Potential Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Financial Toxicity in Breast Cancer Surgical Patients: The Impact on Out-of-Pocket Costs, Lost Wages, and Economic Strain

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with breast cancer who are undergoing breast surgery, including mastectomy with or without reconstruction. The study aims to understand how COVID-19 affects out-of-pocket costs, lost wages, and unemployment for these patients, focusing on financial toxicity, which refers to the negative effects of rising healthcare costs on well-being. This observational study collects information to highlight the financial consequences of surgical cancer treatment during the pandemic. Participants will complete up to four electronic questionnaires, each taking about 15 minutes, before surgery and then at 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. The questionnaires include the Comprehensive Score for financial Toxicity (COST) and BREAST-questionnaire to assess financial distress, quality of life, and satisfaction with breast reconstruction. After the study period, patients will be followed for one additional year to monitor ongoing outcomes. During the study, participants will provide information through surveys on financial toxicity and how it relates to their quality of life and breast reconstruction satisfaction. The research team will also explore the relationship between COVID-19-related productivity losses and financial strain. The main outcome measured is the prevalence of financial toxicity up to one year after study completion, with secondary measures including economic disruption from COVID-19 and its association with patient-reported outcomes. This study helps to better understand the economic challenges faced by breast cancer surgical patients during the pandemic.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Out-of-Pocket Costs, Lost Wages, and Unemployment in Patients With Breast Cancer Undergoing Breast Surgery