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Background: Despite the high prevalence of brain metastases (BM) secondary to non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (NSCLC/BM), patients' experiences (symptoms and impacts) are not fully understood. This study sought to understand the patient experience with NSCLC/BM and identify a patient‐reported outcome (PRO) measure fit to capture the most important NSCLC/BM symptoms and impacts. Methods: A targeted literature review was completed; the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)/Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Brain Symptom Index, 24‐item version (NFBrSI‐24) was identified as a relevant measure that assessed the core symptoms and impacts associated with NSCLC/BM. Qualitative interviews composed of concept elicitation and cognitive debriefing with oncologists (n = 3) and adult patients (n = 16) with NSCLC/BM were conducted to confirm the content validity and evaluate the relevance and appropriateness of the NFBrSI‐24 for this condition. Results: The NSCLC/BM symptoms and impacts identified in the literature and reported by oncologists and patients were consistent and captured in the NFBrSI‐24. Study participants reported significant burden associated with the symptoms (commonly fatigue, headache) and impacts of NSCLC/BM. Participants indicated that the NFBrSI‐24 captured their most salient experiences with NSCLC/BM and that symptom improvement or a delay in progression, as measured by the NFBrSI‐24, would be meaningful. During the cognitive debriefing, participants generally indicated that the NFBrSI‐24 was comprehensive and easy to understand/answer and that it assessed symptoms they considered most important to treat. Conclusions: These results suggest that the NFBrSI‐24 adequately captures an appropriate measure of NSCLC/BM symptoms and impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer in South African women. Without comprehensive national and provincial breast health programs, survivorship issues are in need of being addressed. Lymphedema secondary to breast cancer treatment (BCLE) is one of the most physically and psychologically devastating outcomes of treatment. Nurses at a South African oncology clinic educated survivors with BCLE in cost-effective self-management and self-monitoring techniques. The purpose of this paper is to describe these techniques and their relevance to diverse South African survivors. A case study analysis was performed. The need for cost-effective survivorship programs is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As breast cancer survivorship rates improve, adverse treatment effects will present post-treatment challenges to survivors and hold increasing significance for oncology nursing. Lymphedema poses one of these challenges, impacting psychosocial well-being, family adaptation, and individuals' health-related perceptions. The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify themes expressed by breast cancer survivors with or without lymphedema in response to the open-ended question, "Is there anything else you would like to tell us about breast cancer or lymphedema?" These narrative data were derived from a parent study employing Armer's biobehavioral model of breast cancer lymphedema, conceptualizing the objective and subjective dimensions of lymphedema. Sixty-four participants from a National Institutes of Health-funded study were interviewed eight times over 30 months post-operatively. Forty-three of these participants are being followed over 36-to-60 months and were asked the same question four times over 24 months. Content analysis was performed to analyze the 30-month data. Categories were formed and assigned themes as labels based on data review. Critical attributes were derived for each category based on coded responses. Similar content analysis will be carried out with the 36-60 month data. Next, responses will be divided into two paired sub-sets: 0-30 months and 36-60 months postoperative; and participants with and without lymphedema. Responses within each pair will be compared to identify predominance of themes within data subsets. Themes elicited from the 30-month data analysis included maintaining personal normalcy, spiritually inspired faith/hope, family/ friends/community as support, personal empowerment, influence of positivity/negativity, and self-directed care. Critical attributes derived from each of these themes were identified and will be reported. Themes and critical attributes for the 36-60 month data will be reported upon completion of analysis. This analysis in progress will reveal if elicited themes vary among breast cancer survivors with or without lymphedema and over time. Further study is warranted as preliminary findings suggest breast cancer treatment continues to impact overall wellness of breast cancer survivors over time. Funding Sources: National Institutes of Health (National Institute for Nursing Research) Grant Number 3 R01 NR05342-04S1 awarded to University of Missouri-Columbia; Dr Steve Hadwiger, mentor; Dr Jane Armer, mentor and Principal Investigator [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]