Mitigating Side Effects During Breast Cancer Treatment

In part four of CURE’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month webinar series on managing side effects of breast cancer treatment, we partnered with UCLA Health and Northside Hospital Cancer Institute to learn more about management strategies for side effects during breast cancer treatment.

In particular, we spoke with Patricia Jakel, of the Solid Tumor Program at UCLA Health in California, and Emily M. Beard, program coordinator of breast cancer and GYN oncology at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute in Atlanta, to discuss how side effects can be managed, preparing for the physical and emotional challenges of treatment and available resources.

Summary:

0:12 — Managing Side Effects

• Healthcare providers should prioritize understanding individual patient needs and preferences to optimize treatment plans and minimize side effects. This includes considering factors such as lifestyle, social support and emotional well-being.
• Open and honest communication between patients and healthcare providers is essential for addressing concerns, managing side effects and ensuring optimal care. Patients should feel comfortable discussing any issues, including sensitive topics like sexual health and quality of life.
• A holistic approach to care involves considering the physical, emotional and psychological impact of treatment. This includes addressing issues such as anxiety, depression and fatigue, as well as providing support for long-term side effects.

10:14 — Preparing and Managing Physically and Emotional Health

• Encourage open and honest communication between patients and healthcare providers to address concerns and manage side effects effectively.
• Provide patients with comprehensive support, including access to resources, information and support groups. Consider the needs of caregivers and significant others as well.
• Tailor treatment plans and support services to individual patient needs and preferences. This includes addressing physical, emotional and psychological needs.

15:25 — Advice for Patients on Being Aware of Side Effects

• Patients should be mindful of information overload and avoid excessive research. It's important to focus on reliable sources and communicate with healthcare providers to address concerns and clarify information.
• Open and honest communication with healthcare providers is essential for managing side effects and addressing concerns. Patients should feel comfortable asking questions and seeking clarification.
• Healthcare providers should tailor their approach to individual patient needs, considering factors such as cultural background, language barriers and learning style. This may involve using visual aids, written materials or technology to facilitate understanding.

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