Study Reveals Breast Surgeons Often Overlook Breast Reconstruction Discussions in Breast Cancer Treatment Decisions
A recent study sheds light on a concerning trend: many women facing breast cancer treatment decisions aren’t adequately informed about the option of breast reconstruction following mastectomy, researchers confirm. According to findings, when these crucial conversations do take place, a significant number of women opt for mastectomy.
The study, involving 1,178 women who underwent breast cancer surgery, uncovered a startling statistic: only 33 percent reported their surgeon discussing breast reconstruction during the decision-making process for surgery.
Lead researcher Dr. Amy K. Alderman of the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor expressed surprise at the lack of information provided to patients regarding breast reconstruction options. Notably, the data revealed that discussions about reconstruction were more common among younger and more educated women.
Published in the esteemed medical journal Cancer, the survey highlighted a significant correlation: women who engaged in conversations about breast reconstruction with their surgeon were four times more likely to choose mastectomy over other options compared to those who didn’t have such discussions.
Dr. Alderman emphasized the importance of ensuring women are fully informed about all available surgical options for breast cancer, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, and mastectomy with reconstruction. She stressed that each option offers viable long-term survival outcomes.
Breast reconstruction, Dr. Alderman noted, is a deeply personal decision influenced by factors such as body image, sexuality, and fear of recurrence. She emphasized the need for women to be empowered as informed consumers of their healthcare.
Dr. Alderman called on physicians to ensure comprehensive information dissemination, regardless of a patient’s education or socioeconomic status, to enable informed decision-making in breast cancer care.
At PRMA, we believe in shared decision making for all patients, and highly encourage everyone looking at their mastectomy and breast reconstructions options to take an active role in their treatment plan and download The Breast Advocate App®. Co-created by leading specialists and patient advocates, Breast Advocate® is a free breast cancer surgery app that provides ALL your surgical options along with evidence-based recommendations, personalized for you.
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