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Overcoming Barriers to Breast-Conserving Therapy Post-Neoadjuvant Treatment: Strategies for Multidisciplinary Collaboration and Patient Support
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Archives of Surgical Oncology

ISSN: 2471-2671

Open Access

Short Communication - (2023) Volume 9, Issue 2

Overcoming Barriers to Breast-Conserving Therapy Post-Neoadjuvant Treatment: Strategies for Multidisciplinary Collaboration and Patient Support

Peter Pfob*
*Correspondence: Peter Pfob, Department of Surgery and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria, Email:
Department of Surgery and Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria

Received: 29-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. aso-23-98378; Editor assigned: 01-Apr-2023, Pre QC No. P-98378; Reviewed: 17-Apr-2023, QC No. Q-98378; Revised: 22-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. R-98378; Published: 29-Apr-2023 , DOI: 10.37421/2471-2671.2023.9.38
Citation: Pfob, Peter. “Overcoming Barriers to Breast-Conserving Therapy Post-Neoadjuvant Treatment: Strategies for Multidisciplinary Collaboration and Patient Support.’’ Arch Surg Oncol 09 (2023): 38.
Copyright: © 2023 Pfob P. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Introduction

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting women worldwide. It is estimated that one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. While there are several treatment options available, Breast- Conserving Therapy (BCT) has emerged as a popular choice for many patients. BCT involves the removal of the tumor while preserving the breast tissue, followed by radiation therapy to the breast. This approach has been shown to be as effective as mastectomy in treating early-stage breast cancer, while also offering the benefit of preserving the appearance and sensation of the breast. Despite the proven benefits of BCT, its utilization remains lower than expected, particularly after Neoadjuvant Treatment (NAT). NAT involves the use of chemotherapy or hormone therapy before surgery to shrink the tumor, making it easier to remove. While NAT can increase the likelihood of BCT eligibility, it can also pose challenges to the process of breast conservation. In recent years, several studies have investigated the reasons for the underuse of BCT after NAT. The findings have highlighted several clinical, socio-economic and psychological factors that contribute to the low utilization of BCT after NAT [1].

Description

One of the primary clinical factors is the size of the residual tumor after NAT. If the tumor size remains large, it may not be possible to remove it completely while preserving breast tissue, making mastectomy the only option. Other clinical factors include the location of the tumor and the involvement of the lymph nodes. Socio-economic factors such as lack of health insurance or financial resources can also limit a patient's ability to choose BCT. Psychological factors such as fear of recurrence or loss of femininity can also influence a patient's decision [2].

To address these challenges, multidisciplinary teams are essential. These teams typically include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and other healthcare professionals who work together to provide coordinated care. Collaboration between these teams can improve the delivery of NAT and BCT, leading to improved outcomes for patients. Optimized counseling is another important component of BCT after NAT. Patients need to be informed about the benefits and risks of BCT, as well as the available treatment options. This counseling should be personalized to address the patient's unique clinical, socioeconomic and psychological factors [3].

Financial support can also play a critical role in increasing the utilization of BCT after NAT. Programs that offer financial assistance for breast cancer treatment can help alleviate the financial burden for patients who may otherwise be unable to choose BCT. BCT after NAT requires complex, multidisciplinary teamwork to overcome the challenges that limit its utilization. By addressing clinical, socio-economic and psychological factors through collaboration, counseling and financial support, more patients can benefit from this effective treatment approach while preserving their breast tissue and quality of life [4].

Breast cancer is a complex disease that affects millions of women worldwide. While advances in diagnosis and treatment have improved outcomes, many challenges remain, particularly when it comes to addressing the clinical, socioeconomic and psychological factors that can impact a patient's journey. Clinical factors such as tumor size, location and lymph node involvement can influence treatment decisions and outcomes. Socio-economic factors such as access to care, insurance coverage and financial resources can also impact a patient's ability to receive timely and effective treatment. Psychological factors such as anxiety, depression and fear can also affect a patient's overall well-being and ability to cope with their diagnosis and treatment [5].

To address these challenges, healthcare professionals must work together in interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive, coordinated care. These teams typically include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, social workers and other specialists who collaborate to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient. Optimized counseling is also essential to address the complex interplay between clinical, socio-economic and psychological factors. Patients need to be informed about their treatment options, the benefits and risks of each approach and the potential impact on their quality of life. Counseling should be tailored to address the patient's unique needs, concerns and preferences.

Conclusion

Financial support is also critical to ensure that all patients have access to the care they need. Programs that offer financial assistance for breast cancer treatment, such as patient assistance programs, government-funded healthcare programs and community-based organizations, can help alleviate the financial burden for patients who may otherwise be unable to afford treatment. In addition to these solutions, advances in technology and research are also helping to improve outcomes for breast cancer patients. For example, genetic testing can identify patients who may benefit from targeted therapies, while innovative surgical techniques can help preserve breast tissue and improve cosmetic outcomes. Breast cancer is a complex disease that requires a multidisciplinary approach to address the clinical, socio-economic and psychological factors that can impact a patient's journey. Through collaboration, counseling and financial support, healthcare professionals can help ensure that all patients have access to timely, effective and personalized care.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

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