Discussions Regarding Reproductive Health for Young Women With Breast Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy

• DOI: 10.1200/jco.2005.01.134
• Publication Date: 2005-01-29T07:12:26Z
• Authors: Christine M. Duffy; Susan M. Allen; Melissa A. Clark
• Keywords: Premature Menopause

Young women who undergo chemotherapy for breast cancer face serious consequences to their reproductive health. Research in this area has previously focused on men, or childhood survivors. We sought explore self-report of health counseling young undergoing cancer. A total 166 premenopausal aged < = 50 years were recruited from oncology offices academic and private practices four northeastern states, as part a randomized controlled clinical trial aimed at stress reduction. Women asked variety questions regarding diagnosis treatment, including whether they received any early menopause fertility issues. Sixty-eight percent 34% reported recalling discussion with physician fertility, respectively. In multivariate analysis, hormonal therapy stage disease associated significantly increased odds recall menopause. Difficulty communicating medical team was whereas older age anxiety situations decreased odds. Many fail discussions the impact chemotherapy. Demographic, psychological, disease-related variables are related such discussions. Counseling about premature changes is an overlooked aspect preparation adjuvant Future research should issue further.