Factors Associated with Financial Toxicity in Patients with Breast Cancer in Japan: A Comparison of Patient and Physician Perspectives

Abstract

Background Patients with breast cancer are generally younger than those with other types of cancer. Their treatment often lasts for longer period, leading to increased costs and indirect burdens such as managing adverse events. Financial toxicity (FT) is a significant concern for patients with breast cancer worldwide, and the lack of medical cost information support in the United States is a notable issue. However, the situation regarding FT in Japan has not been well explored. Parallel with other related studies, this study aimed to examine FT in patients with breast cancer in Japan and present an overview of the group study’s overall findings.Methods The survey utilized the Questant application and primarily targeted patients with breast cancer attending research facilities and physicians who are Japanese Breast Cancer Society members. The Japanese version of the Comprehensive Score for FT (COST) was used to quantify patients’ FT. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify factors related to FT in patients with breast cancer in Japan and evaluate the sufficiency of information support level (ISL) for medical expenses.Results We collected 1,558 responses from patients and 825 from physicians. The results showed that recent payment was the most significant factor affecting patients’ FT. Furthermore, inadequate ISL by physicians was found, with ISL tending to decrease as FT increased. Regional differences in patients’ ISL were also identified. Physicians with a better understanding of information support needs and adequate knowledge of medical costs tended to provide more comprehensive support.Conclusion This study emphasizes the importance of addressing FT in patients with breast cancer in Japan and highlights the need for enhanced information support, deeper understanding by physicians, and collaborative efforts among professionals to mitigate financial burden and provide personalized, tailored support for individual needs.