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As per a new GfK Roper Public Affairs survey sponsored by CancerCare, a national nonprofit cancer support organization, while the majority (76 percent) of women surveyed said they know at least a fair amount about breast cancer, a number of remain unaware of the important recent progress made in therapy. Fewer than one out of four (23 percent) women ages 50-65 have heard of new therapies for breast cancer, revealing a gap between awareness and information that women can use toward better therapy.

"These survey results suggest that a number of women still lack essential disease therapy information, which reinforces the need for women to educate themselves to help get the best therapy," said Diane Blum, MSW, executive director of CancerCare. "While great progress has been made in breast cancer awareness through public education and increased media coverage, women with breast cancer would benefit from more information about advances in therapys after surgery".

As per the survey, nearly all respondents were aware of chemotherapy and radiation. However, fewer than one out of four had heard of newer therapies such as aromatase inhibitors or monoclonal antibodies, nor were they informed about their benefits.

Doctor-patient dialogue is vital
If diagnosed, the majority of respondents said they would actively work with their doctor to identify the proper therapy. The survey also observed that 71 percent of women would research the condition on their own in addition to discussing therapy options with their doctor. However, 86 percent were not certain they would know what questions to ask.

"Communication between the patients and their physicians is so important because it empowers them to take an active role in their therapy decisions," explained Gary Frenette, MD PhD Medical Oncologist with Carolinas Medical Center. "With essential information, patients can work with their physicians to achieve the best possible outcomes in the management of their diagnosis".

Key questions.

Today, a number of women want to take an active role in participating in their therapy. CancerCare recommends that women consider the following questions to better prepare them should they face a breast cancer diagnosis:.

• What kind of breast cancer do I have
• Which therapys are available to me
• What are the risks and benefits of those therapys
• What is my risk that my breast cancer will come back and/or spread to another part of my body
• Where do I go for support when I need it

Posted by: Janet    Source