Perceptions of Delayed Alopecia Among Breast Cancer Survivors

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Long-term side effects of breast cancer treatment can include persistent hair loss (alopecia).
• Understanding the frequency and impact of lasting alopecia is crucial for survivor care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the frequency and patient perceptions of persistent hair loss and thinning 6 years after breast cancer diagnosis.
• To explore the degree of bother and impact on mental health associated with treatment-related alopecia.

Main Methods:

• A survey was mailed to breast cancer survivors in the Mayo Clinic Breast Disease Registry 6 years post-diagnosis.
• Participants reported on hair loss, hair thinning, and associated bother.
• Mental health was also explored in relation to these symptoms.

Main Results:

• Nearly half (46%) of eligible survivors reported hair loss, and over half (57%) reported hair thinning 6 years after diagnosis.
• Moderate to extreme bother from hair loss/thinning was reported by 14-31% of participants, varying by treatment received (chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, or neither).
• Hair growth product usage was reported by 31% of chemotherapy recipients and 14% of endocrine therapy-only recipients.

Conclusions:

• Persistent hair loss and thinning are frequently reported and bothersome symptoms for breast cancer survivors.
• Further research is needed to understand the incidence, predictors, and effective treatments for therapy-associated alopecia.