Assessment of Bone Health Awareness and Education in Breast Cancer Patients with Bone Metastasis in the USA

Journal of Cancer Education, 2023 · DOI: 10.1007/s13187-023-02293-w · Published: April 28, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study examines the awareness and understanding of bone health among breast cancer patients who have bone metastasis. It seeks to identify gaps in their knowledge and opportunities to improve bone health education. The study found that many patients with bone metastasis have low to moderate awareness of general cancer bone health, protection strategies against SREs, and screening tests. Those not receiving bone-targeting agents (BTAs) were particularly less informed. The research suggests a need for earlier and more effective communication and education strategies to promote appropriate BTA use and better health outcomes for breast cancer patients with bone metastasis.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

200 adult BC patients in the USA self-reporting a diagnosis of bone metastasis

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional survey study

Key Findings

1
Awareness of general cancer bone health, protection strategies against SREs, and screening tests were low to moderate among the surveyed patients.
2
Patients not currently receiving a BTA were least knowledgeable about cancer bone health, with only 40% aware of BTAs as a protective strategy.
3
A significant percentage (62%) of patients wanted to receive information through multiple modes of communication, indicating a need for varied educational approaches.

Research Summary

The study assessed bone health awareness and education in breast cancer patients with bone metastasis in the USA, revealing notable gaps in knowledge regarding bone health, SRE prevention, and screening. Key findings include low to moderate awareness of general bone health, especially among patients not receiving BTAs, and a desire for more comprehensive and varied communication methods for bone health information. The study concludes that earlier and more effective education strategies are needed to promote appropriate BTA use and improve health outcomes for this patient population.

Practical Implications

Improved Patient Education

Healthcare providers should enhance bone health education for breast cancer patients with bone metastasis, particularly regarding the impact of cancer treatments, availability of medications to prevent SREs, and lifestyle changes to protect bone health.

Varied Communication Methods

Implement diverse communication methods (discussions, handouts, electronic materials) to cater to patient preferences and improve information retention.

Targeted Interventions for Non-BTA Users

Develop specific interventions to address the knowledge gap among patients not currently receiving BTA therapy, ensuring they are well-informed about bone health and preventative strategies.

Study Limitations

1
Recall bias may influence the findings of this patient-based study.
2
The study may not be reflective of the knowledge and/or experience of the average bone metastatic BC population.
3
Digital recruitment methods favor patients with access to the internet and that are seeking digital information and/or connections.

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