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Howdle G, Stephanou A, Barrett J, Roushdy S, Ngui N, Hughes M, Marx G, Boyages J. Has the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in more advanced breast cancer? A hospital-based retrospective study. ANZ J Surg 2024; 94:1539-1544. [PMID: 38747551 DOI: 10.1111/ans.19028] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The suspension of breast cancer screening during the COVID-19 pandemic altered patient diagnosis and management. This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 lockdowns, screening delays and reduced healthcare attendance on changes in tumour and treatment characteristics, particularly for biologically more aggressive breast cancers. METHODS This retrospective single-hospital analysis utilized data from a prospective cancer database between July 2019 and June 2022. Patient, tumour and treatment factors were compared across pre-pandemic, pandemic and post-pandemic groups. RESULTS Symptomatic breast cancer increased from 42.3% in the pre-, 53.1% in the pandemic and 57% in the post- respectively (P ≤ 0.05). Compared to the pre-pandemic group (4.6%), an increase in stages 3 or 4 breast cancers in the pandemic (8.5%) and post-pandemic (7.1%) was found. Increased node-positivity in Ki67 > 20%, grade 3 or ER- tumours post-pandemic (+5.4%, +14.8%, +33.4%, respectively) was identified. More neoadjuvant chemotherapy was found in both the pandemic (+4.3%) and post-pandemic (+11.3%, P = 0.0261) groups. An increase in hypofractionated radiotherapy in the post-pandemic group (+9.4%) was also identified. CONCLUSION Our study identified a decrease in early-stage cancers and an increase in node positivity, particularly for biologically more aggressive tumours. An increase in the number of patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy or hypofractionated radiotherapy during the pandemic and post-pandemic periods was also identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Howdle
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Adam Stephanou
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Jordan Barrett
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Suzannah Roushdy
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Nicholas Ngui
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Division of Surgery, Sydney Adventist Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Hughes
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Division of Surgery, Sydney Adventist Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gavin Marx
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sydney Adventist Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Boyages
- School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- ICON Cancer Centre, NSW, Sydney Adventist Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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2
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Powell AC, Long JW, Bhatnagar AK, Loy BA, Mirhadi AJ. Use of Radiation Therapy for the Treatment of Breast Cancer in 2019 Versus 2020. Adv Radiat Oncol 2024; 9:101435. [PMID: 38778830 PMCID: PMC11110029 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2023.101435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted medical care. Little is known about how radiation therapy (RT) ordering behavior changed during the pandemic. This study examined (1) whether there was a change in the rate at which orders for lumpectomy were followed by orders for RT and (2) whether there was a change in the percentage of RT orders for hypofractionated (HF) RT rather than conventionally fractionated (CF) RT. Methods and Materials Prior authorization order data from 2019 and 2020, pertaining to patients with commercial and Medicare Advantage health plans, were reviewed to determine whether patients had an order for RT in the 90 days after lumpectomy and if it was for CF or HF RT. Univariate analyses were conducted using χ2 tests, and adjusted analyses were conducted using multivariate logistic regression, controlling for patient age, urbanicity, local median income, region, if the lumpectomy facility was academic, and if the lumpectomy facility was a hospital. Results In 2019, 47.7% of included lumpectomy orders (2200/4610) were followed by an RT order within 90 days, in contrast to 45.6% (1944/4263) in 2020 (P = .048). Of the RT orders meeting this study's definition of CF or HF, 75.3% of orders placed in 2019 (1387/1843) and 79.0% of orders placed in 2020 (1261/1597) were for HF (P = .011). Adjusted analysis found patients receiving a lumpectomy order in the first quarter of 2020 had significantly reduced odds (odds ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.71-0.99) of receiving an order for RT after lumpectomy, relative to those with orders placed in the first quarter of 2019. Adjusted analysis likewise found significant evidence of increased use of HF RT during the pandemic. Conclusions In the population examined, physicians were less likely to order RT after lumpectomy in 2020 than in 2019, and if they did, were more likely to order HF RT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam C. Powell
- HealthHelp, Houston, Texas
- Payer+Provider Syndicate, Newton, Massachusetts
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3
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Joo JH, Kim W, Nam J, Kim D, Kim HY, Jung YJ, Choo KS, Nam KJ, Nam SB, Kim JJ, Ki Y. Changing trends in the management of ductal carcinoma in situ in Republic of Korea: a comprehensive analysis using Health Insurance Review and Assessment data [2009-2020]. Gland Surg 2024; 13:131-143. [PMID: 38455345 PMCID: PMC10915430 DOI: 10.21037/gs-23-433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Background Increasing rates of diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), given the widespread use of mammography, is a global trend. Various attempts have been made in the selection of surgical methods and application of radiation therapy (RT), and the prevalence of infectious diseases has also affected these attempts. This study aimed to investigate evolving treatment patterns and trends in the management of DCIS in South Korea. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search of the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service-National Patient Sample (HIRA-NPS) database and selected patients who underwent breast surgery following a DCIS diagnosis between 2009 and 2020. Based on this sample, the analyses were weighted according to the Korean population. We examined annual variations in mastectomy types, reconstructive procedures, and RT utilization from a multidisciplinary perspective. Results In our weighted sample, 43,780 patients with DCIS underwent surgery, with a consistent annual increase of 10%. The proportion of lumpectomy procedures increased from 56.7% to 65.4%, showing a greater growth rate than that of total mastectomies (TMs). Following the availability of reconstruction data in 2015, shifts have emerged toward a preference for implant-based autologous tissue reconstruction. As we transitioned to the latter part of our study, the trend was marked by the increasing adoption of hypofractionated RT and omission of RT. Of the patients who underwent lumpectomy in 2020, 25.6% adopted hypofractionated RT and 53.8% omitted RT. This transformation was particularly evident among older patients, individuals treated in metropolitan areas, and those treated in small-sized healthcare facilities. Conclusions Our study sheds light on the changing landscape of DCIS treatment in South Korea incorporating perspectives from surgeons, plastic surgeons, and radiation oncologists. We observed an increase in the rates of lumpectomy and implant-based reconstruction. Adoption of hypofractionated RT and omission of RT showed increasing trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hyeon Joo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Wontaek Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiho Nam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghyun Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Yul Kim
- Department of Surgery, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Surgery, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Youn Joo Jung
- Department of Surgery, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Seok Choo
- Department of Radiology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Jin Nam
- Department of Radiology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Bong Nam
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Joon Kim
- Department of Oncology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongkan Ki
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
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Low C, Tejero I, Toledano N, Mariano C, Alibhai S, Lemonde M, Haase K, Puts M. Impact of COVID-19 on older adults with cancer and their caregivers' cancer treatment experiences study: The ICE-OLD study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291756. [PMID: 37729131 PMCID: PMC10511107 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and health services impacts related to physical distancing posed many challenges for older adults with cancer. The goal of this study was to examine the impact of the pandemic on cancer treatment plans and cancer treatment experiences of older adults (ie, aged 65 years and older) and their caregiver' experiences of caring for older adults during the pandemic to highlight gaps in care experienced. In this multi-centre qualitative study guided by an interpretive descriptive research approach we interviewed older adults diagnosed with cancer and caregivers caring for them. Participants were recruited via cancer treatment centres in the provinces of British Columbia and Ontario (Vancouver and Toronto), Canada, and through an online ad sent out through patient advocacy organization newsletters. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and data were analyzed using an interpretive thematic analysis approach. A total of 27 individuals (17 older adults, 52.9% female; 10 caregivers, 90% female) participated in interviews lasting on average 45 minutes. Older adults with cancer described many impacts and pressures created by the pandemic on their cancer experiences, though they generally felt that the pandemic did not impact treatment decisions made and access to care. We grouped our findings into two main themes with their accompanying sub-themes, related to: (1) alterations in the individual and dyadic cancer experience; and (2) navigating health and cancer systems during the pandemic. The additional stressors the pandemic placed on older adults during their treatment and decision-making process and their caregivers expose the need to create or avail additional supports for future disruptions in care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cydney Low
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Isabel Tejero
- Geriatrics Department, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nelly Toledano
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Caroline Mariano
- BC Cancer Agency, Vancouver and Royal Columbian Hospital, New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shabbir Alibhai
- Department of Medicine and Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Manon Lemonde
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kristen Haase
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Martine Puts
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Casà C, Corvari B, Cellini F, Cornacchione P, D'Aviero A, Reina S, Di Franco S, Salvati A, Colloca GF, Cesario A, Patarnello S, Balducci M, Morganti AG, Valentini V, Gambacorta MA, Tagliaferri L. KIT 1 (Keep in Touch) Project-Televisits for Cancer Patients during Italian Lockdown for COVID-19 Pandemic: The Real-World Experience of Establishing a Telemedicine System. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:1950. [PMID: 37444784 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11131950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the adoption of an integrated eHealth platform for televisit/monitoring/consultation during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS During the lockdown imposed by the Italian government during the COVID19 pandemic spread, a dedicated multi-professional working group was set up in the Radiation Oncology Department with the primary aim of reducing patients' exposure to COVID-19 by adopting de-centralized/remote consultation methodologies. Each patient's clinical history was screened before the visit to assess if a traditional clinical visit would be recommended or if a remote evaluation was to be preferred. Real world data (RWD) in the form of patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) and patient reported experiences (PREMs) were collected from patients who underwent televisit/teleconsultation through the eHealth platform. RESULTS During the lockdown period (from 8 March to 4 May 2020) a total of 1956 visits were managed. A total of 983 (50.26%) of these visits were performed via email (to apply for and to upload of documents) and phone call management; 31 visits (1.58%) were performed using the eHealth system. Substantially, all patients found the eHealth platform useful and user-friendly, consistently indicating that this type of service would also be useful after the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS The rapid implementation of an eHealth system was feasible and well-accepted by the patients during the pandemic. However, we believe that further evidence is to be generated to further support large-scale adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calogero Casà
- Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina-Gemelli Isola, Via di Ponte Quattro Capi 39, 00186 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Corvari
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Cellini
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Cornacchione
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea D'Aviero
- Mater Olbia Hospital, SS 125 Orientale Sarda, 07026 Olbia, Italy
| | - Sara Reina
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Franco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Salvati
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alfredo Cesario
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Patarnello
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Balducci
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessio Giuseppe Morganti
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Via Zamboni 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Giuseppe Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Valentini
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Gambacorta
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Radiologiche ed Ematologiche, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Tagliaferri
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy
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6
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Brower JV, Rhodes SS, Remick JS, Russo AL, Dunn EF, Ayala-Peacock DN, Petereit DG, Bradley KA, Taunk NK. Effect of COVID-19 on Gynecologic Oncology Care: A Survey of Practicing Gynecologic Radiation Oncologists in the United States. Adv Radiat Oncol 2023; 8:101188. [PMID: 36974086 PMCID: PMC9968481 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2023.101188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The COVID-19 pandemic has placed demands and limitations on the delivery of health care. We sought to assess the effect of COVID-19 on the delivery of gynecologic oncologic care from the perspective of practicing radiation oncologists in the United States. Methods and Materials An anonymous online survey was created and distributed to preidentified radiation oncologists in the United States with clinical expertise in the management of gynecologic patients. The survey consisted of demographic questions followed by directed questions to assess specific patterns of care related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results A total of 47 of 96 invited radiation oncologists responded to the survey for a response rate of 49%. Fifty-six percent of respondents reported an increase in locally advanced cervical cancer with no similar increase for endometrial, vulvar, or vaginal patients. Most respondents (66%) reported a pause in surgical management, with a duration of 1 to 3 months being most common (61%). There was a reported increased use of shorter brachytherapy regimens during the pandemic. Most providers (61%) reported caring for at least 1 patient with a positive COVID-19 test. A pause or delay in treatment due to COVID-19 positivity was reported by 45% of respondents, with 55% reporting that patients chose to delay their own care because of COVID-19-related concerns. Total treatment times >8 weeks for patients with cervical cancer were observed by 33% of respondents, but occurred in >25% of patients. Conclusions Data from this prospectively collected anonymous survey of practice patterns among radiation oncologists reveal that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in delays initiating care, truncated brachytherapy treatment courses, and a reported increase in locally advanced cervical cancer cases at presentation. These data can be used as a means of self-assessment to ensure appropriate decision making for gynecologic patients during the endemic phase of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey V. Brower
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
- Radiation Oncology Associates–New England, Manchester, New Hampshire
| | - Sylvia S. Rhodes
- Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jill S. Remick
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Andrea L. Russo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emily F. Dunn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and Research Center, Eugene, Oregon
| | | | - Daniel G. Petereit
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Monument Health Cancer Care Institute, Rapid City, South Dakota
| | - Kristin A. Bradley
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Neil K. Taunk
- Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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7
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Oladeru OT, Dunn SA, Li J, Coles CE, Yamauchi C, Chang JS, Cheng SHC, Kaidar-Person O, Meattini I, Ramiah D, Kirby A, Hijal T, Marta GN, Poortmans P, Isern-Verdum J, Zissiadis Y, Offersen BV, Refaat T, Elsayad K, Hijazi H, Dengina N, Belkacemi Y, Luo FD, Lu S, Griffin C, Collins M, Ryan P, Larios D, Warren LE, Punglia RS, Wong JS, Spiegel DY, Jagsi R, Taghian A, Bellon JR, Ho AY. Looking Back: International Practice Patterns in Breast Radiation Oncology From a Case-Based Survey Across 54 Countries During the First Surge of the COVID-19 Pandemic. JCO Glob Oncol 2023; 9:e2300010. [PMID: 37471670 PMCID: PMC10581620 DOI: 10.1200/go.23.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected cancer care worldwide, including radiation therapy (RT) for breast cancer (BC), because of risk-based resource allocation. We report the evolution of international breast RT practices during the beginning of the pandemic, focusing on differences in treatment recommendations between countries. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between July and November 2020, a 58-question survey was distributed to radiation oncologists (ROs) through international professional societies. Changes in RT decision making during the first surge of the pandemic were evaluated across six hypothetical scenarios, including the management of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), early-stage, locally advanced, and metastatic BC. The significance of changes in responses before and during the pandemic was examined using chi-square and McNemar-Bowker tests. RESULTS One thousand one hundred three ROs from 54 countries completed the survey. Incomplete responses (254) were excluded from the analysis. Most respondents were from the United States (285), Japan (117), Italy (63), Canada (58), and Brazil (56). Twenty-one percent (230) of respondents reported treating at least one patient with BC who was COVID-19-positive. Approximately 60% of respondents reported no change in treatment recommendation during the pandemic, except for patients with metastatic disease, for which 57.7% (636/1,103; P < .0005) changed their palliative practice. Among respondents who noted a change in their recommendation during the first surge of the pandemic, omitting, delaying, and adopting short-course RT were the most frequent changes, with most transitioning to moderate hypofractionation for DCIS and early-stage BC. CONCLUSION Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, significant changes in global RT practice patterns for BC were introduced. The impact of published results from the FAST FORWARD trial supporting ultrahypofractionation likely confounded the interpretation of the pandemic's independent influence on RT delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samantha A. Dunn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Charlotte E. Coles
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Chikako Yamauchi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shiga General Hospital, Shiga, Japan
- The Corona Countermeasures Executing Group of the Japanese Society for Radiation Oncology, Japan
| | - Jee Suk Chang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Yonsei Cancer Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Skye Hung-Chun Cheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Koo Foundation Sun Yat-Sen Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Orit Kaidar-Person
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sheba Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- GROW-School for Oncology and Developmental Biology or GROW (Maastro), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Icro Meattini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “M. Serio,” University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Oncology Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Duvern Ramiah
- Division of Radiation Oncology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anna Kirby
- Department of Radiotherapy, Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust and Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, United Kingdom
| | - Tarek Hijal
- Division of Radiation Oncology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Philip Poortmans
- Iridium Netwerk and University of Antwerp, Wilrijk Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Josep Isern-Verdum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Birgitte Vrou Offersen
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Tamer Refaat
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stritch School of Medicine, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL
| | - Khaled Elsayad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Hussam Hijazi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Natalia Dengina
- Department of Radiotherapy, Ulyanovsk Regional Cancer Center, Ulyanovsk Oblast, Russia
| | - Yazid Belkacemi
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Henri Mondor Breast Center, INSERM 955 i-Biot Unit, University of Paris-Est (UPEC), Creteil, France
| | - Feng Deng Luo
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Henri Mondor Breast Center, INSERM 955 i-Biot Unit, University of Paris-Est (UPEC), Creteil, France
| | - Shun Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology Center, Sichuan Cancer Center, Chengdu, China
| | - Colleen Griffin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Maya Collins
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Phoebe Ryan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Dalia Larios
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Laura E. Warren
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham & Women's Hospital/Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Rinaa S. Punglia
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham & Women's Hospital/Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Julia S. Wong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham & Women's Hospital/Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Daphna Y. Spiegel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Reshma Jagsi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | - Alphonse Taghian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Jennifer R. Bellon
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham & Women's Hospital/Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Alice Y. Ho
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
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8
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Hong Y, Nixon N, Cao JQ, Lee SL. Case report: Ultrahypofractionated palliative breast radiotherapy for a fungating invasive mammary carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1171444. [PMID: 37350951 PMCID: PMC10282535 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1171444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Palliative radiotherapy for symptomatic and intact breast tumors must balance convenience, efficacy, and risk of acute toxicity. This case report presents a patient with metastatic breast cancer and an intact fungating primary tumor. She was treated with an ultrahypofractionated radiation therapy, 26 Gy in 5 consecutive daily fractions, with sequential palliative chemotherapy. This resulted in a minimal toxicity profile and significant reduction of tumor burden and symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yejun Hong
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Nancy Nixon
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Q. Cao
- Division of Radiation Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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9
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Optimization of breast treatment planning towards lower dose rate: A Monte Carlo simulation study. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2023.101220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
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10
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Mushonga M, Weiss J, Liu ZA, Nyakabau AM, Mohamad O, Tawk B, Moraes FY, Grover S, Yap ML, Zubizarreta E, Lievens Y, Rodin D. Hypofractionation in Breast Cancer Radiotherapy Across World Bank Income Groups: Results of an International Survey. JCO Glob Oncol 2023; 9:e2200127. [PMID: 36706350 PMCID: PMC10166450 DOI: 10.1200/go.22.00127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Hypofractionated breast radiotherapy has been found to be equivalent to conventional fractionation in many clinical trials. Using data from the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology Global Impact of Radiotherapy in Oncology survey, we identified preferences for hypofractionation in breast cancer across World Bank income groups and the perceived facilitators and barriers to its use. MATERIALS AND METHODS An international, electronic survey was administered to radiation oncologists from 2018 to 2019. Demographics, practice characteristics, preferred hypofractionation regimen for specific breast cancer scenarios, and facilitators and barriers to hypofractionation were reported and stratified by World Bank income groups. Variables associated with hypofractionation were assessed using multivariate logistic regression models. RESULTS One thousand four hundred thirty-four physicians responded: 890 (62%) from high-income countries (HICs), 361 (25%) from upper-middle-income countries (UMICs), 183 (13%) from low- and lower-middle-income countries (LLMICs). Hypofractionation was preferred most frequently in node-negative disease after breast-conserving surgery, with the strongest preference reported in HICs (78% from HICs, 54% from UMICs, and 51% from LLMICs, P < .001). Hypofractionation for node-positive disease postmastectomy was more frequently preferred in LLMICs (28% from HICs, 15% from UMICs, and 35% from LLMICs, P < .001). Curative doses of 2.1 to < 2.5 Gy in 15-16 fractions were most frequently reported, with limited preference for ultra-hypofractionation, but significant variability in palliative dosing. In adjusted analyses, UMICs were significantly less likely than LLMICs to prefer hypofractionation across all curative clinical scenarios, whereas respondents with > 1 million population catchments and with intensity-modulated radiotherapy were more likely to prefer hypofractionation. The most frequently cited facilitators and barriers were published evidence and fear of late toxicity, respectively. CONCLUSION Preference for hypofractionation varied for curative indications, with greater acceptance in earlier-stage disease in HICs and in later-stage disease in LLMICs. Targeted educational interventions and greater inclusivity in radiation oncology clinical trials may support greater uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Mushonga
- Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica Weiss
- Department of Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zhihui Amy Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anna-Mary Nyakabau
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Osama Mohamad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Bouchra Tawk
- German Cancer Research Consortium, Core Site Heidelberg, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany.,Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine and Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fabio Y Moraes
- Department of Oncology, Division of Radiation Oncology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Surbhi Grover
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, United States; Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Mei Ling Yap
- Collaboration for Cancer Outcomes, Research and Evaluation (CCORE), Ingham Institute, UNSW Sydney, Liverpool, Australia.,Liverpool and Macarthur Cancer Therapy Centres, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, Australia.,School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Campbelltown, Australia
| | | | - Yolande Lievens
- Ghent University Hospital and Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Danielle Rodin
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Wu TC, McCloskey SA. Established and new horizons in radiotherapy for breast cancer. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2023; 15:17588359231161415. [PMID: 36950271 PMCID: PMC10026101 DOI: 10.1177/17588359231161415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Modern advances in diagnostics, surgery, systemic therapies, and radiotherapy (RT) have drastically revolutionized treatment strategies for breast cancer. This review outlines current and evolving treatment paradigms for RT in the breast-conserving therapy and post-mastectomy setting. In early-stage breast cancer, there is active investigation in expanding eligibility for omission of RT in women with more biologically favorable tumors and growing options to effectively irradiate less breast tissue and shorten RT treatment courses. For locally advanced breast cancer, we discuss several patient cohorts in which the necessity of post-mastectomy RT (PMRT) is commonly debated. Ongoing efforts to better refine indications for PMRT and evaluate the feasibility of hypofractionated PMRT are being studied. Metastasis-directed therapy with ablative RT is an emerging topic of interest in many cancers, including its role and impact in oligometastatic breast cancer. In this review, we will discuss the rationale for current standard of care and address in greater detail the aforementioned concepts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trudy C. Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of
California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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12
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Anderson B, Arthur D, Hannoun-Levi JM, Kamrava M, Khan A, Kuske R, Scanderbeg D, Shah C, Shaitelman S, Showalter T, Vicini F, Wazer D, Yashar C. Partial breast irradiation: An updated consensus statement from the American brachytherapy society. Brachytherapy 2022; 21:726-747. [PMID: 36117086 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In recent years, results with mature follow-up have been reported for several Phase III trials randomizing women to receive whole breast irradiation (WBI) versus varying modalities of partial breast irradiation (PBI). It is important to recognize that these methods vary in terms of volume of breast tissue treated, dose per fraction, and duration of therapy. As such, clinical and technical guidelines may vary among the various PBI techniques. METHODS Members of the American Brachytherapy Society with expertise in PBI performed an extensive literature review focusing on the highest quality data available for the numerous PBI options offered in the modern era. Data were evaluated for strength of evidence and published outcomes were assessed. RESULTS The majority of women enrolled on randomized trials of WBI versus PBI have been age >45 years with tumor size <3 cm, negative margins, and negative lymph nodes. The panel also concluded that PBI can be offered to selected women with estrogen receptor negative and/or Her2 amplified breast cancer, as well as ductal carcinoma in situ, and should generally be avoided in women with extensive lymphovascular space invasion. CONCLUSIONS This updated guideline summarizes published clinical trials of PBI methods. The panel also highlights the role of PBI for women facing special circumstances, such as history of cosmetic breast augmentation or prior breast irradiation, and discusses promising novel modalities that are currently under study, such as ultrashort and preoperative PBI. Updated consensus guidelines are also provided to inform patient selection for PBI and to characterize the strength of evidence to support varying PBI modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Anderson
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI.
| | - Douglas Arthur
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | | | | | - Atif Khan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - Robert Kuske
- Arizona Breast Cancer Specialists, Scottsdale, AZ
| | - Daniel Scanderbeg
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Chirag Shah
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland, OH
| | - Simona Shaitelman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Timothy Showalter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
| | | | - David Wazer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Catheryn Yashar
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
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13
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Raman S, Jia F, Liu Z, Wenz J, Carter M, Dickie C, Liu FF, Letourneau D. Forecasting Institutional LINAC Utilization in Response to Varying Workload. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2022; 21:15330338221123108. [PMID: 36285543 PMCID: PMC9608060 DOI: 10.1177/15330338221123108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesPandemics, natural disasters, and other unforeseen circumstances can cause short-term variation in radiotherapy utilization. In this study, we aim to develop a model to forecast linear accelerator (LINAC) utilization during periods of varying workloads. Methods: Using computed tomography (CT)-simulation data and the rate of new LINAC appointment bookings in the preceding week as input parameters, a multiple linear regression model to forecast LINAC utilization over a 15-working day horizon was developed and tested on institutional data. Results: Future LINAC utilization was estimated in our training dataset with a forecasting error of 3.3%, 5.9%, and 7.2% on days 5, 10, and 15, respectively. The model identified significant variations (≥5% absolute differences) in LINAC utilization with an accuracy of 69%, 62%, and 60% on days 5, 10, and 15, respectively. The results were similar in the validation dataset with forecasting errors of 3.4%, 5.3%, and 6.2% and accuracy of 67%, 60%, and 58% on days 5, 10, and 15, respectively. These results compared favorably to moving average and exponential smoothing forecasting techniques. Conclusions: The developed linear regression model was able to accurately forecast future LINAC utilization based on LINAC booking rate and CT simulation data, and has been incorporated into our institutional dashboard for broad distribution. Advances in knowledge: Our proposed linear regression model is a practical and intuitive approach to forecasting short-term LINAC utilization, which can be used for resource planning and allocation during periods with varying LINAC workloads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivas Raman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada,Srinivas Raman MD, FRCPC, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, 700 University Avenue, Room 7-610, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2M9.
| | - Fan Jia
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Zhihui Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Julie Wenz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Carter
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Colleen Dickie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Fei-Fei Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel Letourneau
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada,Daniel Letourneau PhD, DABR, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, 700 University Avenue, Room 7-424, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2M9.
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14
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Badillo-Alvarado AH, Martín-Tovar EA, Molina-Salinas GM, Sandoval-Méndez AC, Sarricolea-Puch A. Association between the cardiac contact distance and the maximum dose at the left anterior descending coronary artery in post mastectomized patients. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2022; 61:407-423. [PMID: 35819511 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-022-00983-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The clinical information on the relationship between the cardiac contact distance (CCD), the maximum dose (Dmax) delivered to the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery and the mean heart dose has mostly focused on patients with breast-conserving surgery (BCS), being scarce in postmastectomy patients. The aim of this study is to determine the association between the CCD and the Dmax delivered to the LAD. The secondary objective was to evaluate the dosimetric results of comparing three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) to intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) techniques for post mastectomized breast cancer patients with irradiation to the left chest wall. 53 cases of women who received adjuvant standard fractionated postmastectomy radiotherapy (PMRT) were used. Three types of plans were created for each patient: 3D-CRT, seven equidistant IMRT fields, and four partial VMAT arcs. Correlations were evaluated using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Plans made with IMRT and VMAT showed improved homogeneity and conformity. Associations between CCD and Dmax to LAD were positive for all three plan types. Compared to 3D-CRT, the modulated intensity plans obtained better dose homogeneity and conformity to the target volume. The LAD and heart doses were significantly lower for IMRT and VMAT plans. The CCD can be used as a predictor of the maximum and mean doses of the LAD. Modulated intensity techniques allow for better dose distribution and dose reduction to the heart and LAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H Badillo-Alvarado
- División de Oncología y Uronefrología, Departamento de Radioterapia, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Especialidades del Centro Médico Nacional "Ignacio García Téllez", Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, CP 97150, Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - E A Martín-Tovar
- División de Oncología y Uronefrología, Departamento de Radioterapia, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Especialidades del Centro Médico Nacional "Ignacio García Téllez", Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, CP 97150, Mérida, Yucatán, México.
| | - G M Molina-Salinas
- Unidad de Investigación Médica Yucatán, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad Hospital de Especialidades 1 Mérida, Yucatán, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, CP 97150, Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - A C Sandoval-Méndez
- División de Oncología y Uronefrología, Departamento de Radioterapia, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Especialidades del Centro Médico Nacional "Ignacio García Téllez", Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, CP 97150, Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | - A Sarricolea-Puch
- División de Oncología y Uronefrología, Departamento de Radioterapia, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad, Hospital de Especialidades del Centro Médico Nacional "Ignacio García Téllez", Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, CP 97150, Mérida, Yucatán, México
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15
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Jacqmin DJ, Crosby JSM. The impact of COVID-19 on a high-volume incident learning system: A retrospective analysis. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2022; 23:e13653. [PMID: 35616007 PMCID: PMC9278685 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.13653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this work was to assess how the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impacted our incident learning system data and communicate the impact of a major exogenous event on radiation oncology clinical practice. METHODS Trends in our electronic incident reporting system were analyzed to ascertain the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including any direct clinical changes. Incident reports submitted in the 18 months prior to the pandemic (September 14, 2018 to March 13, 2020) and reports submitted during the first 18 months of the pandemic (March 14, 2020 to September 13, 2021) were compared. The incident reports include several data elements that were evaluated for trends between the two time periods, and statistical analysis was performed to compare the proportions of reports. RESULTS In the 18 months prior to COVID-19, 192 reports were submitted per 1000 planning tasks (n = 832 total). In the first 18 months of the pandemic, 147 reports per 1000 planning tasks were submitted (n = 601 total), a decrease of 23.4%. Statistical analysis revealed that there were no significant changes among the data elements between the pre- and during COVID-19 time periods. An analysis of the free-text narratives in the reports found that phrases related to pretreatment imaging were common before COVID-19 but not during. Conversely, phrases related to intravenous contrast, consent for computed tomography, and adaptive radiotherapy became common during COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS The data elements captured by our incident learning system were stable after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with no statistically significant findings after correction for multiple comparisons. A trend toward fewer reports submitted for low-risk issues was observed. The methods used in the work can be generalized to events with a large-scale impact on the clinic or to monitor an incident learning system to drive future improvement activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin J. Jacqmin
- Department of Human OncologyUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
| | - Jennie S. M. Crosby
- Department of Human OncologyUniversity of Wisconsin‐MadisonMadisonWisconsinUSA
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16
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Prionas ND, Stephens SJ, Blitzblau RC. Early-stage Breast Cancer: Tailored External Beam Fractionation Approaches for Treatment of the Whole or Partial Breast. Semin Radiat Oncol 2022; 32:245-253. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2022.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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17
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Abdelkader H, El-Kassas M. Tailored treatment strategies for cancer patients during COVID-19 pandemic. Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2022; 27:318-330. [PMID: 36299379 PMCID: PMC9591031 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.a2022.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The global pandemic of respiratory disease caused by the novel human coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has caused indefinite global distress, uncertainty, and disturbance. This pandemic has had direct and indirect impacts for the healthcare systems across the world, but certain subgroups of patients have been particularly affected. Among these groups are patients with cancer, who as a result of their immunosuppressed status either from the disease itself or as a consequence of treatment, are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 infection and complications. The pandemic has also led to limited resources as medical services have been primarily directed to emergency care. In this context, physicians and healthcare providers have had to balance the importance of continuing treatment of cancer patients with the risk of virus infection. In this review, we outline the treatment strategies for cancer patients during this pandemic, focusing on tailored treatment in this challenging situation of varying risks and benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haytham Abdelkader
- Clinical Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El-Kassas
- Endemic Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
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18
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Briceño Morales X, Briceño Morales C. Implicaciones de la pandemia en la radioterapia para el cáncer de mama. Radioterapia hipofraccionada. REVISTA DE SENOLOGÍA Y PATOLOGÍA MAMARIA 2022. [PMCID: PMC8767944 DOI: 10.1016/j.senol.2021.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
La pandemia por el nuevo coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) ha puesto a prueba los sistemas de salud de todo el mundo, de una forma tan apremiante que no se veía hace muchos años. Las implicaciones en la atención en salud no afectan únicamente a los pacientes con la COVID-19, sino que son transversales a todas las enfermedades. Específicamente en cáncer de mama, los esquemas de radioterapia hipofraccionada constituyen una alternativa válida y segura que ayuda a disminuir la exposición de las pacientes al nuevo virus, la congestión de las instituciones de salud y los costos propios de los tratamientos oncológicos especializados. En este artículo, se realizó una revisión de la literatura más relevante sobre los regímenes acortados de radioterapia en cáncer de mama: hipofraccionamiento e hipofraccionamiento extremo, y sobre su equivalencia con el fraccionamiento estándar. Al final, se destacan las recomendaciones de diferentes sociedades científicas y expertos internacionales, para considerar esquemas de radioterapia hipofraccionados, a propósito de la contingencia de salud mundial.
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19
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Implicaciones de la pandemia en la radioterapia para el cáncer de mama. Omisión de la radioterapia. REVISTA DE SENOLOGÍA Y PATOLOGÍA MAMARIA 2022. [PMCID: PMC8760928 DOI: 10.1016/j.senol.2021.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
La pandemia actual por el nuevo coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) exige que los sistemas de salud rápidamente adopten medidas encaminadas a mitigar la crisis, lo que implica redistribuir los recursos económicos, sociales y la fuerza laboral, para que aquellos sectores de la población más afectados puedan ser atendidos de forma óptima y oportuna. En los pacientes con carcinoma mamario in situ e invasivo de bajo riesgo, la radioterapia postoperatoria no ofrece ningún beneficio en supervivencia global, lo que hace atractiva la idea de omitir este recurso oncológico. En este artículo, se realizó una revisión de la literatura sobre los criterios para omitir la radioterapia adyuvante en los pacientes con neoplasias mamarias de bajo riesgo. Adicionalmente, se resumen las recomendaciones emitidas por algunas sociedades científicas internacionales durante la contingencia actual, y se analizan determinadas razones por las cuales los médicos se rehúsan a cambiar conductas clínicas que ofrecen ventajas limitadas, muchas veces contrarrestadas por los riesgos y los efectos adversos asociados.
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20
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Knowlton CA. Breast Cancer Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic: the Radiation Oncology Perspective. CURRENT BREAST CANCER REPORTS 2022; 14:8-16. [PMID: 35251487 PMCID: PMC8881209 DOI: 10.1007/s12609-022-00441-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused disruption in healthcare throughout the world. The limitations placed on hospital resources and the need to limit potential exposure to SARS-CoV-2 for both patients and healthcare staff have affected oncologic care for patients with breast cancer (BC), including radiation therapy (RT). This review highlights published guidelines regarding the provision of radiotherapy for BC patients and their adoption by radiation oncology centers. Recent Findings Multiple international and national consortiums plus select institutions have published formal recommendations regarding radiation therapy for BC during the COVID-19 pandemic. They embody the principles of limiting in-person visits, proper triage, and the judicious use of delay, abbreviation, or omission of RT as appropriate. Summary Since the start of the pandemic, multiple publications have provided guidance regarding RT for BC during this challenging time. The pandemic has led to increased use of telemedicine and abbreviated radiation therapy courses in the setting of BC, which are likely to persist. Future research is needed to establish the effect of these changes on oncologic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christin A. Knowlton
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale School of Medicine, PO Box 208040, New Haven, CT USA
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21
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Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Low Resource Countries: Consensus Statement from the Iranian Society of Radiation Oncology. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER MANAGEMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/ijcm.116209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Context: COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in considerable overloading of health care systems in almost all regions of the world. Among different malignancies, breast cancer can be considered as a typical example of how the decision-making process for radiation treatment can be adapted to unusual situations. There exist several international guidelines in order to modify radiotherapy treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic, however, some of their recommendations are not applicable in regions with limited resources. In this manuscript, we provided guidance to deliver radiotherapy to patients with breast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic based on our available nationwide resources. Evidence Acquisition: A team of expert radiation oncologists convened multidisciplinary and cross-institutional meetings and reviewed the major internationally published guidelines and relevant literature in the field of breast radiotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic in order to establish recommendations for the safe application of radiation regimens based on the national limited resources. Results: Practical guidance in order to deliver radiotherapy to patients with breast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic based on available nationwide resources was developed. Conclusions: Many of the international recommendations on the breast cancer radiotherapy during COVID-19 outbreak are not applicable in countries with limited resources. Therefore, modifying the guidelines based on the available resources is mandatory in order to achieve the best possible results.
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22
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Murakami Y, Murakami Y, Kamima T, Oguchi M, Abo N, Takahashi T, Kaneko M, Nakano M, Matsubayashi F, Harada A, Taguchi S, Hashimoto T, Yoshioka Y. Dosimetric comparison between three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy followed by electron beam boost and volumetric modulated arc therapy using concomitant boost for the heart and cardiac segments in patients with left-sided breast cancer at risk for radiation-induced cardiac toxicity. Phys Med 2022; 95:126-132. [PMID: 35158316 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2022.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to compare dosimetric parameters between three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy followed by electron beam boost (3D-CRT + EB) and volumetric modulated arc therapy using simultaneous integrated boost (SIB-VMAT) in left-sided breast cancer patients. METHODS This study included 57 patients with left-sided breast cancer who underwent SIB-VMAT. All patients had a computed tomography-based maximum heart distance of ≥ 1 cm and were prescribed a dose of 42.56 Gy/16 fractions to the planning target volume and a concomitant-boosted target dose of 53.2 Gy or 51.2 Gy. The 3D-CRT + EB plan was retrospectively created for the purpose of comparison using tangential fields with field-in-field technique followed by electron beam irradiation. RESULTS The doses to the clinical target volume significantly improved in the SIB-VMAT plans. All dosimetric parameters for the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and LAD middle position (LAD mid) in the SIB-VMAT plans were significantly lower than those for 3D-CRT + EB plans (P < 0.01), while the doses to the heart, lung, contralateral breast and non-target tissue were decreased in the 3D-CRT + EB plans compared with those in the SIB-VMAT plans (e.g., 1.9 Gy vs. 2.9 Gy; P < 0.001 for the mean dose of heart). CONCLUSIONS SIB-VMAT significantly improved the dose to the target while reducing the doses to the LAD and LAD mid, whereas 3D-CRT + EB significantly decreased the doses to the heart and other organs at risk in patients with left-sided breast cancer at risk for radiation-induced coronary artery disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Murakami
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan.
| | - Yuki Murakami
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Kamima
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Masahiko Oguchi
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Natsumi Abo
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Taro Takahashi
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kaneko
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Masahiro Nakano
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Fumiyasu Matsubayashi
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Arisa Harada
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Senzo Taguchi
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Takeo Hashimoto
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Yasuo Yoshioka
- Radiation Oncology Department, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
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Chuang WK, Cheng SHC, Hung CF, Huang TT, Jen CW, Yen JH, Tsai YC. Comparison between the use of hypofractionated and conventionally fractionated radiotherapy in early breast cancer: A single-center real-world study in Taiwan. J Formos Med Assoc 2022; 121:1588-1595. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2022.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Kim H, Kim H, Lee HJ, Cho E, Koh SJ, Ahmed O, Chung S. The Validation Study of the Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-6 Scale Among Patients With Cancer in the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:811083. [PMID: 35492734 PMCID: PMC9046784 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.811083] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The study aimed to explore the psychometric properties of the Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-6 (SAVE-6) scale among patients with cancer who are in serious situations in the current COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS The survey included questions on the participants' demographic information, clinical history of cancer (including cancer type, stage, current treatment or diagnosis of complete remission), and scores on rating scales, including the SAVE-6 scale, Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). RESULTS The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) results determined that the model fits the single factor structure of the SAVE-6 scale among patients with cancer. The multi-group CFA showed that SAVE-6 can measure the anxiety response in a similar way across multiple variables, such as sex, presence of clinical depression, being in a state of complete remission, or currently undergoing cancer treatment. The SAVE-6 scale showed good reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.819) and convergent validity with the rating scales, such as CAS [r = 0.348 (95% CI, 0.273-0.419), p < 0.001] and PHQ-9 items score [r = 0.251 (95% CI, 0.172-0.328), p < 0.001]. CONCLUSIONS This study confirms SAVE-6 as a reliable and valid rating scale for measuring the anxiety response of patients with cancer during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeyeong Kim
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Harin Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyuk Joo Lee
- Department of Public Medical Service, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Eulah Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Su-Jin Koh
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Oli Ahmed
- Department of Psychology, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh.,National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Seockhoon Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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Acquati C, Chen TA, Martinez Leal I, Connors SK, Haq AA, Rogova A, Ramirez S, Reitzel LR, McNeill LH. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cancer Care and Health-Related Quality of Life of Non-Hispanic Black/African American, Hispanic/Latina and Non-Hispanic White Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer in the U.S.: A Mixed-Methods Study Protocol. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:13084. [PMID: 34948695 PMCID: PMC8702073 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had critical consequences for cancer care delivery, including altered treatment protocols and delayed services that may affect patients' quality of life and long-term survival. Breast cancer patients from minoritized racial and ethnic groups already experience worse outcomes, which may have been exacerbated by treatment delays and social determinants of health (SDoH). This protocol details a mixed-methods study aimed at comparing cancer care disruption among a diverse sample of women (non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black/African American, and Hispanic/Latina) and assessing how proximal, intermediate, and distal SDoH differentially contribute to care continuity and health-related quality of life. An embedded mixed-methods design will be implemented. Eligible participants will complete an online survey, followed by a semi-structured interview (with a subset of participants) to further understand factors that influence continuity of care, treatment decision-making, and self-reported engagement. The study will identify potentially modifiable factors to inform future models of care delivery and improve care transitions. These data will provide the necessary evidence to inform whether a subsequent, multilevel intervention is warranted to improve quality of care delivery in the COVID-19 aftermath. Additionally, results can be used to identify ways to leverage existing social resources to help manage and support patients' outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Acquati
- Graduate College of Social Work, University of Houston, 3511 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Department of Health Disparities Research, The UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Tzuan A. Chen
- HEALTH Research Institute, University of Houston, 4849 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (T.A.C.); (I.M.L.); (L.R.R.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Isabel Martinez Leal
- HEALTH Research Institute, University of Houston, 4849 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (T.A.C.); (I.M.L.); (L.R.R.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Shahnjayla K. Connors
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Houston-Downtown, Houston, TX 77002, USA
| | - Arooba A. Haq
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Anastasia Rogova
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Stephanie Ramirez
- College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Houston, 3507 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX 77204, USA;
| | - Lorraine R. Reitzel
- HEALTH Research Institute, University of Houston, 4849 Calhoun Road, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (T.A.C.); (I.M.L.); (L.R.R.)
- Department of Psychological, Health and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, 491 Farish Hall, Houston, TX 77204, USA; (S.K.C.); (A.A.H.); (A.R.)
| | - Lorna H. McNeill
- Department of Health Disparities Research, The UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
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Schmitt M, Eber J, Antoni D, Noel G. Should the management of radiation therapy for breast cancer be standardized? Results of a survey on current French practices in breast radiotherapy. Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2021; 26:814-826. [PMID: 34760316 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.a2021.0102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer in women in France. Its management has evolved considerably in recent years with a focus on reducing iatrogenic toxicity. The radiotherapy indications are validated in multidisciplinary consultation meetings; however, questions remain outstanding, particularly regarding hypofractionated radiotherapy, partial breast irradiation, and irradiation of the internal mammary chain and axillary lymph node area. Materials and methods An online survey was sent to 47 heads of radiotherapy departments in France. The survey consisted of 22 questions concerning indications for irradiation of the supraclavicular, internal mammary and axillary lymph node areas; irradiation techniques and modalities; prescribed doses; and fractionation. Results Twenty-four out of 47 centers responded (response rate of 51%). This survey demonstrated a wide variation in the prescribed dose regimen, monoisocentric radiotherapy, and indications of irradiation of the lymph node areas. Conclusion This survey provides insight into the current radiotherapy practice for breast cancer in France. It shows the need to standardize practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Schmitt
- Radiotherapy Department, Institut du Cancer, Strasbourg, Europe, France
| | - Jordan Eber
- Radiotherapy Department, Institut du Cancer, Strasbourg, Europe, France
| | - Delphine Antoni
- Radiotherapy Department, Institut du Cancer, Strasbourg, Europe, France
| | - Georges Noel
- Radiotherapy Department, Institut du Cancer, Strasbourg, Europe, France
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Kim K, Kim H, Lee J, Cho IK, Ahn MH, Son KY, Kim JE, Kim HJ, Yoon SM, Kim SH, Kwon MJ, Kim HJ, Koh SJ, Seo S, Chung S. Functional Impairments in the Mental Health, Depression and Anxiety Related to the Viral Epidemic, and Disruption in Healthcare Service Utilization Among Cancer Patients in the COVID-19 Pandemic Era. Cancer Res Treat 2021; 54:671-679. [PMID: 34583461 PMCID: PMC9296928 DOI: 10.4143/crt.2021.585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Literature is scarce regarding cancer care utilization during the massive outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the Republic of Korea. We investigated functional impairments in mental health and their relationships with depression, anxiety regarding the viral epidemic, and disruptions in healthcare service utilization among cancer patients in the COVID-19 pandemic era. Materials and Methods We used an online survey with questions related to the disturbances faced by patients with cancer in utilizing healthcare services in the pandemic era. Current mental health status was assessed using the Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS), Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-6 (SAVE-6) scale, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), Cancer-Related Dysfunctional Beliefs about Sleep Scale (C-DBS), and Fear of COVID-19 over Cancer (FCC). Results Among the 221 responders, 95 (43.0%) reported disruptions in healthcare service utilization during the COVID-19 pandemic. Logistic regression analysis revealed that functional impairment in the mental health of these patients was expected due to disruptions in healthcare service utilization, high levels of depression, anxiety regarding the viral epidemic, fear of COVID over cancer, and low resilience. Mediation analysis showed that patient resilience and cancer-related dysfunctional beliefs about sleep partially mediated the effects of viral anxiety on functional impairment. Conclusion In this pandemic era, patients with cancer experience depression, anxiety regarding the viral epidemic, and disruptions in healthcare service utilization, which may influence their functional impairments in mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyumin Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Harin Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joohee Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Inn-Kyu Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Myung Hee Ahn
- Division of Psychiatry, Health Screening and Promotion Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ki Young Son
- Department of Family Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeong Eun Kim
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hee Jeong Kim
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Min Yoon
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - So Hee Kim
- Cancer Edu-Info Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Moon Jung Kwon
- Cancer Edu-Info Center, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hwa Jung Kim
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su-Jin Koh
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Seyoung Seo
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seockhoon Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Teckie S, Andrews JZ, Chen WCY, Goenka A, Koffler D, Adair N, Potters L. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Surge on Radiation Treatment: Report From a Multicenter New York Area Institution. JCO Oncol Pract 2021; 17:e1270-e1277. [PMID: 33529045 PMCID: PMC8457805 DOI: 10.1200/op.20.00619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE During the COVID-19 surge months of March and April 2020, our New York multicenter health system experienced an influx of cases with COVID-19. We sought to study the impact of the surge period on patients with cancer prescribed radiation treatment (RT). METHODS We reviewed our secure departmental quality assurance database for all patients who underwent RT planning simulations from March 6, 2020, through April 30, 2020. A priority level between 1 and 3 was prospectively assigned to each case based on faculty consensus to determine which patients required immediate RT. In May 2020, each faculty physician again retrospectively reviewed their patients from the database and provided additional commentary on how the COVID-19 pandemic had affected each patient's care. All statistics are descriptive. RESULTS A total of 412 RT courses in 406 unique patients were simulated for linear accelerator-based external beam RT. The median age was 66 years. Treatment intent was curative in 70.6% and palliative in 29.4%. Of the 412 cases, 66.7% were priority 1, 25% priority 2, and 7.8% priority 3. Two hundred thirty-nine cases (58%) underwent standard-of-care diagnosis, workup, and treatment plan. Seventeen patients (4.1%) electively canceled their RT, and 17 others (4.1%) electively delayed RT start. Thirty-four (8.3%) were prescribed hypofractionation to shorten their RT course, and 22 (5.3%) had a change in modality. Incomplete or delayed workup was identified in 19 cases (4.6%). CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic surge resulted in 42% of our patients having a non-standard-of-care pathway. This outcome demonstrates a significant impact of the COVID-19 crisis on routine cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sewit Teckie
- Academic Department of Radiation Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Lake Success, NY
| | - Janna Zeola Andrews
- Academic Department of Radiation Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Lake Success, NY
| | - William Chun-Ying Chen
- Academic Department of Radiation Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Lake Success, NY
| | - Anuj Goenka
- Academic Department of Radiation Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Lake Success, NY
| | - Daniel Koffler
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Lake Success, NY
| | - Nilda Adair
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Lake Success, NY
| | - Louis Potters
- Academic Department of Radiation Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, Lake Success, NY
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Ata Güler S, Özkan Güler Ö, Şimşek T, Zafer Cantürk N. Changes and disruptions in diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of breast cancer during two periods of the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey. Turk J Surg 2021; 37:222-231. [DOI: 10.47717/turkjsurg.2021.5069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective: COVID-19 disease, which rapidly became a pandemic, led to significant changes in the provision of health services. This included radical changes to the supply and delivery of routine services to release resources for emergency care. During this process, a range of restrictions were imposed including the recommended rules to be followed before, during and after surgery. Health services provided for breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and follow-up have also undergone enforced changes meaning the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with priority has come to the fore. In this study, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey, between March 11, 2020 and May 31, 2020 was assessed in comparison to pre-pandemic practice in terms of divided into two periods, and breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.
Material and Methods: Surgeons dealing with breast cancer treatment and registered to SENATURK (Turkish Senology Academy) were contacted online. The period was divided into two, between March 11th and April 30th and May 1st to May 31st, 2020. Surgeons were requested to complete two electronic evaluation forms, one for each period, investigating change in practice. Only complete responses for both periods were included in the analysis.
Results: There were 93 respondents. Except for less multidisciplinary breast councils, there was no delay in radiological and pathological diagnoses. The number of breast cancer surgeries increased in Period 2, and more COVID-19 positive breast cancer patients were operated in Period 2. Benign breast patients were delayed less frequently in Period 2. In the statistical analysis performed between the two groups, it was found that only a significant difference was in the number of outpatients with benign breasts.
Conclusion: With sufficient awareness of the risks of COVID-19 and with individual protection, breast cancer treatment was not affected during the assessed period of active pandemic in Turkey.
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Gillespie EF, Khan AJ, Cahlon O, Braunstein LZ. Are 5-Year Randomized Clinical Trial Results Sufficient for Implementation of Short-Course Whole Breast Radiation Therapy? Pract Radiat Oncol 2021; 11:301-304. [PMID: 34479656 PMCID: PMC9227962 DOI: 10.1016/j.prro.2021.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erin F Gillespie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York; Center for Health Policy and Outcomes, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
| | - Atif J Khan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Oren Cahlon
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Lior Z Braunstein
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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Palumbo I, Borghesi S, Gregucci F, Falivene S, Fontana A, Aristei C, Ciabattoni A. Omission of adjuvant radiotherapy for older adults with early-stage breast cancer particularly in the COVID era: A literature review (on the behalf of Italian Association of Radiotherapy and Clinical Oncology). J Geriatr Oncol 2021; 12:1130-1135. [PMID: 34020908 PMCID: PMC8131185 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2021.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
This review is aimed at evaluating whether radiation therapy (RT) can be omitted in older adult early-stage low-risk breast cancer (BC) patients. The published data are particularly relevant at present, during the COVID-19 pandemic emergency, to define a treatment strategy and to prioritize essential therapy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and PubMED were systematically researched from outset through April 2020 using Mesh terms. Only randomized controlled trials (RCT), with one arm without adjuvant whole-breast irradiation (WBI), were included in the analysis. Recent literature regarding the COVID pandemic and BC RT was assessed. The reported RCTs identified a group of BC patients (pT1-2N0M0 R0, grade 1-2, estrogen receptor (ER) positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative tumours) in which the absolute risk of local recurrence (LR) was considered low enough to omit RT. The most common risk factors were tumor diameter, nodal and receptor status. Adjuvant RT had a significant impact on LR but not on distant metastasis (DM) or death. During the COVID 19 pandemic, results from RTCs were re-considered to define treatment recommendations for BC patients. International scientific societies and radiation oncology experts suggested RT omission, whenever possible, in older adult early-stage BC patients. Adjuvant RT might be omitted in a highly selected group of older adult early-stage BC patients with favourable prognostic factors. Hypofractionated regimens should be the standard. RT omission, partial breast irradiation (PBI), and ultra- hypofractionated regimens could be considered in selected cases due to the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Palumbo
- Radiation Oncology Section, University of Perugia and Perugia General Hospital, Perugia, Italy
| | - Simona Borghesi
- Radiation Oncology Department, Arezzo-Valdarno, Azienda USL Toscana Sud Est, Arezzo, Italy
| | - Fabiana Gregucci
- Radiation Oncology Division, Miulli-Felli Hospital, Acquaviva delle Fonti, Bari, Italy
| | - Sara Falivene
- Radiation Oncology Division, Ospedale del Mare, Asl Napoli 1 centro, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonella Fontana
- Radiation Oncology Division, Santa Maria Goretti Hospital, Latina, Italy
| | - Cynthia Aristei
- Radiation Oncology Section, University of Perugia and Perugia General Hospital, Perugia, Italy,Corresponding author at: Radiation Oncology Section, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia General Hospital, Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, 06156 Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonella Ciabattoni
- Radiation Oncology Division, San Filippo Neri, Hospital, ASL Roma 1, Roma, Italy
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Xie J, Qi W, Cao L, Tan Y, Huang J, Gu X, Chen B, Shen P, Zhao Y, Zhang Y, Zhao Q, Huang H, Wang Y, Fang H, Jin Z, Li H, Zhao X, Qian X, Xu F, Ou D, Wang S, Xu C, Li M, Jiang Z, Wang Y, Huang X, Chen J. Predictors for Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Breast Cancer Patients Referred to Radiation Therapy During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multi-Center Cross-Section Survey. Front Oncol 2021; 11:650766. [PMID: 34381703 PMCID: PMC8351463 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.650766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted on radiotherapy (RT) strategy for breast cancer patients, which might lead to increased distressing psychological symptoms. We performed a multi-center cross-section survey to investigate prevalence of fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) and predictors for FCR in patients referred to RT during pandemic. METHODS 542 patients were consecutively enrolled from three regions in China including Yangtze Delta River Region, Guangdong and Shanxi province. Patients' characteristics were collected using an information sheet, Fear of progression questionnaire-short form, Hospital Anxiety/Depression Scale and EORTC QLQ-C30. The hierarchical multiple regression models were performed. RESULTS 488 patients with complete data were eligible. The RT strategy was affected in 265 (54.3%) patients, including 143 with delayed RT initiation, 66 believing to have delayed RT initiation but actually not, 24 with RT interruptions, 19 shifting to local hospitals for RT and the remaining 13 influenced on both RT schedule and hospital level. The model explained 59.7% of observed variances in FCR (p<0.001) and showed that influence of RT strategy had significantly impacted on FCR (△R2 = 0.01, △F=2.966, p=0.019). Hospitals in Shanxi province (β=-0.117, p=0.001), emotional function (β=-0.19, p<0.001), social function (β=-0.111, p=0.006), anxiety (β=0.434, p<0.001) and RT interruption (β=0.071, p=0.035) were independent predictors. CONCLUSIONS RT strategy for breast cancer patients was greatly influenced during pandemic. RT interruption is an independent predictor for high FCR. Our findings emphasize the necessity to ensure continuum of RT, and efforts should be taken to alleviate FCR through psychological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinrong Xie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weixiang Qi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Cao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuting Tan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Gu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bingguang Chen
- Department of Oncology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, China
| | - Peipei Shen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Yutian Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Oncology Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Qingwen Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Datong Second People’s Hospital, Datong, China
| | - Hecheng Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, China
| | - Yubin Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haicheng Fang
- Radiation Oncology Center, Puning Overseas Chinese Hospital, Jieyang, China
| | - Zhenjun Jin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Changshu No.1 People’s Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Changshu, China
| | - Hui Li
- Oncology Center, Yuncheng First Hospital, Yuncheng, China
| | - Xuehong Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Lin-fen Central Hospital, Linfen, China
| | - Xiaofang Qian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feifei Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Ou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shubei Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zefei Jiang
- Department of Breast Oncology, The Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO), Beijing, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanxi Provincial Cancer Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaobo Huang
- Department of Breast Tumor Radiotherapy, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiayi Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Freedman RA, Sedrak MS, Bellon JR, Block CC, Lin NU, King TA, Minami C, VanderWalde N, Jolly TA, Muss HB, Winer EP. Weathering the Storm: Managing Older Adults With Breast Cancer Amid COVID-19 and Beyond. J Natl Cancer Inst 2021; 113:355-359. [PMID: 32449757 PMCID: PMC7313961 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djaa079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Caring for older patients with breast cancer presents unique clinical considerations because of preexisting and competing comorbidity, the potential for treatment-related toxicity, and the consequent impact on functional status. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, treatment decision making for older patients is especially challenging and encourages us to refocus our treatment priorities. While we work to avoid treatment delays and maintain therapeutic benefit, we also need to minimize the risk for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) exposures, myelosuppression, general chemotherapy toxicity, and functional decline. Herein, we propose multidisciplinary care considerations for the aging patient with breast cancer, with the goal to promote a team-based, multidisciplinary treatment approach during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. These considerations remain relevant as we navigate the “new normal” for the approximately 30% of breast cancer patients aged 70 years and older who are diagnosed in the United States annually and for the thousands of older patients living with recurrent and/or metastatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Freedman
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mina S Sedrak
- Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer R Bellon
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Caroline C Block
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nancy U Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tari A King
- Department of Surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christina Minami
- Department of Surgery, Division of Breast Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Noam VanderWalde
- Department of Radiation Oncology, West Cancer Center and Research Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Trevor A Jolly
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Hyman B Muss
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Eric P Winer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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Francolini G, Desideri I, Stocchi G, Ciccone LP, Salvestrini V, Garlatti P, Aquilano M, Greto D, Bonomo P, Meattini I, Scotti V, Scoccianti S, Simontacchi G, Livi L. Impact of COVID-19 on workload burden of a complex radiotherapy facility. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2021; 126:717-721. [PMID: 33646520 PMCID: PMC7917169 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-021-01338-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE COVID-19 constitutes a worldwide threat, prompting Italian Government to implement specific measures on March 8, 2020, to protect patients and health workers from disease transmission. The impact of preventive measures on daily activity of a radiotherapy facility may hamper the ability to fulfill normal workload burden. Thus, we assessed the number of delivered treatments in a specific observation period after the adoption of preventive measures (since March 11 to April 24, 2020) and compared it with the corresponding period of the year 2019. MATERIALS AND METHODS Overall number of delivered fractions was related to actual time of platform daily activity and reported as a ratio between number of delivered fractions and activity hours (Fr/Hrs). Fr/Hrs were calculated and compared for two different periods of time, March 11-April 24, 2019 (Fr/Hrs1), and March 11-April 24, 2020 (Fr/Hrs2). RESULTS Fr/Hrs1 and Fr/Hrs2 were 2.66 and 2.54 for year 2019 and 2020, respectively, for a Fr/Hrsratio of 1.07 (95% CI 1.03-1.12, p = 0.0005). Fr/Hrs1 was significantly higher than Fr/Hrs2 for SliR and PreciseR, with Fr/Hrsratio of 1.92 (95% CI 1.66-2.23, p < 0.0001) and 1.11 (95% CI 1.03-1.2, p = 0.003), respectively. No significant difference was reported for SynergyR and CyberknifeR with Fr/Hrsratio of 0.99 (95% CI 0.91-1.08, p = 0.8) and 0.9 (95% CI 0.77-1.06, p = 0.2), respectively. Fr/Hrs1 was significantly lower than Fr/Hrs2 for TomotherapyR, with Fr/Hrsratio of 0.88 (95% CI 0.8-0.96, p = 0.007). CONCLUSION Preventive measures did not influence workload burden performed. Automation in treatment delivery seems to compensate effectively for health workers number reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Francolini
- CyberKnife Center, Istituto Fiorentino di Cura ed Assistenza, Radiation Oncology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Viale Morgagni 85, 50134, Florence, Italy.
| | - Isacco Desideri
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Stocchi
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Lucia Pia Ciccone
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Viola Salvestrini
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pietro Garlatti
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Michele Aquilano
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Greto
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Viale Morgagni 85, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Bonomo
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Viale Morgagni 85, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Icro Meattini
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Viale Morgagni 85, 50134, Florence, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Vieri Scotti
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Viale Morgagni 85, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Scoccianti
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Viale Morgagni 85, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriele Simontacchi
- Radiation Oncology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi, Viale Morgagni 85, 50134, Florence, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Livi
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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35
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The Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic and the Response in Low-to-Middle Income Countries. CURRENT BREAST CANCER REPORTS 2021; 13:63-68. [PMID: 33880139 PMCID: PMC8051280 DOI: 10.1007/s12609-021-00409-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The COVID-19 pandemic has posed an unprecedented challenge to healthcare, particularly in resource-constrained low and middle-income countries (LMICs). We aim to summarize the challenges faced by LMICs in providing breast cancer care during the pandemic and their response during this crisis. Recent Findings Conversion of oncology centers into COVID-19 isolation centers and lack of LMIC applicable guidelines for breast cancer treatment worsened the challenge for providers. Few LMICs changed their management framework, taking steps like triaging patients, prioritizing care, therapeutic spacing, and a shift to telehealth. Summary Modified protocols where available have served LMICs well for resource allocation; however, effectiveness of these cannot be determined due to lack of outcomes reporting. This pandemic has underscored the importance of flexibility, prompt intervention, good communication, and reassessment to address unexpected healthcare challenges and has been a learning lesson to help tailor guidelines early in the future.
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O'Neill D, El-Ghobashy A. Impact of COVID-19 on Gynaecological oncology; a global perspective. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06658. [PMID: 33829116 PMCID: PMC8015395 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic caused global devastation with over 2 million deaths and put unprecedented pressure on health care facilities world-wide. The response to the pandemic differed globally as countries faced different challenges. Within Gynaecological oncology, a multitude of guidance was published by various countries and organisations which demonstrated major themes. These consisted of implementations aimed at reducing transmission, managing limited resources, treatment prioritisation whilst continuing urgent oncological surgery where possible and the use of alternative therapies in the management of oncology patients to reduce hospital admission. Due to the novelty of this virus and its global effects, published guidance is currently limited to best practice and small-scale trials. This review aims to summarise the global response to coronavirus with respect to Gynaecological oncology and suggests potential interventions to limit the spread of the virus during resurgence or in the event of a future global pandemic. It also discusses the current trials recruiting relevant to the field of Gynaecological oncology to better inform the specialty on the management of cancer patients during COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle O'Neill
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, The Royal Wolverhampton Hospital NHS Trust, West Midlands, WV10 0QP, United Kingdom
| | - Alaa El-Ghobashy
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, The Royal Wolverhampton Hospital NHS Trust, West Midlands, WV10 0QP, United Kingdom
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Casey DL, Gupta GP, Ollila DW. The Role of Intraoperative Radiation in Early-stage Breast Cancer. Clin Breast Cancer 2021; 21:103-111. [PMID: 34030857 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) is a specialized form of accelerated partial breast irradiation in which a single dose of radiation is delivered to the tumor bed at the time of breast conserving surgery. With completion of radiation to the tumor bed at the time of surgery, IORT promises improved patient convenience, compliance, and quality of life. In addition, with its potentially skin-sparing properties and ability to deliver a high biologically effective dose to the tumor bed while reducing dose to nontarget tissues, IORT results in different but overall less toxicities compared with other modalities of radiation for breast cancer. However, skepticism over the role of IORT in breast cancer exists, and the 2 randomized trials that have analyzed IORT as the definitive radiation component of breast conservation therapy have shown an increase in local recurrence rates with IORT compared with whole breast irradiation, but similar rates of overall survival. In this review, we discuss the practicalities of IORT, the prospective data supporting and negating the role of IORT in lieu of whole breast irradiation, and the toxicity after IORT in early-stage breast cancer. We also review the role of IORT as a radiation boost and specific strategies for successful implementation of IORT in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana L Casey
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC.
| | - Gaorav P Gupta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - David W Ollila
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC
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Park KU, Gregory M, Bazan J, Lustberg M, Rosenberg S, Blinder V, Sharma P, Pusztai L, Shen C, Partridge A, Thompson A. Neoadjuvant endocrine therapy use in early stage breast cancer during the covid-19 pandemic. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2021; 188:249-258. [PMID: 33651271 PMCID: PMC7921279 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-021-06153-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Physician treatment preferences for early stage, estrogen positive breast cancer (ER + BC) patients were evaluated during the initial surge of the COVID-19 pandemic in the US when neoadjuvant endocrine therapy (NET) was recommended to allow safe deferral of surgery. Methods A validated electronic survey was administered May–June, 2020 to US medical oncologists (MO), radiation oncologists (RO), and surgeons (SO) involved in clinical trials organizations. Questions on NET use included practice patterns for locoregional management following NET. Results 114 Physicians from 29 states completed the survey—42 (37%) MO, 14 (12%) RO, and 58 (51%) SO. Before COVID-19, most used NET ‘rarely’ (49/107, 46%) or ‘sometimes’ (36, 33%) for ER + BC. 46% would delay surgery 2 months without NET. The preferred NET regimen was tamoxifen for premenopausal and aromatase inhibitor for postmenopausal women. 53% planned short term NET until surgery could proceed. Most recommended omitting axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) for one micrometastatic node after 1, 2, or 3 months of NET (1 month, N = 56/93, 60%; 2 months, N = 54/92, 59%; 3 months, N = 48/90, 53%). With longer duration of NET, omission of ALND decreased, regardless of years in practice, percent of practice in BC, practice type, participation in multidisciplinary tumor board, or number of regional COVID-19 cases. Conclusion More physicians preferred NET for ER + BC during the pandemic, compared with pre-pandemic times. As the duration of NET extended, more providers favored ALND in low volume metastatic axillary disease. The Covid-19 pandemic affected practice of ER + BC; it remains to be seen how this may impact outcomes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10549-021-06153-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ko Un Park
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 410 W 10th Ave, N908 Doan Hall, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Megan Gregory
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Joey Bazan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Maryam Lustberg
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Shoshana Rosenberg
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Priyanka Sharma
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Westwood, KS, USA
| | - Lajos Pusztai
- Section of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Chengli Shen
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ann Partridge
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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Swanson W, Kamwa F, Samba R, Ige T, Lasebikan N, Mallum A, Ngoma T, Sajo E, Elzawawy A, Incrocci L, Ngwa W. Hypofractionated Radiotherapy in African Cancer Centers. Front Oncol 2021; 10:618641. [PMID: 33680940 PMCID: PMC7933544 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.618641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In the advent of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, professional societies including the American Society for Radiation Oncology and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommended adopting evidence-based hypofractionated radiotherapy (HFRT). HFRT benefits include reduction in the number of clinical visits for each patient, minimizing potential exposure, and reducing stress on the limited workforce, especially in resource-limited settings as in Low-and-Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Recent studies for LMICs in Africa have also shown that adopting HFRT can lead to significant cost reductions and increased access to radiotherapy. We assessed the readiness of 18 clinics in African LMICs to adopting HFRT. An IRB-approved survey was conducted at 18 RT clinics across 8 African countries. The survey requested information regarding the clinic’s existing equipment and human infrastructure and current practices. Amongst the surveyed clinics, all reported to already practicing HFRT, but only 44% of participating clinics reported adopting HFRT as a common practice. Additionally, most participating clinical staff reported to have received formal training appropriate for their role. However, the survey data on treatment planning and other experience with contouring highlighted need for additional training for radiation oncologists. Although the surveyed clinics in African LMICs are familiar with HFRT, there is need for additional investment in infrastructure and training as well as better education of oncology leaders on the benefits of increased adoption of evidence-based HFRT during and beyond the COVID-19 era.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Swanson
- Department of Physics and Applied Physics, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Francesca Kamwa
- Department of Physics and Applied Physics, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Richard Samba
- Department of Regulation and Regulatory Control, Cameroon National Radiation Protection Agency, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Taofeeq Ige
- Department of Medical Physics, National Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria.,Department of Medical Physics, University of Abuja, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Nwamaka Lasebikan
- Department of Radiation Medicine, University of Nigeria-Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Abba Mallum
- Department of Oncology, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, Durban, South Africa
| | - Twalib Ngoma
- Department of Radiology/Radiotherapy, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Erno Sajo
- Department of Physics and Applied Physics, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Ahmed Elzawawy
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Luca Incrocci
- Department of Radiotherapy, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wilfred Ngwa
- Department of Physics and Applied Physics, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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40
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Taylor JM, Song A, Nowak K, Dan T, Simone B, Harrison A, Doyle L, Lockamy V, Anne P, Simone N. Dosimetric Comparisons of Simulation Techniques for Left-Sided Breast Cancer in the COVID-19 Era: Techniques to Reduce Viral Transmission and Respect the Therapeutic Ratio. Cureus 2021; 13:e13354. [PMID: 33747655 PMCID: PMC7968704 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.13354] [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] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic challenges our ability to safely treat breast cancer patients and requires revisiting current techniques to evaluate optimal strategies. Potential long-term sequelae of breast radiation have been addressed by deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH), prone positioning, and four-dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) average intensity projection (AveIP)-based planning techniques. Dosimetric comparisons to determine the optimal technique to minimize the normal tissue dose for left-sided breast cancers have not been performed. Methods Ten patients with left-sided, early-stage breast cancer undergoing whole breast radiation were simulated in the prone position, supine with DIBH, and with a free-breathing 4DCT scan. The target and organs at risk (OAR) contours were delineated in all scans. Target volume coverage and OAR doses were assessed. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA were used to detect differences in dosimetric parameters among the different treatment plans. Significance was set as p < 0.05. Results We demonstrate differences in heart and lung dose by the simulation technique. The mean heart doses in the prone, DIBH, and AveIP plans were 129 cGy, 154 cGy, and 262 cGy, respectively (p=0.02). The lung V20 in the prone, DIBH, and AveIP groups was 0.5%, 10.3% and 9.5%, respectively (p <0.001). Regardless of technique, lumpectomy planning target volume (PTV) coverage did not differ between the three plans with 95% of the lumpectomy PTV volume covered by 100.4% in prone plans, 98.5% in AveIP plans, and 99.3% in DIBH plans (p=0.7). Conclusions Prone positioning provides dosimetric advantages as compared to DIBH. When infection risks are considered as in the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, prone plans have advantages in reducing the risk of disease transmission. In instances where prone positioning is not feasible, obtaining an AveIP simulation may be useful in more accurately assessing heart and lung toxicity and informing a risk/benefit discussion of DIBH vs free breath-hold techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M Taylor
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Andrew Song
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Kamila Nowak
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Tu Dan
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Brittany Simone
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Amy Harrison
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Laura Doyle
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Virginia Lockamy
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Pramila Anne
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Nicole Simone
- Radiation Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
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Moderate hypofractionation remains the standard of care for whole-breast radiotherapy in breast cancer: Considerations regarding FAST and FAST-Forward. Strahlenther Onkol 2021; 197:269-280. [PMID: 33507331 PMCID: PMC7841378 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-020-01744-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Moderate hypofractionation is the standard of care for adjuvant whole-breast radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer. Recently, 10-year results from the FAST and 5‑year results from the FAST-Forward trial evaluating adjuvant whole-breast radiotherapy in 5 fractions over 5 weeks or 1 week have been published. This article summarizes recent data for moderate hypofractionation and results from the FAST and FAST-Forward trial on ultra-hypofractionation. While the FAST trial was not powered for comparison of local recurrence rates, FAST-Forward demonstrated non-inferiority for two ultra-hypofractionated regimens in terms of local control. In both trials, the higher-dose experimental arms resulted in elevated rates of late toxicity. For the lower dose experimental arms of 28.5 Gy over 5 weeks and 26 Gy over 1 week, moderate or marked late effects were similar in the majority of documented items compared to the respective standard arms, but significantly worse in some subdomains. The difference between the standard arm and the 26 Gy of the FAST-Forward trial concerning moderate or marked late effects increased with longer follow-up in disadvantage of the experimental arm for most items. For now, moderate hypofractionation with 40–42.5 Gy over 15–16 fractions remains the standard of care for the majority of patients with breast cancer who undergo whole-breast radiotherapy without regional nodal irradiation after breast-conserving surgery.
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Kurniawan A, Halim DA, Giselvania A, Sutandyo N, Panigoro SS, Adisasmita A, Hatma RD. Breast Cancer Management during Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: A Literature Review. ASIAN JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1722809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer found in women. The World Health Organization declared the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a public health emergency of international concern. Delaying treatment was associated with mortality. The aim is to evaluate breast cancer management during the pandemic.
Methods We searched articles evaluating the management of breast cancer in the midst of COVID-19 outbreak, by searching in PubMed, PubMed Central, and Oncology Society related websites. We only included articles discussing adult breast cancer management in COVID-19 era. The two reviewers screened the titles and abstracts.
Results Around 124 articles were found through the searching process. Eight observational trials, two review articles, six guidelines or recommendations, and one letter to the editor were included in final review. It was concluded that breast cancer posed a risk to contract COVID-19. Newly suspected breast cancer could be deferred for screening or diagnosis, except for special breast cancer cases with bleeding, invasive, and complicated tumors. The benefit of radiotherapy option in every case should be carefully weighed against the risk of infection. Oral chemotherapy and hormonal therapy drugs were preferred to be given than intravenous chemotherapy. The scheduled chemotherapy could be adjusted to reduce hospital visit. Each breast cancer patient is different, so they should be discussed in multidisciplinary team consisting of surgical, radiation, and medical oncologists, pathologist, radiologist, palliative care people, nurses, nutritionist, and others related to the field.
Conclusion The International Oncology Society has released recommendations for breast cancer during COVID-19 pandemic but there is still questionable-quality evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andree Kurniawan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pelita Harapan University, Tangerang, Indonesia
- Clinical Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | | | - Angela Giselvania
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Noorwati Sutandyo
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Dharmais Cancer Center Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Sonar Soni Panigoro
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Asri Adisasmita
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
| | - Ratna Djuwita Hatma
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Indonesia
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Lee S, Yadav P, van der Kogel AJ, Bayouth J, Bassetti MF. In Silico Single-Fraction Stereotactic Ablative Radiation Therapy for the Treatment of Thoracic and Abdominal Oligometastatic Disease With Online Adaptive Magnetic Resonance Guidance. Adv Radiat Oncol 2021; 6:100652. [PMID: 34195490 PMCID: PMC8233469 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2021.100652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Although SABR can improve oncologic outcomes for patients with oligometastatic disease, treatment of metastases near critical organs remains challenging. The purpose of this study is to determine the dosimetric feasibility of delivering magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided adaptive SABR in a single fraction for abdominal and thoracic metastases. Methods and Materials Previously delivered MRI-guided radiation therapy plans for 20 patients with oligometastatic disease in the thorax or abdomen, with 70% (14/20) of the lesions within 8 mm from dose-limiting organs at risk (OARs), were used to simulate the delivery of 24 Gy in a single fraction. Planning objectives included planning target volume (PTV) V95% >90%, optimized PTV (PTVopt) V95% >90%, and PTVopt D99% >20 Gy with no OAR dose violations, where PTVopt removed overlap with nearby planning organ at risk volume (PRV). Single-fraction plans were simulated on the first 5 daily setup breath-hold MRI scans, and the plans were reoptimized to consider variations in setup position and anatomy. Results The mean PTV V95% for single-fraction SABR plans was lower compared with multifraction plans (mean 85.4% vs 92.6%, P = .02), but mean PTVopt V95% was not different (95.3% vs 98.2%, P = .62). After reoptimization of the single-fraction plan to the treatment day MRI, there was an increase in mean PTV V95% (85.0% vs 88.1%, P = .05), increase in mean PTVopt V95% (92.7% vs 96.3%, P = .02), increase in mean PTVopt D99% (19.7 Gy vs 23.8 Gy, P < .01), increase in mean frequency of meeting PTV D99% >20 Gy (52% vs 87%, P < .01), and increase in mean gross tumor volume minimum dose (17.5 Gy vs 19.3 Gy, P < .01). Reoptimization decreased mean frequency of OAR dose constraint violation (48% vs 0%, P < .01). Conclusions Single-fraction MRI-guided SABR is a dosimetrically feasible treatment for oligometastases that allows for on-table adaptation to avoid OAR dose constraint violations, but this method requires clinical validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangjune Lee
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin.,Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Poonam Yadav
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Albert J van der Kogel
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - John Bayouth
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Michael F Bassetti
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison, Wisconsin
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Triple-Negative Breast Cancer and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Clinical Management Perspectives and Potential Consequences of Infection. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13020296. [PMID: 33467411 PMCID: PMC7830590 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13020296] [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: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in challenges to cancer management, exacerbated by limited clinical resources and caution in preventing COVID-19 transmission between patients and healthcare professionals. The neglect of breast cancer (in particular, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)) patients during the outbreak could negatively impact their overall survival, as delays in treatment and consultations provide vital time for tumor progression and metastasis. Herein, we review the shifting clinical management of TNBCs during the COVID-19 outbreak. The suggested treatment recommendations can hopefully minimize virus exposure without sacrificing patient care during times when healthcare systems are overburdened. Further, we review published RNA-seq data to assess the theoretical infectability of metastatic TNBCs to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. These analyses highlight the potential of the virus to infect TNBC cells. Given the known increased susceptibility of cancer cells to viral infection, this additional host cell reservoir may make patients with metastatic disease particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 morbidities. Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the need for prioritization strategies for breast cancer treatment, where patients with aggressive disease, such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) are a high priority for clinical intervention. In this review, we summarize how COVID-19 has thus far impacted the management of TNBC and highlighted where more information is needed to hone shifting guidelines. Due to the immunocompromised state of most TNBC patients receiving treatment, TNBC management during the pandemic presents challenges beyond the constraints of overburdened healthcare systems. We conducted a literature search of treatment recommendations for both primary and targeted TNBC therapeutic strategies during the COVID-19 outbreak and noted changes to treatment timing and drugs of choice. Further, given that SARS-CoV-2 is a respiratory virus, which has systemic consequences, management of TNBC patients with metastatic versus localized disease has additional considerations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Published dataset gene expression analysis of critical SARS-CoV-2 cell entry proteins in TNBCs suggests that the virus could in theory infect metastasized TNBC cells it contacts. This may have unforeseen consequences in terms of both the dynamics of the resulting acute viral infection and the progression of the chronic metastatic disease. Undoubtedly, the results thus far suggest that more research is required to attain a full understanding of the direct and indirect clinical impacts of COVID-19 on TNBC patients.
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45
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Cocco D, Valente SA. Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping and Biopsy in Breast Cancer Patients During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Ann Surg Oncol 2021; 28:4056-4057. [PMID: 33432488 PMCID: PMC7799421 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-020-09554-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Cocco
- Breast Services, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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46
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Datta NR, Datta S, Samiei M. Strategies to Maximize Available Resources With Minimum Cost Escalation for Improving Radiation Therapy Accessibility in the Post-Coronavirus Disease 2019 Era: An Analysis for Asia. Adv Radiat Oncol 2021; 6:100565. [PMID: 32995668 PMCID: PMC7513874 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2020.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE There is widespread accord among economists that the corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic will have a severe negative effect on the global economy. Establishing new radiation therapy (RT) infrastructure may be significantly compromised in the post-COVID-19 era. Alternative strategies are needed to improve the existing RT accessibility without significant cost escalation. The outcomes of these approaches on RT availability have been examined for Asia. METHODS AND MATERIALS The details of RT infrastructures in 2020 for 51 countries in Asia were obtained from the Directory of Radiotherapy Centers of the International Atomic Energy Agency. Using the International Atomic Energy Agency guidelines, the percent of RT accessibility and the additional requirements of teletherapy (TRT) units were computed for these countries. To maximize the utilization of the existing RT facilities, 5 options were evaluated, namely, hypofractionation RT (HFRT) alone, with/without 25% or 50% additional working hours. The effect of these strategies on the percent of RT access and additional TRT unit requirements to achieve 100% RT access were estimated. RESULTS In 46 countries, 4617 TRT units are available. The mean percent of RT accessibility is 62.4% in 43 countries (TRT units = 4491) where the information on cancer incidence was also available, and these would need an additional 6474 TRT units for achieving 100% RT accessibility. By adopting HFRT alone, increasing the working hours by 25% alone, 25% with HFRT, 50% alone, and 50% with HFRT, the percent of RT access could improve to 74.9%, 78%, 90.5%, 93.7%, and 106.1%, respectively. Correspondingly, the need for additional TRT units would progressively decrease to 4646, 4284, 3073, 2820, and 1958 units. CONCLUSIONS The economic slowdown in the post-COVID-19 period could severely impend establishment of new RT facilities. Thus, maximal utilization of the available RT infrastructure with minimum additional costs could be possible by adopting HFRT with or without increased working hours to improve the RT coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloy R. Datta
- Centre for Radiation Oncology KSA-KSB, Kantonsspital Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Sneha Datta
- Independent Researcher, London, United Kingdom
| | - Massoud Samiei
- International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Vienna, Austria
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47
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Radiotherapy challenges in COVID era. BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING TOOLS FOR MANAGEMENT FOR PATIENTS WITH COVID-19 2021. [PMCID: PMC8192315 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-824473-9.00009-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The pandemic caused by the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) associated with a disease named COVID-19 by the World Health Organization that began in late 2019 in Wuhan city has become a global public health problem. Only 2 months later, the new virus affected most countries of the world, the consequence being an overload of health systems, especially Intensive Care Units. Considered a category of patients at high risk of developing severe forms of the disease, cancer patients can develop a severe form of the disease, complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome requiring mechanical ventilation. Radiotherapy, as a treatment included in the multidisciplinary management of cancer for both curative and palliative purposes, is also affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19-positive or -suspected patients are a special category for which the decision to postpone treatment should be made based on the particularities of tumor biology and the radiobiological effect of a gap in radiation fractions delivery. Emergencies including spinal cord compressions, tumor bleeding, and brain metastases not responsive to corticosteroid treatment, should be considered a priority but the palliative treatment should be limited from one single fraction to maximum five fractions for spinal cord compression and whole brain radiotherapy. Radiotherapy for brain metastases does not bring a benefit in terms of overall survival for patients with life expectancy of days or weeks and dexamethasone treatment is the correct choice in this situation. In all settings, the approach of radiotherapy treatment must be adapted for both scenarios of an outbreak pandemic, when general measures of social distancing and protection by specific equipment of patients and radiotherapy staff are a priority, but also for a long period of coexistence with the virus with possible new “pandemic waves.”
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Parmar HS, Nayak A, Gavel PK, Jha HC, Bhagwat S, Sharma R. Cross Talk between COVID-19 and Breast Cancer. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2021; 21:575-600. [PMID: 33593260 DOI: 10.2174/1568009621666210216102236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cancer patients are more susceptible to COVID-19; however, the prevalence of COVID-19 in different types of cancer is still inconsistent and inconclusive. Here, we delineate the intricate relationship between breast cancer and COVID-19. Breast cancer and COVID-19 share the involvement of common comorbidities, hormonal signalling pathways, gender differences, rennin- angiotensin system (RAS), angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2), transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) and dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV). We also shed light on the possible effects of therapeutic modalities of COVID-19 on breast cancer outcomes. Briefly, we conclude that breast cancer patients are more susceptible to COVID-19 in comparison with their normal counterparts. Women are more resistant to the occurrence and severity of COVID-19. Increased expressions of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are correlated with occurrence and severity of COVID-19, but higher expression of ACE2 and lower expression of TMPRSS2 are prognostic markers for overall disease free survival in breast cancer. The ACE2 inhibitors and ibuprofen therapies for COVID-19 treatment may aggravate the clinical condition of breast cancer patients through chemo-resistance and metastasis. Most of the available therapeutic modalities for COVID-19 were also found to exert positive effects on breast cancer outcomes. Besides drugs in clinical trend, TMPRSS2 inhibitors, estrogen supplementation, androgen deprivation and DPP-IV inhibitors may also be used to treat breast cancer patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. However, drug-drug interactions suggest that some of the drugs used for the treatment of COVID-19 may modulate the drug metabolism of anticancer therapies which may lead to adverse drug reaction events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aakruti Nayak
- School of Biotechnology, Devi Ahilya University, Indore-452001. M.P., India
| | - Pramod Kumar Gavel
- Department of Chemical Sciences, IIT, Indore, Simrol, Indore, M.P., India
| | - Hem Chandra Jha
- Department of Bioscience and Bioengineering, IIT, Indore, Simrol, Indore, M.P., India
| | - Shivani Bhagwat
- Suraksha Diagnostics Pvt. Ltd., Newtown, Rajarhat, Kolkata-West Bengal, India
| | - Rajesh Sharma
- School of Pharmacy, Devi Ahilya University, Indore-452001., M.P., India
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Hafez A, Abdelaziz DM, Khalil MM, El-Nagdy MS. The necessity of using deep inspiration breath-hold in the radiotherapy of left breast cancer patients who undergo the UK FAST trial. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2021; 7:015004. [DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/abc9f7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Aim
: The purpose of the current study was to compare between deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) and free-breathing (FB) method in the setup reproducibility and to perform a dosimetric comparison between both methods in left-sided breast cancer patients who undergo the UK FAST trial.
Materials and methods
: The online matching correction data were retrospectively collected for 50 patients treated with the FAST trial. They were equally divided into DIBH and FB groups to compare between both methods in the setup reproducibility and create the appropriate planning target volume (PTV) margin. Ten patients out of the fifty were scanned in DIBH and FB to perform a dosimetric comparison with the strict acceptance criteria of the FAST trial.
Results
: All heart dosimetric parameters of the DIBH was significantly lower than that of FB (p < 0.001), and the lung V30% of DIBH plans was significantly lower than FB plans (p = 0.03). There was no statistically significant difference between the two methods in the other organs at risk doses. To fulfill the heart and lung constraints in FB plans, the PTV V90% was reduced by 3.4%, and three plans would not attain the PTV acceptance criteria. There was no significant difference between the systematic or random setup errors between both methods except the left-right random shift was significantly lower in DIBH cases (p = 0.004). The calculated PTV margins were (4 mm, 3 mm, and 4 mm) for DIBH group, and (5 mm, 6 mm, and 8 mm) for FB group in the anterior-posterior, superior-inferior, and left-right shifts, respectively.
Conclusion
: It is highly warranted to treat left-sided breast cancer patients with the DIBH technique when the UK FAST trial is employed for treatment.
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50
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Leonardi MC, Montagna E, Galimberti VE, Zaffaroni M, Rojas DP, Dicuonzo S, Zerella MA, Morra A, Sangalli C, Gandini S, Colleoni M, Veronesi P, Gerardi MA, Alterio D, Lazzari R, Sarra Fiore M, Bufi G, Cattani F, Mastrilli F, Orecchia R, Jereczek-Fossa BA. Breast Adjuvant Radiotherapy Amid the COVID-19 Crisis in a Hub Cancer Center, Lombardy, Italy. BREAST CARE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 5:1-7. [PMID: 34191930 PMCID: PMC7801963 DOI: 10.1159/000513227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Introduction During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lombardy (Northern Italy) Regional Health Council created hubs for cancer care, meant to be SARS-CoV-2-free pathways for cancer patients. The workflow of breast cancer (BC) radiotherapy (RT) in one of the hubs is presented here. Methods Candidates to adjuvant RT during the pandemic peak of March-April 2020 were compared to those treated in the same period of 2019, and patient volume, deferral rate, and type of RT were analyzed. Statistics were calculated with χ<sup>2</sup> or Fisher exact tests for categorical variables, and the Wilcoxon rank test for continuous variables. Results In March-April 2020 the BC patient volume increased by 28% compared to the same period in 2019 (scheduled patients: 175 vs. 137) and amid travel restrictions it was kept high (treated patients: 136 vs. 133), mainly due to an influx from across Lombardy. RT schemes basically did not change, being already centered on hypofractionation. The increase of median time (67 vs. 74.5 days in 2019 and 2020, respectively) to the commencement of RT for low-risk patients was clinically negligible yet statistically significant (p = 0.03), and in line with the pertinent recommendations. No significant difference was found in the time interval between treatments and RT for high-risk patients. Concomitant chemoradiotherapy was avoided throughout the pandemic peak. Twenty-one women (13.6%) delayed either computed tomography simulation or RT commencement mainly because of COVID-19-related concerns and mobility restrictions. Conclusion The workload for BC was high during the pandemic peak. Hubs allowed the continuation of oncologic treatments, while mitigating the strain on frontline COVID-19 hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emilia Montagna
- Division of Medical Senology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Mattia Zaffaroni
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Damaris Patricia Rojas
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Samantha Dicuonzo
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Alessia Zerella
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Morra
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Sangalli
- Division of Data Management, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Gandini
- Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Colleoni
- Division of Medical Senology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Veronesi
- Division of Breast Surgery, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Alterio
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Lazzari
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Sarra Fiore
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giammaria Bufi
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Cattani
- Unit of Medical Physics, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Mastrilli
- Medical Administration, CMO, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Orecchia
- Scientific Direction, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Alicja Jereczek-Fossa
- Division of Radiation Oncology, IEO, European Institute of Oncology, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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