Post-operative condition of breast cancer patients from standpoint of psycho-oncology--preliminary results.
INTRODUCTION Information on being diagnosed to have cancer is always shocking for the patient, and it always causes a lot of psychosocial problems during its treatment. In these moments, patients need understanding, support and someone who can help them to apprehend all available options and choices clearly. The purpose of this study is to show the psychological states of patients with breast cancer after breast surgery, the importance of the psychological support, and first experiences in psycho-oncological management of breast cancer patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study sample included 46 women, their average age being 52.32 (+/- 8.98), who had answered questions in a questionnaire in the period after surgery. RESULTS The patients experienced fears and worries associated with almost every part of cancer treatment likely to happen in the near future. The fear of chemotherapy and radiotherapy (67%), the horror of losing hair (59%) and the fear of relapse or disease progression (57%) were evident. Moreover, the patients dreaded the forthcoming pathological results and the decisions to be made by the Oncology Commission (57%), with accompanying insomnia caused by disturbing thoughts in 39% of the patients. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that psychological support is important in this early period after breast surgery due to the vulnerability of the patients, and because it can diminish the risk of potential escalation of distress.