Effect of reassurance and lifestyle modifications in treating Mastalgia :- Evidence from a Tertiary Care Centre of Northern India

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Mastalgia is a frequent complaint among women of reproductive age group. Majority of the females have the fear of breast cancer which further elevates their pain and anxiety. OBJECTIVE: To assess the effect of reassurance and lifestyle modifications among patients of mastalgia and determine its associated socio-demographic correlates. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective study using a quantitative tool, was conducted among females with mastalgia attending the Breast clinic OPD of a tertiary care centre of north India from 1st November 2020-31st January 2021. Medical records of these patients were reviewed for baseline and follow up information. A routine non-pharmacological treatment in form of verbal reassurance and counselling for lifestyle modifications with emphasis on wearing proper breast support is done for patients with mastalgia who have no abnormality detected upon screening. The degree of breast pain was assessed by using VAS (visual analogue scale) at all the visits of the patient in the clinic. RESULTS: The mean age of the study participants was 34.5±4.03 years. The mean VAS of at baseline was 5.79 ±0.90 and 2.81±0.84 in 1st follow up. The was a significant difference in the mean value of VAS at baseline and 1st follow up (p=0.0001). Majority of the patients (69.2%) had more reduction in pain on VAS after reassurance and lifestyle modification. Females of 25-35 years age and those belonging to upper socioeconomic status showed more reduction in pain. CONCLUSION: A significant reduction in pain is seen among majority of the females with mastalgia after reassurance and lifestyle modification especially wearing a proper bra. Proper breast support is crucial in the management and prevention of mastalgia.