B44
Exploring the breast cancer experiences, needs and preferences of women aged 70 years and over: study findings
Cindy Brooks1, Claire Foster1, Debbie Fenlon1, Jodie Moffat1, Richard Stephens4, Sheila Payne2, Peter Coleman1, Peter Simmonds1, Bronagh Walsh1, Jane Seymour3, Julia Addington-Hall1
1University of Southampton, UK, 2University of Lancaster, Lancaster, UK, 3University of Nottingham, UK, 4NCRI Consumer Liaison Group, London, UK
Background
Over a third of breast cancer cases are diagnosed in women aged 70 years and over; many with other health conditions. However the breast cancer experiences of these women have largely been neglected. This study explored older womens breast cancer experiences in the context of age-related co-morbidities to inform the development of information and supportive interventions for the increasing numbers of older women with breast cancer.
Method
Thirty interviews and two focus groups were conducted with women aged over 70 who have experienced breast cancer and have one or more co-morbidities, recruited via media advertising. The interviews were analysed in accordance to The Framework Approach (Ritchie and Spencer 1994).
Results
Key analytical themes indicate that the impact of breast cancer is long-lasting continuing to affect womens lives many years following treatment. A core finding is the concept of invisibility, and how participants felt their preferences and needs
were neglected throughout their breast cancer experiences. This includes inadequate information and support relating to treatment, surgery, post operative care, reconstruction surgery, bras and prostheses. Long-term issues concern increasing morbidity such as the impact of arthritis on the fitting and wearing of prosthesis.
Conclusion
These findings indicate that women aged 70 years and over confront a range of exclusionary practices throughout their breast cancer experiences. Consequently this study suggests the need for more communication and support for older women with breast cancer throughout their breast cancer experiences, and specific consideration of the impact of other health conditions on practicalities of living with breast cancer.
