Close follow-up of early breast cancer patients in Greece. A single-center survey based on a one-to-one interview with questions. A cross-sectional descriptive study

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Follow-up protocols for breast cancer patients differ among different countries and health systems. Our institutional guidelines suggest close follow-up with a physical exam followed by a breast ultrasound every 6 months and mammography and Dexa scans annually. Imaging of the abdomen, pelvis, and brain is based on the physician's choice. We aimed to estimate breast cancer patients’ preferences in Greece concerning their follow-up care program, given the information that no differences were detected in overall survival in patients who followed an intensive program compared to patients who followed a less frequent program. Materials and Methods In total, 283 non-metastatic breast cancer patients were asked on an individual basis how they found their follow-up protocol and if they wished changes to be made. A 20-question survey was used. Results In total, 22.7% of participants preferred less frequent follow-up (PLFF) care. Overall, 88.3% of patients did not consider the number of tests excessive, and 77.3% of participants did not prefer to be tested less frequently. The percentage of PLFF is higher when patients have undergone surgery recently and decreases with time from the surgery (-0.124, p < 0.05). PLFF is also negatively associated with feeling secure as a result of frequent examination (-1.86, p < 0.01). In contrast, a positive association with PLFF (0.883, p < 0.05) was observed among patients who did not receive chemotherapy. Conclusion Our findings highlight that patients’ reported follow-up care preferences should be considered when planning the follow-up protocols in the healthcare system.