Factors Influencing Adherence to Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy After Breast Cancer Surgery

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Endocrinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) is standard for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.
• A significant number of patients exhibit poor adherence to AET.
• Understanding adherence factors is critical for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify demographic, social, psychological, and treatment-related factors affecting AET adherence in early-stage breast cancer patients.
• To analyze predictors of adherence over a 5-year period.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective medical record review and questionnaire study of 81 women.
• Utilized Swedish Prescribed Drug Register data for adherence assessment.
• Followed patients for 5 years of prescribed AET.

Main Results:

• 83% of women were adherent, 12% partially adherent, and 5% never accepted AET.
• Younger age, perceived health, and life satisfaction were associated with non-adherence.
• Vocational and family life satisfaction positively correlated with adherence.
• Adherent patients reported more cumulative musculoskeletal and psychological side effects, including lower sexual desire.

Conclusions:

• Patient's life situation and satisfaction are key factors in AET adherence.
• Support is needed to help women complete AET and manage side effects.
• Further investigation into reasons for non-initiation of therapy is warranted.