Active Monitoring vs. Surgery: Similar Quality of Life for Low-Risk DCIS Patients
Active Monitoring for Low-Risk Breast Cancer Shows Promise for quality of Life
San Antonio, TX – A new study presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) offers encouraging news for women diagnosed with low-risk ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive form of breast cancer. Results from the COMET trial show that women who opted for active monitoring,a strategy that involves close observation rather then immediate surgery,reported similar physical,emotional,and psychological well-being compared to those who received standard treatment.
the COMET trial, which enrolled nearly 1,000 women, randomly assigned participants to either active monitoring or standard treatment, which typically involves surgery followed by possible radiation.
“Active monitoring allows us to closely watch for any signs of progression and intervene only if necessary,” explained Dr. Ann Partridge, interim chair of the Department of Medical oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and led author of the study. “This approach can potentially spare some women from the physical and emotional toll of surgery and its associated side effects.”
A key concern with active monitoring has been the potential for increased anxiety among patients worried about their cancer progressing. Though, the COMET trial found no significant differences in anxiety levels between the two groups.
“We were pleased to see that women in the active monitoring group did not experience significantly higher levels of anxiety or distress compared to those who received immediate treatment,” said Dr. Partridge. “This suggests that active monitoring can be a viable option for women who are comfortable with this approach.”
The study also found no significant differences in physical functioning between the two groups.
While the COMET trial provides valuable insights into the short-term impact of active monitoring, longer-term follow-up is needed to fully assess its effectiveness and safety.
“these findings are encouraging and suggest that active monitoring may be a reasonable option for women with low-risk DCIS,” said Dr. Partridge.“However, it’s important for women to discuss the risks and benefits of all treatment options with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision that aligns with their individual needs and preferences.”
Hope for Low-Risk Breast Cancer Patients: Active Monitoring Shows Promise for Quality of Life
San Antonio, TX – New research presented at the San Antonio Breast Cancer symposium (SABCS) is bringing hope to women diagnosed with low-risk ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive form of breast cancer. the COMET trial,a landmark study involving nearly 1,000 women,has demonstrated that active monitoring – close observation instead of immediate surgery – can be a viable option without compromising quality of life.
Dr. Ann Partridge,interim chair of the Department of Medical Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and lead author of the study,explains: “Active monitoring allows us to closely watch for any signs of progression and intervene only if necessary. This approach can potentially spare some women from the physical and emotional toll of surgery and its associated side effects.”
The COMET trial randomly assigned participants to either active monitoring or standard treatment, which typically involves surgery followed by possible radiation. Results showed that women in both groups reported similar levels of physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Notably, active monitoring did not lead to increased anxiety among patients, a concern previously raised.
“We were pleased to see that women in the active monitoring group did not experience significantly higher levels of anxiety or distress compared to those who received immediate treatment,” says Dr. Partridge. “This suggests that active monitoring can be a viable option for women who are agreeable with this approach.”
Although the COMET study provides valuable insights into the short-term implications of active monitoring, longer-term follow-up is essential to fully assess its long-term effectiveness and safety.
Dr. Partridge emphasizes, “these findings are encouraging and suggest that active monitoring might potentially be a reasonable option for women with low-risk DCIS. However, it’s crucial for women to discuss the risks and benefits of all treatment options with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision aligned with their individual needs and preferences.”