Distress Among Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Patients from Diagnosis to Follow-up: A Critical Review of Literature

Abstract Objective This critical review used a systematic approach to explore the prevalence of distress among locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) patients along their treatment journey. This review explored the domains of distress (psychosocial, physical and/or practical) that are significant to this patient population and determined indications for psychosocial support throughout the patients' treatment. Methods Electronic databases including CINAHL, EmBase, Medline PsycInfo, and gray literature were searched from the year 2000 to 2016, to produce relevant literature. A critical review was conducted on 73 articles meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A narrative synopsis was used to summarize the findings under key themes. Results The results indicate that 16/73 studies assessed for distress in all three domains of distress throughout the treatment course. A meta-analysis was not possible due to the methodological heterogeneity of the articles, the variation of assessment tools used, timing in which the assessments were done, and the different treatment modalities. Distress was prevalent from the time of diagnosis, through treatment, and into survivorship. Sexuality, body image, age, financial difficulty, family/social support, and informational needs were common themes that emerged among the LABC population in these studies. Conclusions Comprehensive assessments incorporating all three domains of distress with the appropriate tools will assist health care professionals throughout the complicated treatment trajectory of LABC patients in taking a more proactive approach in assisting patients' concerns and preventing undue or increase in psychological distress during or after active treatment. This will encourage effective patient-centered communication and supportive care referrals for a better patient experience.