO measure for breast surgery patients, and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29, a generic PRO measure, before and 1 year after surgery. Mean changes in PRO scores were summarized. Mixed-effects regression models were used to compare PRO scores across procedure types. Results In total, 1,632 patients (n = 1,139 implant, n = 493 autologous) were included; 1,183 (72.5%) responded to 1-year questionnaires. After analysis was controlled for baseline values, patients who underwent autologous reconstruction had greater satisfaction with their breasts than those who underwent implant-based reconstruction (difference, 6.3; P < .001), greater sexual well-being (difference, 4.5; P = .003), and greater psychosocial well-being (difference, 3.7; P = .02) at 1 year. Patients in the autologous reconstruction group had improved satisfaction with breasts (difference, 8.0; P = .002) and psychosocial well-being (difference, 4.6; P = .047) compared with preoperative baseline. Physical well-being of the chest was not fully restored in either the implant group (difference, -3.8; P = .001) or autologous group (-2.2; P = .04), nor was physical well-being of the abdomen in patients who underwent autologous reconstruction (-13.4; P < .001). Anxiety and depression were mitigated at 1 year in both groups. Compared with their baseline reports, patients who underwent implant reconstruction had decreased fatigue (difference, -1.4; P = .035), whereas patients who underwent autologous reconstruction had increased pain interference (difference, 2.0; P = .006). Conclusion At 1 year after mastectomy, patients who underwent autologous reconstruction were more satisfied with their breasts and had greater psychosocial and sexual well-being than those who underwent implant reconstruction. Although satisfaction with breasts was equal to or greater than baseline levels, physical well-being was not fully restored. This information can help patients better understand expected outcomes and may guide innovations to improve outcomes.

Basic Facts of Breast Cancer in Korea in 2014: The 10-Year Overall Survival Progress

We, the Korean Breast Cancer Society (KBCS), present the facts and the trends of breast cancer in Korea in 2014. Data on the total number of newly diagnosed patients was obtained from the Korea Central Cancer Registry database, other data were collected from the KBCS online registry database, and the overall survival data of patients were updated from Statistics Korea. A total of 21,484 female patients were newly diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014. The crude incidence rate and the age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) of breast cancer in female patients, including carcinoma in situ, were 83.4 cases and 63.9 cases per 100,000 women, respectively. The ASR showed an annual increase of 6.1% from 1999 to 2014; however, although the increase of the ASR had slowed since 2008, the incidence rate itself continuously increased. The proportion of early breast cancer increased consistently, and the pathological features changed accordingly. While breast-conserving surgery was mainly performed, the proportion of total mastectomy was slightly increased. The total number of breast reconstruction surgeries increased rapidly. The 5-year and 10-year overall survival rates for all stages of breast cancer patients were 91.2% and 84.8%, respectively. The overall survival rate of Korean patients with breast cancer was extremely high, compared with other developed countries. Thus, we consider that the clinical characteristics of breast cancer have changed over the past decade. A nationwide registry data will contribute to a better understanding of the characteristics of breast cancer in Korea.

Racial and ethnic variations in one-year clinical and patient-reported outcomes following breast reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Existing studies evaluating racial and ethnic disparities focus on describing differences in procedure type and the proportion of women who undergo reconstruction following mastectomy. This study seeks to examine racial and ethnic variations in clinical and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) following breast reconstruction.

METHODS

The Mastectomy Reconstruction Outcomes Consortium is an 11 center, prospective cohort study collecting clinical and PROs following autologous and implant-based breast reconstruction. Mixed-effects regression models, weighted to adjust for non-response, were performed to evaluate outcomes at one-year postoperatively.

RESULTS

The cohort included 2703 women who underwent breast reconstruction. In multivariable models, Hispanic or Latina patients were less likely to experience any complications and major complications. Black or African-American women reported greater improvements in psychosocial and sexual well-being.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite differences in pertinent clinical and socioeconomic variables, racial and ethnic minorities experienced equivalent or better outcomes. These findings provide reassurance in the context of numerous racial and ethnic health disparities and build upon our understanding of the delivery of surgical care to women with or at risk for developing breast cancer.

Preoperative psychosocial characteristics may predict body image and sexuality two years after risk-reducing mastectomy: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Risk-reducing mastectomy (RRM) in patients at high risk has become more available and the rates of both bilateral (BRRM) and contralateral (CRRM) procedures are increasing. For women opting for RRM, psychosocial well-being, body image and sexuality are known to be important patient-reported outcomes. The aim of the present study was to investigate baseline health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and emotional distress (anxiety and depression) as predictors of body image and sexuality two years after RRM in women undergoing CRRM and BRRM.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study including consecutive women opting for BRRM and breast cancer patients considering CRRM at Karolinska University Hospital during 1998-2010. The women were given a set of questionnaires to be completed at baseline before RRM (The Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form, The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and The Sexual Activity Questionnaire) and two years after RRM (all the above-mentioned questionnaires along with The Body Image Scale). Mean scores for all questionnaires were analysed using linear regression models and adjusted for age at RRM as well as calendar year.

RESULTS

In total, 253 patients consented to participate in the study. Response rate at baseline and 2 years was 88% and 71%, respectively. In the BRRM group (healthy women), preoperative HRQoL and emotional distress were associated with body image and sexual problems two years after the procedure. No similar associations were found for the patients with breast cancer who underwent CRRM.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study suggests that preoperative HRQoL and emotional distress may predict body image and sexual problems two years after RRM in healthy women, but not in breast cancer patients. Baseline psychosocial characteristics may be useful to identify women at risk for long-term body image and sexual problems following BRRM, but not among breast cancer patients opting for CRRM.

Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM): A systematic review of patient reported factors and psychological predictors influencing choice and satisfaction

OBJECTIVE

Conduct a systematic review of quantitative and qualitative studies exploring patient reported factors and psychological variables influencing the decision to have contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM), and satisfaction with CPM, in women with early stage breast cancer.

METHODS

Studies were identified via databases: Medline, CINAHL, Embase and PsycINFO. Data were extracted by one author and crosschecked by two additional authors for accuracy. The quality of included articles was assessed using standardised criteria by three authors.

RESULTS

Of the 1346 unique citations identified, 17 were studies that met the inclusion criteria. Studies included were primarily cross-sectional and retrospective. No study utilised a theoretical framework to guide research and few studies considered psychological predictors of CPM. Fear of breast cancer was the most commonly cited reason for CPM, followed by cosmetic reasons such as desire for symmetry. Overall, women appeared satisfied with CPM, however, adverse/diminished body image, poor cosmetic result, complications, diminished sense of sexuality, emotional issues and perceived lack of education regarding alternative surveillance/CPM efficacy were cited as reasons for dissatisfaction.

CONCLUSION

Current literature has begun to identify patient-reported reasons for CPM; however, the relative importance of different factors and how these factors relate to the process underlying the decision to have CPM are unknown. Of women who considered CPM, limited information is available regarding differences between those who proceed with or ultimately decline CPM.

Considerations arising from requests from patients for a bilateral mastectomy who are eligible for breast-conserving surgery: Factors weighing for and against performing the operation

Rates of mastectomy and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) are increasing in patients with unilateral breast cancer who would be candidates for receiving breast-conserving surgery, according to recent studies. One reason for this finding is the entitlement of patients to choose to undergo a bilateral mastectomy as a surgery option. The present case report details the case of a 52-year-old woman, eligible for breast conservation, who had no high risk of developing a contralateral breast cancer, but who asked for a bilateral mastectomy and immediate reconstruction instead of breast-conserving surgery. The request for a bilateral mastectomy was declined on the basis that it would be unnecessary for the patient, and an excessive intervention; the patient subsequently obtained an independent second opinion, and she underwent a bilateral mastectomy with implant reconstruction prior to receiving wound care and follow-up at our institution. At follow-up 1 year later, the patient complained of sensations of general discomfort, sexual difficulties and a loss of sensation in the nipples. On the basis of the clinical outcomes of the bilateral mastectomy and the patient's experience of the operation, the present case study highlights a need for surgeons to clearly inform patients presenting with unilateral breast cancer about the attendant risks and real benefits of bilateral mastectomy, in order to reach a mutual decision in terms of health care that is not fuelled by anxiety or an overestimation of the risk of developing secondary cancer. Bilateral mastectomy should be attentively evaluated as an option only in patients with a higher-than-average risk of developing contralateral breast cancer.

Higher Stage of Disease Is Associated With Bilateral Mastectomy Among Patients With Breast Cancer: A Population-Based Survey

BACKGROUND

The reasons for increasing rates of bilateral mastectomy for unilateral breast cancer are incompletely understood, and associations of disease stage with bilateral surgery have been inconsistent. We examined associations of clinical and sociodemographic factors, including stage, with surgery type and reconstruction receipt among women with breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We surveyed a diverse population-based sample of women from Northern California cancer registries with stage 0 to III breast cancer diagnosed during 2010-2011 (participation rate, 68.5%). Using multinomial logistic regression, we examined factors associated with bilateral and unilateral mastectomy (vs. breast-conserving surgery), adjusting for tumor and sociodemographic characteristics. In a second model, we examined factors associated with reconstruction for mastectomy-treated patients.

RESULTS

Among 487 participants, 58% had breast-conserving surgery, 32% had unilateral mastectomy, and 10% underwent bilateral mastectomy. In adjusted analyses, women with stage III (vs. stage 0) cancers had higher odds of bilateral mastectomy (odds ratio [OR], 8.28; 95% confidence interval, 2.32-29.50); women with stage II and III (vs. stage 0) disease had higher odds of unilateral mastectomy. Higher (vs. lower) income was also associated with bilateral mastectomy, while age ≥ 60 years (vs. < 50 years) was associated with lower odds of bilateral surgery. Among mastectomy-treated patients (n = 206), bilateral mastectomy, unmarried status, and higher education and income were all associated with reconstruction (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

In this population-based cohort, women with the greatest risk of distant recurrence were most likely to undergo bilateral mastectomy despite a lack of clear medical benefit, raising concern for overtreatment. Our findings highlight the need for interventions to assure women are making informed surgical decisions.

The Basic Facts of Korean Breast Cancer in 2013: Results of a Nationwide Survey and Breast Cancer Registry Database

The Korean Breast Cancer Society (KBCS) has reported a nationwide breast cancer data since 1996. We present a comprehensive report on the facts and trends of breast cancer in Korea in 2013. Data on the newly diagnosed patients in the year 2013 were collected from 99 hospitals by using nationwide questionnaire survey. Clinical characteristics such as stage of cancer, histologic types, biological markers, and surgical management were obtained from the online registry database. A total of 19,316 patients were newly diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. The crude incidence rate of female breast cancer including carcinoma in situ was 76.2 cases per 100,000 women. The median age at diagnosis was 50 years, and the proportions of postmenopausal women with breast cancer accounted for more than half of total patients. The proportion of early breast cancer increased consistently, and the pathologic features have changed accordingly. Breast-conserving surgery was performed in more cases than total mastectomy in the year. The total number of breast reconstruction surgeries markedly increased approaching 3-fold in last 11 years. According to annual percentile change of invasive cancer incidence, the incidence increased rapidly until 2010. And thereafter the increase of it became steadier. For ductal carcinoma in situ, the incidence consistently increased during the same period without any joinpoint. Analysis of nationwide registry data will contribute to defining of the trends and characteristics of breast cancer in Korea.

Why Women Are Choosing Bilateral Mastectomy

The rate of women choosing to have a bilateral mastectomy as a treatment for unilateral breast cancer has increased since the 1990s, particularly among younger women. This article describes a qualitative study that was conducted to explore this decision-making process.

Redefining Risk and Benefit: Understanding the Decision to Undergo Contralateral Prophylactic Mastectomy

Rates of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) among unilateral breast cancer patients are rapidly increasing; however, there are little data documenting the decision-making process of patients with no known BRCA mutations, who elect this more aggressive treatment. We conducted semistructured interviews with nine newly diagnosed patients who elected CPM over other surgical options. Using grounded theory, we analyzed interview data to identify influential decision-making factors by prevalence and intensity across participants. Decision-making factors included subjective evaluations of risk and benefit, avoidance of future breast cancer surveillance and accompanying worry, and desire to maintain (or improve) breast appearance. Based solely on survival benefit, the decision to undergo CPM might be viewed as unnecessary or even misguided. However, our findings show the importance of psychosocial factors in patients' assessments of risk and benefit, and support the need for additional patient-provider communication regarding these factors.

The Basic Facts of Korean Breast Cancer in 2012: Results from a Nationwide Survey and Breast Cancer Registry Database

The Korean Breast Cancer Society has constructed a nationwide breast cancer database through utilization of an online registration program. We have reported the basic facts about breast cancer in Korea in 2012, and analyzed the changing patterns in the clinical characteristics and management of breast cancer in Korea over the last 10 years. Data on patients newly diagnosed with breast cancer were collected for the year 2012 from 97 hospitals and clinics nationwide using a questionnaire survey, and from the online registry database. A total of 17,792 patients were newly diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012. The crude incidence rate of female breast cancer, including invasive cancer and in situ cancer, was 70.7 cases per 100,000 women. The median age at diagnosis was 51 years, and the proportion of postmenopausal women was higher than that of premenopausal women among those diagnosed with breast cancer. The proportion of cases of early breast cancer increased continuously, and breast-conserving surgery was performed in more cases than total mastectomy in that same year. The total number of breast reconstruction surgeries increased approximately 3-fold over last 10 years. The 5-year overall survival rate for all stages of breast cancer patients was extremely high. The clinical characteristics of breast cancer have changed in ways that resulted in high overall survival over the past 10 years in Korea, and the surgical management of the disease has changed accordingly. Analysis of nationwide registry data will contribute to a better understanding of the characteristics of breast cancer in Korea.

Cancer information seeking in the digital age: effects of Angelina Jolie's prophylactic mastectomy announcement

OBJECTIVE

. This study used digital surveillance to examine the impact of Angelina Jolie's prophylactic mastectomy announcement on cancer information seeking.

METHODS

. We analyzed 4 categories of breast cancer-related Internet search queries from 2010 to 2013 in the United States.

RESULTS

. Compared with the preceding 6 weeks, general information queries were 112% (95% confidence interval [CI], 79-146) higher the day of the announcement and remained 35% (95% CI, 22-49) higher over the week after the editorial. Risk assessment queries were 165% (95% CI, 110-222) higher the day of the announcement and 52% (95% CI, 31-75) higher across the week. Genetics and treatment queries showed little volume before the announcement but increased 2154% (95% CI, 1550-7076) and 9900% (95% CI, 3196-1,064,000) the day of, respectively, and remained higher across the week (812% [95% CI, 402-3913] and 2625% [95% CI, 551-317,000]). All query categories returned to normal volumes by the beginning of the second week.

CONCLUSION

. Jolie's unique announcement spurred significant information seeking about breast cancer genetic testing and treatment procedures, although the surge in queries returned to preannouncement levels after 1 week. Future research should apply digital methods to advance our understanding of cancer information seeking in the digital age.

Survival analysis of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy: a question of selection bias

BACKGROUND

Rates of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) in women with breast cancer have increased, but most studies fail to show a survival benefit. We evaluated survival among CPM patients compared to patients undergoing single mastectomy (SM).

METHODS

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database was used to identify unilateral breast cancer patients who underwent mastectomy with/without CPM from 1998 to 2010. Case-control analysis was performed with CPM cases matched to SM controls on the basis of age group, race/ethnicity, extent of surgery, grade, T classification, N classification, estrogen receptor status, and propensity score. Survival analyses included Kaplan-Meier curves and univariate and multivariate proportional hazard models to determine factors associated with disease-specific (DSS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

A total of 26,526 CPM patients were identified. On multivariate regression analysis, increasing age, greater extent of surgery, increasing T and N stage, African American race, Hispanic ethnicity, poorly differentiated grade, and estrogen receptor negativity were associated with increased risk of death. CPM was associated with improved DSS (HR 0.86, 95 % CI 0.79-0.93) and even greater OS (HR 0.76, 95 % CI 0.71-0.81) compared with SM. Contralateral breast cancer (CBC) occurred in 1.6 % of women in the cohort. Removing CBC cases from analysis had little impact on CPM DSS (HR 0.86, 95 % CI 0.79-0.93) and OS (0.77, 95 % CI 0.72-0.82) suggesting that prevention of CBC by CPM does not explain the observed survival benefit.

CONCLUSIONS

CPM rates continue to rise. The improved DSS and OS observed with CPM support selection bias. Prospective trials are needed to determine cohorts of patients most likely to benefit from CPM.

The basic facts of korean breast cancer in 2011: results of a nationwide survey and breast cancer registry database

Breast cancer is the second most frequent malignancy in Korean women, with a continuously increasing incidence. The Korean Breast Cancer Society has constructed a nationwide breast cancer database through an online registration program. The aim of the present study was to report the fundamental facts on Korean breast cancer in 2011, and to analyze the changing patterns in clinical characteristics and breast cancer management in Korea over the last 10 years. Data on newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, including the total number of cases, age, stage, and type of surgery, for the year 2011 were collected from 84 hospitals and clinics nationwide using a questionnaire survey. Additional data relating to the changing patterns of breast cancer in Korea were collected from the online breast cancer registry database and analyzed. According to nationwide survey data, a total of 16,967 patients were newly diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011. The crude incidence of female breast cancer, including invasive cancer and in situ cancer, was 67 cases per 100,000 women. Analysis of the survey and registry data gave equivalent results in terms of age distribution, stage, and type of surgery. The median age at diagnosis was 50 years, and the proportion of postmenopausal women (51.3%) was higher than that of premenopausal women (48.7%) with breast cancer. The incidence of stage 0 and stage I breast cancer increased continuously over the last 10 years (56.3% in 2011), and breast conserving surgery (65.7%) was performed more frequently than total mastectomy (33.8%). The total number of breast reconstruction surgeries increased approximately 8-fold. We conclude that the clinical characteristics of breast cancer have changed over the past 10 years in Korea, and surgical management has changed accordingly. Analysis of nationwide registry data will contribute to a better understanding of the characteristics of breast cancer in Korea.