Patients' Perspective: What has Changed in Deciding about Breast-Conserving Surgery for Early-Stage Breast Cancer in Turkey?

Background: This study aims to describe patients' perception of early breast cancer, factors influencing the choice of operation, patients' sources of information about the disease and the seriousness with which this information is considered, and to address what surgeons can do to enlighten their patients prior to decision-making. Methods: Patients were asked to complete a questionnaire consisting of 3 sections: The first section addressed influential factors during the decision-making process; the second pertained to the role of surgeons or health facilities in the process; and the third asked patients to revisit their initial choice of surgery. Results: 237 patients were included in the study. Statistical analyzes regarding demographic features showed that nulliparous, younger than 50 years, never or < 5 years married, highly educated, business-owning, employed, and stage I breast cancer patients preferred breast-conserving surgery (BCS) to mastectomy. Conclusion: Although the rate of BCS is a technical quality indicator for breast cancer centers, providing sufficient patient counseling, involving the patient in the decision-making process, and offering every possible surgical option are key to improving quality of life. Systematic counseling should be provided to breast cancer patients who have primary tumors that are eligible for BCS. (c) 2018 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg