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Agnew S, Crawford M, MacPherson I, Shiramizu V, Fleming L. The impact of symptom clusters on endocrine therapy adherence in patients with breast cancer. Breast 2024; 75:103731. [PMID: 38599048 PMCID: PMC11017041 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2024.103731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When taken as prescribed, endocrine therapy is effective in reducing risk of recurrence and mortality in the treatment of patients with breast cancer. However, treatment side effects can act as a barrier to medication adherence. Existing research has not identified any specific side effects as consistent predictors of nonadherence. Our aim was to explore the influence of symptom clusters on self-reported adherence in patients with breast cancer. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey was conducted, including patients with breast cancer currently or previously prescribed endocrine therapy (N = 1051). This included measures of self-reported endocrine therapy adherence and common symptoms among this population (insomnia, depression, anxiety, fatigue, musculoskeletal, and vasomotor symptoms). RESULTS Unintentional nonadherence was higher than intentional nonadherence (50.8 % vs 31.01 %). The most troublesome symptom was insomnia (73.83 % displayed probable insomnia disorder). K-means cluster analysis identified 2 symptom clusters: overall High symptoms, and overall Low symptoms. Participants in the Low symptoms cluster were significantly more likely to be classed as adherent based on unintentional and intentional items. CONCLUSIONS Nonadherence was high in the current sample, and significantly more likely in participants reporting overall severe symptoms. Clinicians should be aware of the scale of common side effects and facilitate open conversation about potential barriers to adherence. Follow-up care should include assessment of common symptoms and signpost patients to appropriate support or treatment when required. Future research should explore potential for a central symptom to act as a target for intervention, to relieve overall side effect burden and facilitate better medication adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sommer Agnew
- University of Strathclyde, 16 Richmond St, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, Scotland, UK.
| | - Megan Crawford
- University of Strathclyde, 16 Richmond St, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, Scotland, UK.
| | | | - Victor Shiramizu
- University of Strathclyde, 16 Richmond St, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, Scotland, UK.
| | - Leanne Fleming
- University of Strathclyde, 16 Richmond St, Glasgow, G1 1XQ, Scotland, UK.
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Long Y, Xie S, Liu Q, Xu F, Li Q, Wang N, Zhang Y. The experiences of adjuvant endocrine therapy for women breast cancer survivors: A literature review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e36704. [PMID: 38134074 PMCID: PMC10735117 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) is commonly recommended for non-metastatic breast cancer survivors. However, the side-effects associated with AET can have a negative impact on survivors' functional status and quality of life. Understanding the factors influencing adherence to AET is crucial in improving its utilization among female breast cancer survivors. CONCLUSIONS This literature review critically evaluated 15 articles to explore the experiences of female breast cancer survivors in adhering to and persisting with AET. The findings highlight that while AET can cause drug side-effects, the involvement of healthcare professionals (HCP) plays a significant role in facilitating better use of AET. Unfortunately, many HCP fail to discuss vital information related to AET or provide guidance on managing side-effects and daily medication. Consequently, survivors often lack guidance in these areas. Despite experiencing discomfort, survivors maintain a positive attitude towards using AET and employ self-management strategies and social networks to overcome barriers. The impact of HCP on AET adherence among female breast cancer survivors is substantial. Future research should focus on understanding perspectives that promote HCP involvement, which will inform practical intervention strategies in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Long
- Department of Oncology, Deyang people’s hospital, Deyang, China
| | - Shaoju Xie
- Department of Oncology, Deyang people’s hospital, Deyang, China
| | - Qinghua Liu
- Department of Oncology, Deyang people’s hospital, Deyang, China
| | - Fan Xu
- Department of Oncology, Deyang people’s hospital, Deyang, China
| | - Qiao Li
- Department of Oncology, Deyang people’s hospital, Deyang, China
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Oncology, Deyang people’s hospital, Deyang, China
| | - Youcai Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Deyang people’s hospital, Deyang, China
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3
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Janssen AM, Dam J, Prins J, Buffart LM, de Bruin M. Systematic adaptation of the adherence improving self-management strategy to support breast cancer survivors' adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy: An intervention mapping approach. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2022; 31:e13721. [PMID: 36263723 PMCID: PMC9787620 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.13721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Non-adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) for breast cancer leads to increased recurrence and mortality risk and healthcare costs. Evidence on feasible, effective AET adherence interventions is scarce. This paper describes the systematic adaptation of the cost-effective adherence improving self-management strategy (AIMS) for patients with HIV to AET for women after breast cancer treatment. METHODS We followed the intervention mapping protocol for adapting interventions by conducting a needs assessment, reviewing target behaviours and determinants, reassessing behaviour change methods and adapting programme content. Therefore, we performed a literature review, consulted behavioural theory and organised nine advisory board meetings with patients and healthcare professionals. RESULTS Non-adherence occurs frequently among AET users. Compared to HIV treatment, AET is less effective, and AET side effects are more burdensome. This drives AET treatment discontinuation. However, the key determinants of non-adherence are largely similar to HIV treatment (e.g. motivation, self-regulation and patient-provider relationship); therefore, most strategies in AIMS-HIV also seem suitable for AIMS-AET. Modifications were required, however, regarding supporting patients with coping with side effects and sustaining treatment motivation. CONCLUSION AIMS seems to be a suitable framework for adherence self-management across conditions and treatments. Intervention mapping offered a transparent, systematic approach to adapting AIMS-HIV to AET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M. Janssen
- Department of IQ Health, Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Joëlle Dam
- Department of IQ Health, Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Judith Prins
- Department of Medical Psychology, Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Laurien M. Buffart
- Department of Physiology, Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Marijn de Bruin
- Department of IQ Health, Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
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4
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Fleming L, Agnew S, Peddie N, Crawford M, Dixon D, MacPherson I. The impact of medication side effects on adherence and persistence to hormone therapy in breast cancer survivors: A quantitative systematic review. Breast 2022; 64:63-84. [PMID: 35609380 PMCID: PMC9130570 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hormone Therapy (HT) is recommended for most women with HR-positive primary breast cancer. When taken as intended, HT reduces breast cancer recurrence by 40% and mortality by one-third. The recommended duration of treatment ranges from 5 to 10 years depending on risk of recurrence and the specific HT regimen. However, recent data indicates that rates of HT non-adherence are high and research suggests this may be due to the impact of HT side effects. The contribution of side effects to non-adherence and non-persistence behaviours has rarely been systematically explored, thereby hindering the implementation of targeted intervention strategies. Our aim is to identify, evaluate and summarise the relationship between HT side effects and patterns of adherence and persistence. METHODS Electronic searches were conducted from inception and were completed by September 2021, utilising Cochrane CENTRAL, Medline, Embase, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases. Searches included a combination of terms related to breast cancer, adherence, hormone therapy and side effects. RESULTS Sixty-two eligible papers were identified and study quality varied by study type. Most observational and cross-sectional studies were rated good quality, whereas most controlled intervention studies were rated fair quality. Three studies were rated poor quality. The most frequently measured side effects were pain, low mood, hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety, fatigue, weight gain, concentration/memory problems. CONCLUSIONS This review identified a lack of consistency in the measurement of adherence and the definition of persistence across studies. The instruments used to measure side effects also varied significantly. This variation and lack of consistency makes it difficult to evaluate and summarise the role of HT side effects in HT adherence and persistence behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sommer Agnew
- University of Strathclyde, George Street, Glasgow, UK
| | - Nicola Peddie
- University of Strathclyde, George Street, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Diane Dixon
- University of Aberdeen, Kings College, Aberdeen, UK
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5
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Ibrar M, Peddie N, Agnew S, Diserholt A, Fleming L. Breast Cancer Survivors' Lived Experience of Adjuvant Hormone Therapy: A Thematic Analysis of Medication Side Effects and Their Impact on Adherence. Front Psychol 2022; 13:861198. [PMID: 35602711 PMCID: PMC9120958 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.861198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Side effects from Hormone Therapy (HT) impact medication adherence in breast cancer survivors. Understanding the most distressing HT side effects and their impacts may inform the development and implementation of interventions to alleviate these side effects and maximise HT adherence. This study aimed to explore the lived experience of adjuvant HT and understand the impact of HT side effects on adherence in a sample of breast cancer survivors. Methods Twenty-five female breast cancer survivors who were currently taking adjuvant HT participated in the study. One-to-one, online, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore (i) specific side effects from HT and (ii) the impact of these side effects on HT adherence. Data were analysed using Thematic Analysis. Results The most commonly reported side effects were sleep disturbance, hot flashes, anxiety, and joint pain. Data exploring the impacts of these side effects on HT adherence were thematically synthesised into four analytical themes: "A bitter pill to swallow," "Seeking relief," "Taking control," and "The only way out is through." These themes encompass 14 sub-themes that encapsulate participants' daily struggle with HT side effects and the coping strategies developed to manage these. Conclusion Adverse side effects from HT, such as sleep disturbance, hot flashes, pain and anxiety, impair quality of life and increase the likelihood of participants' becoming non-adherent to HT medication. In order to maximise HT adherence and reduce breast cancer mortality, HT side effects should be closely monitored to identify individuals who would benefit from targetted intervention strategies aimed at alleviating these side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ibrar
- School of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola Peddie
- School of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Sommer Agnew
- School of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda Diserholt
- School of Psychology and Life Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Leanne Fleming
- School of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Dang TH, Forkan ARM, Wickramasinghe N, Jayaraman PP, Alexander M, Burbury K, Schofield P. Investigation of intervention solutions to enhance adherence to oral anti-cancer medicines in adults: an overview of reviews (Preprint). JMIR Cancer 2021; 8:e34833. [PMID: 35475978 PMCID: PMC9096640 DOI: 10.2196/34833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adherence to anticancer medicines is critical for the success of cancer treatments; however, nonadherence remains challenging, and there is limited evidence of interventions to improve adherence to medicines in patients with cancer. Objective This overview of reviews aimed to identify and summarize available reviews of interventions to improve adherence to oral anticancer medicines in adult cancer survivors. Methods A comprehensive search of 7 electronic databases was conducted by 2 reviewers who independently conducted the study selection, quality assessment using the A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2, and data extraction. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 checklist was adapted to report the results. Results A total of 29 reviews were included in the narrative synthesis. The overall quality of the systematic reviews was low. The 4 main strategies to promote adherence were focused on education, reminders, behavior and monitoring, and multicomponent approaches. Digital technology–based interventions were reported in most reviews (27/29, 93%). A few interventions applied theories (10/29, 34%), design frameworks (2/29, 7%), or engaged stakeholders (1/29, 3%) in the development processes. The effectiveness of interventions was inconsistent between and within reviews. However, interventions using multiple strategies to promote adherence were more likely to be effective than single-strategy interventions (12/29, 41% reviews). Unidirectional communication (7/29, 24% reviews) and technology alone (11/29, 38% reviews) were not sufficient to demonstrate improvement in adherence outcomes. Nurses and pharmacists played a critical role in promoting patient adherence to oral cancer therapies, especially with the support of digital technologies (7/29, 24% reviews). Conclusions Multicomponent interventions are potentially effective in promoting patient adherence to oral anticancer medicines. The seamless integration of digital solutions with direct clinical contacts is likely to be effective in promoting adherence. Future research for developing comprehensive digital adherence interventions should be evidence-based, theory-based, and rigorously evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thu Ha Dang
- Department of Psychology, School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Department of Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Digital Health Cooperative Research Centre, Sydney, Australia
| | - Abdur Rahim Mohammad Forkan
- Digital Innovation Lab, School of Science, Computing and Engineering Technologies, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nilmini Wickramasinghe
- Department Health and Bio Statistics, School of Health Sciences and Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
- Epworth Healthcare, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Prem Prakash Jayaraman
- Digital Innovation Lab, School of Science, Computing and Engineering Technologies, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marliese Alexander
- Pharmacy Department, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kate Burbury
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Digital and Healthcare Innovation, Peter McCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Penelope Schofield
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Department of Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Psychology, and Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia
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7
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Brief relaxation training is associated with long-term endocrine therapy adherence among women with breast cancer: post hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 190:79-88. [PMID: 34410568 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06361-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite life-saving potential, many women struggle to adhere to adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) for their breast cancer (BCa). Prior research has demonstrated that emotional distress is a barrier to AET adherence. We followed women from a trial to test the long-term effects of two 5-week post-surgical group-based stress management interventions, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and relaxation training versus an attention-matched health education control, on AET adherence. METHODS We conducted a long-term follow-up (median = 8 years) of women randomized to CBT, relaxation training, or health education after surgery for stage 0-3 BCa. We measured adherence with the Endocrine Therapy Medication Usage Questionnaire (ETMUQ). First, we established factors on the ETMUQ via confirmatory factor analysis. We then used Bayesian structural equation modeling to regress these factors on study arm, controlling for age and treatments received. RESULTS Of those who completed long-term follow-up (n = 59, 44.7%), over half (n = 33; 55.9%) reported problems with adherence generally. Women receiving relaxation training (n = 15) had better adherence than those receiving health education (n = 24) on the Forgetfulness/Inconsistency [B(SE) = 0.25(0.14), p = 0.049] and Intentional Nonadherence [B(SE) = 0.31(0.14), p = 0.018] factors of the ETMUQ. Similar results were observed for those receiving relaxation training compared to CBT (n = 20): Forgetfulness/Inconsistency [B(SE) = - 0.47(0.25), p = 0.031]; Intentional Nonadherence [B(SE) = - 0.31(0.15), p = 0.027]. CONCLUSION Women receiving relaxation training were less likely to (1) forget to take their AET and (2) intentionally miss doses of AET in the long term compared to women receiving health education or CBT. This is evidence for the need of randomized trials that aim to improve adherence by incorporating theoretically based behavioral change techniques. TRIAL REGISTRATION AND DATES Trial 2R01-CA-064710 was registered March 26, 2006.
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8
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Peddie N, Agnew S, Crawford M, Dixon D, MacPherson I, Fleming L. The impact of medication side effects on adherence and persistence to hormone therapy in breast cancer survivors: A qualitative systematic review and thematic synthesis. Breast 2021; 58:147-159. [PMID: 34049260 PMCID: PMC8165559 DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2021.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hormone Therapy (HT) reduces the risk of breast cancer recurrence and mortality in women with breast cancer. Despite these clinical benefits, rates of HT non-adherence and non-persistence are high. Research suggests this may be due to the impact of HT side effects. However, little research has explored the individual contribution of side effects to non-adherence and non-persistence behaviours, thereby hindering the implementation of targeted intervention strategies. Our aim is to review the published literature on breast cancer survivors' lived experiences of HT side effects and explore how these may be related to non-adherence and non-persistence behaviour. METHODS Electronic searches were conducted from inception to May 2020, utilising Cochrane CENTRAL, Medline, Embase, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases. Searches included a combination of terms related to breast cancer, adherence, hormone therapy and side effects. RESULTS Sixteen eligible papers were identified, and study quality was high. Data were thematically synthesised into four analytical themes, which encompassed 13 descriptive sub-themes: 'Daily impact of side-effects', 'Role of Health Care Professionals', 'Managing HT side-effects', and 'Weighing up the pros and cons'. CONCLUSIONS HT side effects significantly impact breast cancer survivor's quality of life. A lack of support from healthcare providers leads to self-management strategies, which negatively affects adherence and persistence behaviour.
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Kuo CC, Wang HH, Tseng LP. Using data mining technology to predict medication-taking behaviour in women with breast cancer: A retrospective study. Nurs Open 2021; 9:2646-2656. [PMID: 34156764 PMCID: PMC9584494 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Medication‐taking behaviours of breast cancer survivors undergoing adjuvant hormone therapy have received considerable attention. This study aimed to determine factors affecting medication‐taking behaviours in people with breast cancer using data mining. Design A longitudinal observational retrospective cohort study with a hospital‐based survey. Methods A total of 385 subjects were surveyed, analysing existing data from January 2010 to December 2017 in Taiwan. Three data mining approaches—multiple logistic regression, decision tree and artificial neural network—were used to build the prediction models and rank the importance of influencing factors. Accuracy, specificity and sensitivity were used as assessment indicators for the prediction models. Results Multiple logistic regression was the most effective approach, achieving an accuracy of 96.37%, specificity of 96.75% and sensitivity of 96.12%. The duration of adjuvant hormone therapy discontinuation, duration of adjuvant hormone therapy use and age at diagnosis by data mining were the three most critical factors influencing the medication‐taking behaviours of people with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Chen Kuo
- The Cancer Prevention and Treatment Center, St. Martin De Porres Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan.,School of Nursing, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Hung Wang
- School of Nursing, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Ping Tseng
- Management Center, St. Martin De Porres Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan.,Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, Douliu, Taiwan
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Ferraris C, Ballestra B, Listorti C, Cappelletti V, Reduzzi C, Scaperrotta GP, Pulice I, Ferrari EGA, Folli S, Mariani L, Martelli G. Red clover and lifestyle changes to contrast menopausal symptoms in premenopausal patients with hormone-sensitive breast cancer receiving tamoxifen. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2020; 180:157-165. [PMID: 31975316 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-020-05534-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether a red clover preparation plus dietary intervention administered to premenopausal women with breast cancer (BC), improves menopausal symptoms due to anti-oestrogen treatment, and hence promotes compliance with tamoxifen, prevents weight gain and is safe. METHODS Surgically-treated premenopausal women with oestrogen receptor (ER) positive disease taking tamoxifen were recruited to a prospective double-blind randomized trial (NCT03844685). The red clover group (N = 42) received one oral tablet/day (Promensil® Forte) containing 80 mg red clover extract for 24 months. The placebo group (N = 39) received one oral tablet/day without active ingredient. All women were encouraged to follow a Mediterranean-type diet and keep active. Outcomes were Menopausal Rating Score (MRS), body mass index (BMI), waist and hip girth, insulin resistance, and levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and sex hormones. As safety indicators, endometrial thickness, breast density, and effects of patient serum on ER-positive BC cell lines were investigated. RESULTS MRS reduced significantly (p < 0.0001) with no between-group difference (p = 0.69). The red clover group had significantly greater reductions in BMI and waist circumference (p < 0.0001 both cases). HDL cholesterol increased significantly in both groups (p = 0.01). Hormone levels and insulin resistance changed little. Endometrial thickness remained constant (p = 0.93). Breast density decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.0001). Proliferation and oestrogen-regulated gene expression didn't differ in cell lines treated with serum from each group. CONCLUSIONS This is the first trial to assess red clover in BC patients on tamoxifen. The preparation proved safe clinically and in vitro, and was associated with reduced BMI and waist circumference, but the diet-lifestyle intervention probably improved the menopausal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Ferraris
- Breast Unit, Fondazione IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Barbara Ballestra
- Breast Unit, Fondazione IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Chiara Listorti
- Breast Unit, Fondazione IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy.
| | - Vera Cappelletti
- Biomarker Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Carolina Reduzzi
- Biomarker Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Gianfranco P Scaperrotta
- Breast Radiology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Iolanda Pulice
- Clinical Studies Scientific Director's Office, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Eleonora G A Ferrari
- Pharmacy and Experimental Clinical Studies, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Secondo Folli
- Breast Unit, Fondazione IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Luigi Mariani
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Trials Organization, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Gabriele Martelli
- Breast Unit, Fondazione IRCCS, Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via Venezian 1, 20133, Milano, Italy
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11
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Clancy C, Lynch J, OConnor P, Dowling M. Breast cancer patients' experiences of adherence and persistence to oral endocrine therapy: A qualitative evidence synthesis. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2019; 44:101706. [PMID: 32007696 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2019.101706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer recurrence and mortality in women with hormone receptor (HR+) breast cancer. Despite the documented survival benefits with AET, non-adherence and non-persistence remains a significant problem. This systematic review of qualitative research aimed to synthesise breast cancer patients' experiences of adherence and persistence to oral endocrine therapy. METHODS The ENTREQ guidelines were followed. A systematic search strategy was performed across eleven electronic databases (Embase, Cinahl, Pubmed, Psychinfo, Proquest, Lenus, Scopus, Web of Science, Rian.ie, EThOS e-theses online, DART Europe). Thomas and Harden's three-stage approach to thematic analysis was undertaken on the findings of all included studies. Confidence in the findings were reviewed using GRADE-CERQual. RESULTS Twenty-four qualitative studies were included in the synthesis. Three analytic themes were identified (We don't have an option; the side effects are worse than the disease; help us with information and support). Adherence was often driven by women feeling they had no option and a fear of cancer recurrence. Persistence was helped with support and information. Non-adherence and non-persistence were associated with debilitating side effects, inadequate information and lack of support. CONCLUSIONS Adherence and persistence to AET was often suboptimal among breast cancer patients. Women commonly felt isolated and neglected as a result of insufficient information and support from healthcare professionals. If women are to persist with AET, primary care providers should be aware of the facilitators and barriers to adherence, and they should be knowledgeable in symptom management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Clancy
- Oncology department, Letterkenny University Hospital, Ireland.
| | - Johanna Lynch
- Letterkenny University Hospital, Letterkenny, Ireland.
| | - Pamela OConnor
- Library and Information Services, Letterkenny University Hospital, Ireland.
| | - Maura Dowling
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland.
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12
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de Mendoza AH, Cabling M, Dilawari A, Turner JW, Fernández N, Henderson A, Zhu Q, Gómez S, Sheppard VB. Providers' Perspectives on Adherence to Hormonal Therapy in Breast Cancer Survivors. Is there a Role for the Digital Health Feedback System? HEALTH AND TECHNOLOGY 2019; 9:175-184. [PMID: 31448187 DOI: 10.1007/s12553-018-0267-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Objective Despite the benefits of hormonal therapy (HT) adherence remains suboptimal in ER positive breast cancer patients. Medication adherence is challenging to assess and tends to be overestimated. The Digital Health Feedback System (DHFS) consists of an ingestible sensor attached to a pill that sends intake date and time to a smart phone or computer. Patients can share this information with health care providers and other persons. The DHFS can also send reminders. This mixed methods study examined providers' perceptions of HT medication adherence. The potential role of the DHFS in enhancing medication tracking and adherence was also explored. Methods We conducted semi-structured interviews with key informants (N=10). Questions examined perceptions about adherence barriers and facilitators, challenges tracking adherence, and views on the DHFS. Findings informed the development of a survey that was administered online (N=19). Results Providers emphasized the importance of fostering open and trustful communication around adherence. The most mentioned challenges to assessing adherence were the patient not disclosing discontinuation immediately (78.9%) and over-reporting adherence (57.9%). The perceived potential benefits of DHFS were the ability to track adherence better (94.7%) and reminders to take the medication (68.4%). Safety to ingest a sensor was as a major perceived barrier (8 4.2%). Conclusion Interventions that target providers and doctor-patient communication are warranted to enhance adherence and reduce communication delays around HT discontinuation. Practice Implications DHFS has the potential to enhance HT adherence by directly targeting barriers. Future studies should also examine the feasibility of adopting the DHFS with cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Qi Zhu
- Georgetown University Medical Center
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