Perceptions of Prophylactic Mastectomy in Korea

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Public Health

Background:

• Prophylactic mastectomy is increasingly evaluated for breast cancer prevention.
• Hereditary breast cancer constitutes 5%-10% of all cases, highlighting the potential impact of preventive mastectomy.
• Prophylactic mastectomy is rarely performed in Korea, necessitating an assessment of local attitudes and awareness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Korean attitudes toward and awareness of preventive mastectomy.
• To understand the reasons behind the low uptake of prophylactic mastectomy in Korea.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study involving patients and their relatives attending outpatient clinics.
• Data collection via self-administered questionnaires on demographics, breast cancer knowledge, and prophylactic mastectomy understanding.
• Assessment of attitudes, willingness to undergo the procedure, and reasons for refusal.

Main Results:

• Only 9% of respondents understood prophylactic mastectomy, and 27% would consider it.
• Key reasons for refusal included aesthetic concerns (38%), perceived ineffectiveness (26%), surgical risks (24%), and cost (6%).
• Most respondents (over 50%) were college graduates aged 40-49.

Conclusions:

• A significant lack of knowledge regarding prophylactic mastectomy exists among the Korean population studied.
• Establishing clear medical guidelines is essential for providing accurate information and appropriate treatment for high-risk breast cancer patients.
• Addressing patient concerns, including aesthetics, efficacy, safety, and cost, is vital for increasing acceptance of prophylactic mastectomy.