Evidence-based guidelines recommend cancer surveillance procedures for breast cancer survivors including physical examination, mammography, breast self-exam, and gynecologic follow-up. The early detection of recurrent and new cancers can best be achieved through the combined, on schedule use of these surveillance procedures. Yet, data suggest that up to 55% of breast cancer survivors do not undergo these procedures as recommended. This study tests a telephone-based psychosocial intervention aimed at improving adherence to recommended surveillance in breast cancer survivors. The psychosocial intervention for improving adherence is compared to treatment as usual.
21 years of age or older Diagnosis of Stage I to IIIA breast cancer Within 1 to 5 years post primary cancer treatment (i.e., surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy) No diagnosis of recurrent breast cancer or a new primary cancer Able to provide meaningful consent
Exclusion Criteria:
< 21 years of age Unable to provide meaningful consent Surgically treated with bilateral mastectomy
