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Financial Toxicity in Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma
Eliora A Tesfaye1, Rebecca C O'Neill2, Terri McGregor3
1From the Department of Plastic Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|November 23, 2023
Summary
Financial toxicity is common in breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) patients, significantly impacting their quality of life and financial stability. Early risk assessments and cost discussions are crucial to mitigate the financial burden associated with BIA-ALCL treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Health Economics
- Patient-Reported Outcomes
Background:
- Financial toxicity poses a significant threat to patient adherence, quality of life, and survival.
- Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) treatment incurs substantial costs, from diagnosis through adjuvant therapy and surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of financial toxicity among patients diagnosed with BIA-ALCL.
- To evaluate the patient-reported financial burden associated with BIA-ALCL.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 32 women diagnosed with BIA-ALCL between December 2019 and March 2023.
- Financial toxicity was assessed using the Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST) and a dedicated survey on the financial impact of BIA-ALCL.
- Patient data were linked to medical records for comprehensive analysis.
Main Results:
- The mean COST score was 27.9 (±2.23), indicating prevalent financial toxicity.
- Lower COST scores correlated with radiotherapy, maxing out credit cards, living paycheck to paycheck, needing financial aid, and financial instability.
- Insurance denials were frequent among patients with prior cosmetic augmentation history.
Conclusions:
- Financial toxicity is a significant issue for BIA-ALCL patients, affecting their reported well-being.
- Proactive risk assessments and financial discussions are essential throughout the patient care journey.
- Addressing financial toxicity can help minimize the overall burden on patients undergoing BIA-ALCL treatment.
