Arin Hanson Discusses the Results of a National Needs Assessment of Young Women with Breast Cancer

Arin Ahlum Hanson, MPH, CHES, manager, Young Women’s Initiative, Living Beyond Breast Cancer, discusses the results of a national needs assessment of young women with breast cancer that was conducted by the Young Women’s Initiative.

The needs assessment conducted interviews, environmental scan, and analysis of national programs that are offering services and focus groups with young women with breast cancer. A national survey, consisting of 85 questions, was launched online and received over 500 responses, Hanson says.

The initial data showed significant differences between women with early stage breast cancer and those with metastatic breast cancer. A secondary analysis showed that young women living with metastatic breast cancer experience a greater financial impact than women with early stage breast cancer.

Hanson says young women with metastatic breast cancer also reported significant side effects such as fatigue, memory loss, weight issues, anxiety, and depression. Young women with metastatic breast cancer also reported a need for medical information.