Breast cancer management: a rural perspective

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Rural Health
• Surgical Practice Audit

Background:

• Breast cancer management in rural settings presents unique challenges.
• Access to specialized care and surgical options may be limited in remote areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To audit breast cancer patient care in a rural general surgical practice.
• To assess the feasibility of breast conservation and multidisciplinary management in a rural context.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective audit of new breast cancer patients (n=28) over a 3-year period (Sept 1992 - Aug 1995).
• Review of surgical outcomes, including breast conservation rates.
• Assessment of multidisciplinary approach through management plan review.

Main Results:

• 28 new breast cancer patients were identified.
• Breast conservation surgery was achieved in 68% of patients who underwent surgery (25 patients).
• Multidisciplinary management was implemented for 26 of 28 patients, involving oncologists and/or specialist breast surgeons.

Conclusions:

• A rural general surgical practice can effectively manage breast cancer patients.
• The rural setting did not hinder the implementation of breast conservation or a multidisciplinary approach.
• This study supports the viability of comprehensive breast cancer care in non-metropolitan areas.