Patients' perception of information after completion of adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer

The aims of the present study were to examine patients' perceptions of received information and satisfaction with information after completion of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) for breast cancer. Associations between satisfaction with information and health related quality of life (HRQoL), and clinical variables were also studied.

A total of 93 consecutive women planned for adjuvant RT were asked to complete two questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-INFO25) in connection with their last treatment.

A total of 88 patients (95%) responded. The mean values for the information subscale scores, on a 0 to 100 point scale (QLQ-INFO25) regarding "the treatments" and "the disease" were 46 and 53 respectively. A total of 48% of the patients expressed a wish for more information. Patients treated with chemotherapy previous to RT reported statistically significant lower levels of information about "the disease". Age was statistically significant related to satisfaction with received information. Younger women were less satisfied with the information received, and a higher proportion wanted more information (55%), as well among women treated with chemotherapy previous to RT (63%). Patients satisfied with information scored significantly higher on global health status and emotional functioning and reported less fatigue. Positive associations were found between "satisfaction with information" and HRQoL.

Improvements of information to breast cancer patients during their treatments are needed. The results also underline the need for patient-centred information in general and that extra attention should be paid to younger women and patients undergoing combined treatment.