Clinical update: psychosocial responses in breast cancer survivors

Objectives: To present an update of the evidence on psychosocial responses and factors that contribute to psychosocial functioning and quality of life (QOL) in breast cancer survivors.

Data sources: Research articles/abstracts and literature reviews.

Conclusion: In the nearly 5 years since the original article, research has confirmed that the majority of breast cancer survivors demonstrate a pattern of recovery after treatment. Age, information, social support, degree of symptom distress, and unmet psychological needs remain key factors influencing psychosocial functioning and QOL outcomes. More knowledge has been disseminated about the experience of the transition to survivorship, women's perceived identity, and the potential benefits of survivorship plans to patient outcomes.

Implications for nursing practice: Assessment of psychological and social well-being in the transition to survivorship is essential. Interventions should be targeted to meet informational needs, manage uncertainty, control symptoms, address cultural differences, and enhance social and emotional support.