Unmet needs among Danish women with breast cancer in the transition from diagnosis into the early treatment phase

Abstract

This study investigates the supportive needs of women diagnosed with breast cancer in the early treatment phase. The aim of this study was to identify unmet supportive care needs in the early treatment phase of women treated for breast cancer. This study employed a quantitative longitudinal design with baseline questionnaire (Time 1) and a six-month follow-up questionnaire (Time 2) that explored a variety of characteristics using both standardized scales and more explorative questions about employment situation, needs, rehabilitation, psychological, physical and social experiences. Eighty-five percent of the invited potential women agreed to participate, and 100 participants completed the baseline questionnaire. The analysis identified results concerning employment situation, depressive symptoms, unmet needs, distress, sexual life, social constraints and cancer-related quality of life. The study concludes that health professionals must embrace the challenges faced by the women and provide strategies to support women achieving meaningful lives.