An Integrated Care Approach to Improve Well-Being in Breast Cancer Patients

Abstract

Background Breast cancer (BC) treatment has recently been revolutionized by the introduction of newer targeted agents, that helped tailoring therapies around the single patient. Along with increased survival rates, a careful evaluation of diet, lifestyle habits, physical activity, emotional and psychological experiences linked to the treatment journey, is now mandatory. However, a true proposal for an omnicomprehensive and “integrative” approach is still lacking in literature. Methods A scientific board of internationally recognized specialists throughout different disciplines designed a shared proposal of holistic approach for BC patients. Results A narrative review, containing information on BC treatment, endocrinological and diet aspects, physical activity, rehabilitation, integrative medicine, and digital narrative medicine, was developed. Conclusions In the context of a patient-centered care, BC treatment cannot be separated from a patient’s long-term follow-up and care, and an organized interdisciplinary collaboration is the future in this disease’s cure, to make sure that our patients will live longer and better. Trial Registration NCT05893368: New Model for Integrating Person-based Care (PbC) in the Treatment of Advanced HER2-negative Breast Cancer (PERGIQUAL). Registration date: 29th May 2023.

The quality of life assessment of breast cancer patients

“…Understanding the disease's effects and customizing chemotherapy therapies requires assessing a patient's quality of life. Interdisciplinary, holistic oncological care that addresses cancer's physical, psychological, and social aspects improves patient and family well-being [4][5][6][7].…”