Perspectives of Young Women with Breast Cancer: Patient Experiences Indicate Opportunities to Improve Treatment.

Abstract

In this focus group study of 11 women younger than 45 years of age treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, NY, USA) between March 2020 and April 2021, patients were asked about their preferences for types of resources, and timing and method of information delivery. Patients expressed interest in personalized medicine, access to integrative health and a holistic approach to treatment, and early consultation for fertility preservation. Their narratives elaborated on how age at diagnosis influences interpersonal relationships and quality of life, and provides direction for interventions to better counsel and support this population.