Matrix Medical Communications is a medical publishing company that produces the 2025 ONS Congress Show Dailies. Below are summaries and links from content included in each of those e-Newsletters, featuring the latest presented research in breast cancer.
Cancer-related fatigue is prevalent among patients with breast cancer, with up to 30 percent reporting severe fatigue at one-year postdiagnosis. In this study, Carr et al utilized group-based trajectory modeling to determine fatigue patterns among patients with early-stage breast cancer from baseline to 12-months postsurgery. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from three neurotransmitter and five inflammatory cytokine genes were analyzed. Group-based modeling trajectory demonstrated that the most common fatigue pattern was mild fatigue that remained consistent over time (mild and flat; 55.6%), followed by mild fatigue that decreased over time (mild and linearly decreasing; 28.5%) and moderate fatigue that remained consistent over time (moderate and flat; 15.8%). Sixty of 130 SNPs showed sufficient variability. Fourteen SNPs—11 in BDNF, two in NFKB, and one in NFKB2—were linked to fatigue trajectory groups. Harboring variant alleles for BDNF SNPs was significantly associated with belonging to the mild and flat group, compared to the mild and linearly decreasing group. Harboring variant alleles in NFKB and NFKB2 SNPs was significantly linked to the moderate and flat group, compared to the mild and linearly decreasing group.
Researchers evaluated the impact of race and area deprivation on the relationship between interpersonal support and amount of chemotherapy received among patients with early-stage breast cancer. Among 278 patients, 95 (33.9%) were Black and 153 (54.6%) were White. In the overall cohort, mean percentage of chemotherapy received was 82.9 percent; however, Black patients received a significantly lower amount of chemotherapy compared to White patients (78.9% vs. 86.4%). Mean Area Deprivation Index (ADI) was 62.4 in the entire cohort. Mean Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL-40) score was significantly lower among Black patients versus White patients (96.1 vs. 101) and among those in areas of low deprivation versus areas of high deprivation (97.9 vs. 101). Race showed a significant moderation effect on ISEL-40 score and chemotherapy dose received, whereas ADI did not.
Computed tomography (CT) simulation is important for accurate mapping of the treatment area prior to delivery of radiation therapy, but scheduling CT simulation and follow-up on the same day can lead to cancellations, resulting in delayed treatment and increased anxiety. At this clinic, a multidisciplinary team developed an intervention to help reduced CT simulation appointment cancellations among patients with breast cancer. This intervention implemented advanced practice provider (APP) telehealth visits prior to CT simulation to help prepare the patient. Prior to this intervention, the average monthly cancellation rate was 33 percent (n=27); following implementation of the intervention, the monthly cancellation rate decreased to 11 percent (n=13). Patients and staff showed improved satisfaction postintervention due to increased preparedness and minimized treatment delays.
In this study, Gonzalez et al analyzed data from the South Carolina Community Assessment Network (SCAN) to compare breast cancer staging trends among Black and White patients. Eighty percent of White patients and 74 percent of Black patients had early-stage (in situ or local) breast cancer, compared 20 and 26 percent, respectively, who had late-stage (regional or distant) breast cancer; Black patients were six percent more likely to have late-stage disease, compared to White patients. When comparing in situ and invasive (local, regional, and distant) disease, the incidence of in situ disease was three-percent higher among Black patients compared to White patients (23% vs. 20%). Among cases of invasive disease, late-stage disease was nine-percent more likely to occur in Black patients, compared to White patients (34% vs. 25%).
Researchers aim to examine the impact of patient advocate collaboration on research teams in the field of advanced breast cancer. In this study, five participants (4 with advanced breast cancer, 1 caregiver) were interviewed on their perspectives participating in research prior to undergoing patient advocate training. Mean age was 52 years, and four participants were unemployed or retired. Participants noted the importance of contributing to research that could aid themselves and other patients, and highlighted the empowering aspect of participation. Participants believed their unique contributions and perspectives could help enhance research. Facilitators of research involvement included undergoing adequate training, feeling able to ask questions/voice opinions, and working in a collaborative environment. Barriers included time management, balancing research participation with other activities, and health issues.
In this study, researchers evaluated the changes in BDNF deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation after six months of an aerobic exercise intervention among postmenopausal patients with early-stage breast cancer, explored the links between changes in DNA methylation and cognitive function, and aimed to determine the moderator of cognitive response to the exercise intervention. A total of 117 patients, 61 in the intervention group and 56 in the control group, were included for analysis. There was a significant decrease in M-values at cg20340655 postintervention in the usual care group, whereas the intervention group experienced no changes. Changes in M-values at specific CpG sites were associated with various changes in cognitive function; for example, changes in M-values at cg02527472 were associated with executive function. Neither changes in DNA methylation nor rs6265 genotype were moderators of cognitive response.
Among 149 patients with early-stage breast cancer recommended to receive chemotherapy, 64 percent were White, and 36 percent were Black. Prior to chemotherapy, at therapy midpoint, and at therapy endpoint, pain scores were significantly higher in Black patients versus White patients. Black patients experienced significantly increased fatigue at endpoint compared to baseline; White patients had significantly increased fatigue at midpoint and endpoint, compared to baseline. Compared to White patients, Black patients demonstrated lower physical function scores at midpoint; both Black and White patients experienced significant decreases in physical function scores at endpoint. In an adjusted model, higher BMI was predictive of higher pain scores, higher fatigue scores, and worse physical function. Black race and cardiopulmonary comorbidities were significant predictors of greater pain and worse physical function, respectively.
In this study, Hsiao et al analyzed the relationship between cancer-related fatigue and mitochondrial dysfunction among patients with breast cancer and compared outcomes based on receipt of anthracycline (AC)- and non-AC-containing chemotherapy. There were 30 patients in the AC and non-AC groups. Triple-negative breast cancer was significantly more prevalent in the AC group compared to the non-AC group (66.7% vs. 10.0%). Mean revised Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS) scores significantly increased at chemotherapy midpoint and endpoint in both groups. Mitochondrial complex III activity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was significantly lower in the AC group at chemotherapy midpoint, compared to the non-AC group. At midpoint, there was a significant association between greater PFS score and increased platelet mitochondrial function, including mitochondrial complex I and II activity and maximal oxidative capacity, in the AC group versus the non-AC group.
Implementing a nurse navigation workflow can help reduce delays in care for patients with breast cancer. Aspects of nurse navigation included obtaining genomic testing results, communicating the plan of care, and facilitating physician appointments. Timeliness of care data were collected at one-month before and after radiation oncology staff education on the clarification of the nurse navigator role and at the introduction of patient-facing navigation consults. Genomic testing results were received after 2.15 days with the utilization of a nurse navigator, compared to 6.75 days prior to the intervention, which was an improvement of 4.6 days. Time to radiation therapy improved by 7.73 days after utilization of a nurse navigator (32.44 vs. 24.71 days)according to four-month review and electronic health records data. Additionally, timeliness of surgical intervention improved by 8.49 days following nurse navigator utilization (51.81 vs. 43.32 days).
In this pilot study, researchers evaluated the potential relationship between intolerance of uncertainty and executive function among early-stage breast cancer survivors treated with chemotherapy. Intolerance of uncertainty was measured via self-report instruments (subjective intolerance of uncertainty) and neuroimaging (objective intolerance of uncertainty); for the latter, bilateral anterior insula (aINS) reactivity to uncertain threats on functional magnetic resonance imaging was assessed. Twenty-one participants who completed chemotherapy within the past year were included. Mean age was 57 years, and 95.24 percent of patients were White. Greater aINS reactivity was associated with reduced executive function, indicating a significant effect of objective intolerance of uncertainty on executive function. Subjective intolerance of uncertainty did not significantly affect executive function.
Researchers assessed factors related to sexual satisfaction among metastatic breast cancer survivors. Data from 42 participants who completed 28-day Ecological Momentary Assessment protocol were included for analysis. Sexual satisfaction was assessed with the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – General (FACT-G); participants who reported being “not at all” satisfied were in the no satisfaction group (n=21) and those who reported being “a little bit,” “somewhat,” “quite a bit,” or “very much” satisfied were in the some satisfaction group (n=21). Mean time since diagnosis was 5.1 years in the some satisfaction group, which was significantly longer than the no satisfaction group (3.3 years). Compared to the no satisfaction group, participants in the some satisfaction group had significantly greater mean scores for cancer-related cognitive symptoms (1.92 vs. 2.63), sleep quality (2.89 vs. 3.77), engagement in daily routine (3.89 vs. 4.64), and social satisfaction (3.80 vs. 4.59).
Previous research has shown that the three-month Move Forward Together (MFT) program can increase moderate-to-vigorous physical activity among breast cancer survivors. Here, researchers studied the efficacy of a web-based MFT program (webMFT). Ten peer mentors were trained to deliver webMFT, and 30 breast cancer survivors participated in the program. Peer mentors initiated weekly phone calls, reviewed participants’ Fitbit data, provided weekly tips related to physical activity, and helped participants set weekly goals and remove barriers. Twenty participants were interviewed at the conclusion of the 12-week program. Participants highlighted the importance of a shared connection with peer mentors, and noted that supportive accountability (eg, from mentors, Fitbit use) was beneficial. After the program, participants recognized how physical activity impacted not only physical, but also mental and emotional wellbeing. Motivators to participation included fear of cancer recurrence and altruism, whereas barriers to participation included safety concerns and inclement weather.
In this study, researchers evaluated the utility of aromatherapy as a nonpharmacological anxiety intervention for patients with breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy. Patients with G6PD deficiency, respiratory conditions, fragrance sensitivity, or cardiac arrhythmias were not eligible for inclusion. Aromatherapy patches were placed on patients’ gowns and were used throughout treatment after patients were monitored for adverse effects. Ten patients were included for analysis. All patients reported notable reduction or no increase in anxiety post-aromatherapy use, compared to pre-aromatherapy use. Seventy percent of patients reported that they were interested in using the aromatherapy patches again. Nurses and radiation therapists reported that aromatherapy was supportive of patient comfort, and additional workload related to aromatherapy use was not reported.
Singh et al assessed the symptom and gut microbiome characteristics in patients with breast cancer who experienced fatigue 5 to 7 days after the first or second cycle of chemotherapy. Changes in clinical characteristics, microbiome diversity, and metabolite levels in serum and stool were evaluated 3 to 5 days before (T1) or 5 to 7 days after (T2) the first/second cycle of chemotherapy. Thirty of 35 patients with breast cancer experienced fatigue. Patients with fatigue were significantly more likely to report nausea, dry mouth, diarrhea, and changes in how food tastes. There was a significant association between fatigue and decreased Firmicutes and increased Proteobacteria phyla and Bacteroidetes. Among patients with fatigue at T2, short- and long-chain metabolite levels significantly differed between T1 and T2. These gut microbiome–related changes are linked to altered gut-brain axis communication, which might contribute to fatigue and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Lymphatic pain is associated with the development of lymphedema, an incurable condition caused by abnormal lymph fluid accumulation, though timely intervention can reduce the risk and severity of lymphedema. Lymphatic pain is common in patients with breast cancer, and Black patients face a threefold greater risk of lymphedema, compared to White patients. Fu et al aimed to understand the perspectives of Black patients with breast cancer on lymphatic pain and lymphedema, as well as their perceptions of behavioral interventions. Twelve Black patients with lymphatic pain or lymphedema were interviewed. Patients did not know what lymphedema was prior to being diagnosed. Lymphatic pain was described as persistent, yet some patients noted that their pain was not acknowledged. Factors associated with implementation of behavioral interventions included perceived efficacy of the intervention, perceived ability to undertake the intervention, and willingness to take accountability. Challenges regarding behavioral intervention implementation included difficulty adhering to and feeling pressured into undertaking the intervention.
Barandouzi et al explored how social determinants of health (SDOH) influenced psychoneurological symptom burden among breast cancer survivors. Psychoneurological symptoms can include fatigue, pain, cognitive impairment, and depressive symptoms. An 11-item questionnaire was utilized to measure SDOH, and the Area Deprivation Index was used to evaluate neighborhood deprivation. Psychoneurological symptoms were assessed with the PROMIS 29 version 1.0. Data from 74 breast cancer survivors were included for analysis. Mean age was 54 years. Most patients (53%) were non-Hispanic Black; 28 percent were non-Hispanic White, and 19 percent were Hispanic. Sixty-five percent of patients had early-stage breast cancer. There was a significant association between higher financial needs and more severe psychoneurological symptoms, pain, and depressive symptoms. When controlling for race/ethnicity, marital status, and body mass index, greater stress levels showed a significant association with more severe psychoneurological symptoms, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and sleep disturbance.
Breast cancer is linked to a high financial burden, as it has been identified as one of the most expensive cancers due to long-term costs. Researchers conducted semistructured interviews with eight breast cancer survivors in order to describe financial burden during treatment and recovery. Comprehensive support services that could help alleviate financial burden among breast cancer survivors include free financial counseling, support groups, and mental health resources. Across the interviews, seven themes pertaining to challenges faced by respondents were identified, including survivors’ experiences, internal and external support, and impact on quality of life. Financial burden, insurance policies, and economic consequences of breast cancer treatment were notable; for example, one patient noted being denied insurance coverage for an emergency surgery due to a lack of prior authorization.
In this study, Cherwin et al compared symptom burden and gastrointestinal microbiome composition among chemotherapy-treated patients with breast cancer with (n=26) and without (n=33) obesity. One week after receipt of chemotherapy, patients provided stool samples for analysis and completed the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale (MSAS). Mean patient age significantly differed between groups (obesity group: 57.96 years; non-obesity group: 47.48 years). Symptom burden was similar between patients with and without obesity. In the obesity group, mean symptom occurrence, frequency, severity, and distress were 13.76, 1.93, 1.93, and 1.65, respectively; in the non-obesity group, these values were 13.12, 2.02, 1.91, and 1.74, respectively. Alpha- and beta-diversity were not significantly different between groups, indicating that patients had comparable gastrointestinal microbiome composition regardless of obesity status. However, eight bacteria were found to be significantly enriched in patients with obesity versus those without obesity.
Anxiety is a prevalent concern for patients with breast cancer; as such, researchers evaluated the impact of starlight therapy on reducing anxiety among patients undergoing first-line chemotherapy. Starlight therapy is a complementary Snoezelen therapy that uses laser star projection; though clinical effectiveness has not yet been established, research has shown that it decreased anxiety in the hospice setting. In this study, patients undergoing chemotherapy were provided with a blanket and seated on a recliner in a dark, blue-painted room. Anxiety was assessed using the STAIS-5, and heart rate and blood pressure were measured as well. Data was collected before provider visit, after provider visit/before starlight therapy, after 15 minutes of therapy, and after chemotherapy infusion. Among 28 patients with breast cancer, 96 percent indicated that the intervention was effective. Anxiety scores dropped at all three timepoints after baseline, with the largest decreases reported before starlight therapy and after 15 minutes of therapy. Additionally, heart rate significantly decreased before and after starlight therapy. Clinical anxiety was zero percent at the final two timepoints, compared to 66 percent at baseline.
Patients with breast and gynecologic cancers often lack adequate information on sexual health during cancer treatment. As such, a team of nurses developed evidence-based resource guide regarding sexual health for patients with breast and gynecologic cancers. The guide, which was created in English and Spanish, was presented to patients during the initial appointment for chemotherapy education and discussed at further appointments. The guide included resources on sexuality, intimacy, and sexual health. Seventy-five percent of patients reported significant sexuality-related concerns during treatment. Eighty percent of patients reported that the sexuality guide helped to address their concerns and gave them tools to manage sexual health–related concerns.
Our Company
Our Brands
© 2026 Matrix Medical Communications, LLC
Privacy Policy