An Integrated Care Approach to Improve Well-Being in Breast Cancer Patients

Curr Oncol Rep. 2024 Apr;26(4):346-358. doi: 10.1007/s11912-024-01500-1. Epub 2024 Feb 24.

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer (BC) treatment has recently been revolutionized by the introduction of newer targeted agents, that helped tailoring therapies around the single patient. Along with increased survival rates, a careful evaluation of diet, lifestyle habits, physical activity, emotional and psychological experiences linked to the treatment journey, is now mandatory. However, a true proposal for an omnicomprehensive and "integrative" approach is still lacking in literature.

Methods: A scientific board of internationally recognized specialists throughout different disciplines designed a shared proposal of holistic approach for BC patients.

Results: A narrative review, containing information on BC treatment, endocrinological and diet aspects, physical activity, rehabilitation, integrative medicine, and digital narrative medicine, was developed.

Conclusions: In the context of a patient-centered care, BC treatment cannot be separated from a patient's long-term follow-up and care, and an organized interdisciplinary collaboration is the future in this disease's cure, to make sure that our patients will live longer and better.

Trial registration: NCT05893368: New Model for Integrating Person-based Care (PbC) in the Treatment of Advanced HER2-negative Breast Cancer (PERGIQUAL). Registration date: 29th May 2023.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Cancer prevention; Integrative oncology; Multidisciplinary approach; Oncology and metabolism; Personalized medicine; Tailored oncology.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Delivery of Health Care, Integrated*
  • Diet
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Integrative Medicine*
  • Life Style

Associated data

  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT05893368