Abstract C01: Understanding supportive care factors among African American breast cancer survivors

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Comprehensive breast cancer care includes not only diagnosis, staging and treatment for cancer, but also assessment and management of the physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and informational needs-collectively known as supportive care. This time frame, largely acknowledged until recently, is commonly referred to as the supportive phase. Several studies have documented the importance of addressing supportive care factors among breast cancer survivors. However, there appears to be a paucity of research concerning African American breast cancer survivors. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate and understand the patient-centered supportive care factors among community-dwelling African American breast cancer survivors. Design/Methods: Via recruitment flyers, supportive groups and word of mouth, 169 women were recruited and screened from breast cancer support groups and community dwellers. One hundred and sixty women were eligible and 155 participated. The inclusion criteria were women who self-identified as African/Black American, age 25 years and older, diagnosed with breast cancer and at least 1 year post-active treatment. As part of a larger study, and using a qualitative descriptive approach, an open-ended questionnaire explored supportive care factors that were utilized by n = 155 African American breast cancer survivors in southern and northern California. Results: The results revealed that the breast cancer survivors age at diagnosis ranged from 31-77 (M = 51.7), and years of survivorship ranged from 1-27 (M = 9.7). Among these women, the four (4) supportive care factors that were considered to be the most helpful and primary during their survivorship trajectory were their faith, supportive structures, being optimistic and having adequate access to information. Conclusion: An understanding of these factors as reported by African American breast cancer survivors might facilitate discussion among members of the oncology care team and this shared dialogue could pave the way for a responsive healthcare model (e.g. survivorship care plans) and targeted intervention of psychosocial resources. The resultant effect could also inform and promote the delivery of culturally specific healthcare to address the supportive care needs among African American breast cancer survivors. Citation Format: Claudia M. Davis. Understanding supportive care factors among African American breast cancer survivors. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Ninth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2016 Sep 25-28; Fort Lauderdale, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(2 Suppl):Abstract nr C01.