Experience of patients with metastatic breast cancer in France: results of the 2021 RÉALITÉS survey and comparison with 2015 results

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) and its treatments can significantly impact patient quality of life (QoL). In 2015, the RÉALITÉS 1 study documented the disease experience of 230 French patients. The objective of RÉALITÉS 2 was to analyse the evolution of QoL and the management of patients with MBC five years later. Methods Between September 2020 and February 2021, 266 patients with MBC completed a self-administered questionnaire on their understanding of their disease, its treatments and their impact on QoL. Results Compared to 2015, patients had better knowledge of the metastatic status of their cancer (76 vs. 65%, p<0.01) and of treatment-related adverse events (81 vs. 71%, p<0.05). They felt that their oncologist listened to them more (78 vs. 68%, p<0.01) and were more likely to feel good when taking their treatment (73 vs. 60%, p<0.01). Although the use of certain supportive care increased, such as social assistance (36 vs. 26%, p<0.05) and aesthetic advice (26 vs. 16%, p<0.01), 44% of patients still did not make use of it. Anxiety (67% of patients in 2020–21) still has a major impact on the mental health of patients. Conclusions While many aspects of the QoL and management of patients with MBC have improved since 2015, there are still areas for improvement, such as access to supportive care and managing the impact of the psychological burden of the disease, for which different solutions may be considered.