Workshop 1: Doctor-patient communication
Presenters: Dr Cheng-Har Yip, Malaysia
Ranjit Kaur, Malaysia
Gloria Lin, Taiwan
Doctors play a key role in behaviour change among patients largely through interpersonal
channels, often being on a one-to-one basis, particularly during diagnosis. This
communication is a process where knowledge, information and psychosocial expressions
can be exchanged taking into consideration the patient’s level of knowledge, attitude and
social and cultural norms.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is known to be common in breast cancer diagnosis. Effective
communication between the doctor and patient is essential at every stage of the breast
cancer journey of the patient. The most crucial time being during diagnosis where the patient
is in need of psychosocial support as well. In an ideal situation, the patient should receive
sufficient psychosocial and psychooncological support upon diagnosis and before
proceeding with the rest of the procedures that follow diagnosis. This can enable the
patient to make informed decisions when she has dealt with her emotional crisis.
Effective communication can facilitate empowering the patient to take control of her breast
cancer experience. There is a need for doctors to be trained to have the knowledge and
skills in managing patients in distress and also refer the patient to the appropriate healthcare
professional in case the need arises. There are key elements in effective communication
with the patient. Breaking bad news at diagnosis is a challenging task for the doctor and it
increasingly involves ethical and legal implications in the Asian region.
Workshop 2:
The role of the nurse in supporting breast cancer patients
Presenters: Dr Lili Tang, China
Haiyan Zhao, China
Janine Porter-Steele, Australia
Lili Tang, China
Dr Lili Tang is chief physician, doctoral supervisor and director of Peking University Cancer
Hospital.
She is currently President of the Chinese Psycho-Oncology Society and the Beijing
Psycho-Oncology Society. Dr Tang’s research interests are very broad and include
interventions for psychological distress of cancer patients and families, doctor – patient
communication and counselling.
Janine Porter-Steele, Australia
Janine Porter-Steele is a clinical nurse consultant, an accredited breast care nurse, women’s
health nurse and manager of The Wesley Hospital Choices Cancer Support Centre in
Brisbane, Australia. Janine provides patient care and support, facilitates the training of
volunteers and sets up the programs from an evidence based/research perspective. She
provides community education and clinical support for Choices Cancer Support Centre.
Haiyan Zhao, China
My name is Haiyan Zhao. I got the bachelor degree of Nursing in Nursing school of Peking
Union Medical College in 2006. Since then, I began to work in Surgery Department at Peking
Union Medical College hospital. For the first two years, I worked on a General Surgery Ward,
and then on the Breast Surgery Ward for about six years. I was a visitor on General Surgery
Ward, ICU and Cancer Centre at Bellevue Hospital Center in New York for three months in
2013. Now, I am the nursing educator on the Breast Surgery ward. My responsibilities
include mentoring nursing students and arranging continuing education for staff nurses. I
also assist our volunteers to provide service for our patients, such as how to do
postoperative functional exercise and how to reduce anxiety related to the illness. In addition,
I am responsible for assisting the head nurse to manage the ward. In my spare time, I like
jogging, swimming and reading. I do exercise almost every day because I believe healthy life
style is the key for nurses to provide the healthcare service to others.
Workshop 3:
Establishing and operating a peer support programme
Presenters: Ann Steyn, South Africa
Kevin Stein, USA
Ya-Wen Kuo, Taiwan
The global need for peer support programmes continues and this workshop will outline the
essentials that need to be considered when establishing such a programme. These will
include the following:
• Discussing the need for a breast cancer peer support service in your community. The
patient and family needs will be covered; the importance of an audit of community resources,
statistics of patients, what peer support and volunteering mean in the community will also be
included.
• The guidelines for establishing the service. This will cover the personnel required and
define volunteer recruitment with their roles and responsibilities. Discussion around the
services to be offered and the resources needed will be covered. An appropriate patient
resource pack will be discussed, and a protocol for visiting and supporting patients, and
recording and evaluating the services will also feature.
• Training content and method of training. How to work with volunteers and the aim of the
training will be discussed. Training principles with suggested content of Training will be
covered. The importance of Patient Confidentiality will be stressed. Guidelines for ongoing
training and evaluation will also be included.
This will be an interactive workshop.
Workshop 4: Living well after breast cancer
In this pre-conference workshop, Dr. Melanie Hyde, Dr. Wendy Lam, and Cathy Brice Hirsch
will discuss effective techniques for restoring physical and emotional well being during and
after breast cancer surgery and treatment. Through group discussion and audience
participation, the presenters will impart to an audience of breast cancer patients, survivors,
care givers, and peer-support volunteers practical information regarding the effectiveness of
diet, exercise, mindfulness, meditation, and other mental exercises in recovering and
rebounding. The importance of reaching out to other patients and survivors will be stressed
as playing an integral role in promoting post-traumatic growth in breast cancer survivors.
Cathy Brice Hirsch, USA
Cathy Brice Hirsch is an attorney and former journalist who lives outside Baltimore,
Maryland. She is the President of a privately operated non-profit foundation, Within Reach,
which develops and operates support programs for cancer patients and survivors. In addition
to her foundation work, Ms. Hirsch is the current President of Reach to Recovery
International. For the past 9 years, she has volunteered for the American Cancer Society on
the local, regional, and national levels, serving as a Reach to Recovery volunteer visitor,
patient/volunteer coordinator, and trainer. She has also served on various American Cancer
Society committees that have evaluated and improved the Reach to Recovery program, and
she served as a stakeholder on an ACS research grant review committee. Ms. Hirsch is an
11-year survivor of breast cancer.
Melissa Hyde, Australia
Dr. Melissa Hyde currently holds a conjoint position with the Menzies Health Institute
Queensland, Griffith University and Cancer Council Queensland as a Research Fellow in
Psycho-Oncology and Community Engagement. She also co-leads the Community
Engagement Research Program at Cancer Council Queensland which studies volunteering,
fundraising, and other forms of participatory action that are critical for cancer control. Dr.
Hyde is an early career researcher having completed her PhD in 2009, in health psychology;
and was awarded the European Health Psychology Society Early Career Researcher Award
in 2013. Her research is focused on the psychosocial aspects of cancer survivorship and the
motivations and contribution of volunteers to cancer control.
Wendy WT Lam, Hong Kong
Dr. Wendy WT Lam is currently an Associate Professor at the School of Public Health, The
University of Hong Kong. She is also the deputy director of the Centre for
Psycho-Oncological Research and Teaching and head of the Division of Behavioural
Sciences at The University of Hong Kong. Dr. Lam completed her Ph.D. in Psycho-oncology
from the University of Hong Kong and graduated in 2002. She is the foundation recipient of
The Hong Kong Cancer Fund Scholarship in Psycho-oncology for 2001-2002 and was
awarded the 2007 Hiroomi Kawano Young Investigator Award by the International
Psycho-Oncology Society for her work on Chinese women with breast cancer. Her research
interests focus on psychosocial adaptation patterns and service optimization in women with
breast cancer.
Plenary 1-1
Cheng-Har Yip, Malaysia
Dato’ Dr Yip Cheng Har, MBBS, FRCS (Glasg) FRCSEd FACS (Hon)
Consultant Breast Surgeon
Sime Darby Medical Cente Subang Jaya
Dr Yip is currently a consultant breast surgeon in the Subang Jaya Medical Centre and
Parkcity Medical Centre, and Clinical Professor in the Dept of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine,
University Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kuala Lumpur. She is a visiting consultant to the Dept of
Surgery, University of Malaya and the lead clinician for the breast cancer research
programme in the Cancer
Research Initiatives Foundation (CARIF). Dr Yip has over 150 publications in peer reviewed
journals, and her research interests are in epidemiology and outcomes of breast cancer
especially in low and middle income countries.
Dr Yip is the immediate Past President of the College of Surgeons, Academy of Medicine
Malaysia (20102013, as well as the Immediate Past President of the Asia Pacific
Organization for Cancer Prevention (2010-2012). She is currently the President-Elect of
Breast Surgery International. She has been appointed an expert in cancer control by the
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and has been on expert panels in international
organizations such as the Breast Health Global Initiative.
In May 2012, she was awarded the DPMP , which carries the title of Dato’ from the Sultan of
Perak and in Oct 2013, she was awarded the Honorary Fellowship of the American College
of Surgeons.
Global Trends in breast cancer
Globally, breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women with an estimated 1.67
million cases in 2012 (Globocan 2012). Incidence rates vary from 96 per 100 000 in
Western Europe to 27 per 100 000 in Africa. In 2012 it was the most common cause of
cancer deaths in less developed regions (324 000), and the second cause of cancer deaths
in more developed regions (198 000 deaths). While the incidence rates in developed
countries have stabilised, the incidence rates in developing countries continue to increase.
This increasing incidence is due to “westernization” of risk factors, a loose term to describe
the lifestyle changes leading to a decreased age of menarche, increased age of menopause,
less children, late first child-birth, shorter period of breast feeding, and a more sedentary
lifestyle, which are all known to increase risk of breast cancer. The peak age at diagnosis
range between 45- 50 years old in the developing counties, while it is 55-60 years old in
the developed world. The earlier age at diagnosis is likely to be a cohort effect, ie successive
generations of women are exposed to differing risk factors. Breast cancer is also diagnosed
at later stages in developing countries, due to lack of screening, poverty and ignorance.
Because of late diagnosis and lack of optimal treatment, survival from breast cancer is
poorer in developing countries. There is an urgent need to improve outcomes from breast
cancer in developing countries and close the cancer divide between rich and poor countries.
Plenary 1-2
Anli Shi, China
Education：
• 1972-1976 Graduated from Beijing Medical University, on Medicine, (Degrees &
Diplomas: Bachelor of Medicine).
• 1987-1988 Graduated from International Course in Health Development (master degree
Course), in Prince Leopold Institute of Tropical Medicine, (International Co-operational
Central of Primal Health Care of World Health Organization) Antwerp, Belgium.
Work Experience：
• 1976-1982, Officer for Division of Planning, Department of Medical Science-Technology
and Education, Ministry of Health of China.
• 1983-1988, Deputy chief for Division of Planning, Department of Medical
Science-Technology and Education of MOPH.
• 1989-1994, Deputy chief for Division of International Exchange, Department of Medical
Science-Technology and Education of MOPH, P.R.C.
• 1995-1998 Chief for Health Standard Management Office, Department of Medical
Science-Technology and Education of MOPH.
• 1998-2003, a member of Center of health inspection & evaluation, in charge of health
inspection system reform.
2003-up to now:
• Chairman of Chinese of Cancer Rehabilitation Society; CACA; • Vice Secretary
General for China Cancer Foundation:
• Vice Chairman for Beijing Cancer Rehabilitation Society;
• Advisory boards in Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organization Alliance.
• Member of China National Accreditation Committee for Laboratories;
• Member of China National Accreditation Committee for Product Certification Bodies;
• Assessor of National Metrological Accreditation;
• Adviser on International Cooperative projects of Health Manpower Exchange Center,
MOPH
Social Activity
1. Member of Chinese Medical Association
2. Member of Medical Scientific & Technical Research Management Association
3. Secretary general of 4th National Health Standard Technical Committee
4. Member of Council of China Smoking and Health Association
My consideration and encouragement after breast cancer; My journey to cope with
cancer
1, Bad news at the beginning of my beautiful life
I worked as both a barefoot doctor and farmer in Yangzhuang Brigade, Yangzhuang
People’s Commune, Hunyan County of Yanbei prefecture, Shanxi Province after graduate
from the senior high school in 1968. After graduation from the Department of Medicine in
Beijing Medical University (1972-1975), I was assigned to work in the Program and Planning
of Research Development Division of Department of Science and Technology in the Ministry
of Public Health. I received a fellowship from WHO to study in an Advanced Training Course
on Health Management.
28 years passed after my diagnosis, operation and chemotherapy of breast cancer in March
of 1986. Then I continued my job in the Department of Science and Technology of MOP until
my retirement.
Another 11 years passed after my second diagnosis of Colorectal cancer in 2003.
2, Positive attitude towards the turning point of my life
After breast cancer, I started reviewing my life and work and found the main reasons and
problems, which were my unhealthy life style, over fatigue, inadequate sleep, stress, busy
schedule, irregular timetable and irrational diet.
After the second diagnosis of cancer, I had the preparation to deal with the problems and
difficulties properly and actively cooperated with doctors. With the peer care and support, I
recovered quickly.
3, Involvement and engagement of rehabilitation organization.
A performance showed by the rehabilitated patients touched my heart and aroused my
determination to take part in the charity work for the patients.
Since the beginning of 2004, I succeed the vice president of Beijing Cancer Rehabilitation
Society and Deputy Director of China Anti-Cancer Rehabilitation Working Committee and
the Deputy Director for
Department of Rehabilitation of China Anti-Cancer Society. 2011
(1) Program and activities of education for patients
(2) Training course for the key persons
Invitation of leaders from Taiwan, Hong Kong and USA to give lectures and make
communication according to our plan.
Establishment of models with Chinese characters and promotion of the experiences as well
as the establishment of bases at the feasible places and extending to all over the country.
(3) Strengthening exchanges and cooperation:
(4) Research Project
(5) Establishment of art performance group:
(6) Setting up network
4, Vision:
The conducting of the 18th International Breast Cancer Conference for Supporting Patients
is a great challenge, experiment and training for us. We will carry out international
cooperation and lead the national rehabilitation organizations to a higher level of
management and service. It is my believe that the conference will push rehabilitation work
for cancer patients to a new breakthrough.
Plenary 1-3
Ranjit Kaur, Malaysia
Ranjit, a breast cancer survivor since 1998, obtained a basic qualification in Physiotherapy
and a Master of Science degree in Community Disability Studies (University College London,
UK) in 1996. She is a member of the Board of Management for Reach to Recovery
International. Currently she is the Chairman of NCD Alliance Malaysia and Chairman of
Together Against Cancer (TAC) Malaysia.
She has held the following positions in the past: President of Breast Cancer Welfare
Association Malaysia (2002-2011), President of Reach to Recovery
International (2003-2007), and Board Member of the Union for International Cancer Control
(UICC) (2006-2010). Ranjit received the 2004 Outstanding UICC Volunteer Award and the
Terese Lasser Award conferred by Reach To Recovery International in 2011.
Her article on Cancer - My Personal Account was published in The Lancet, Issue no. 9472,
May 14th 2005, Vol 365, Page 1742.
The consumer movement in breast cancer survivorship
The transformation from being a passive recipient of treatment and supportive care services
to being an active consumer in breast cancer has evolved over the past decades in most
parts of the world. This change has been a process based on the patient’s right to
knowledge, information and treatment options, including supportive care services. Gaining
access to complete information on the condition, the treatment options and survival rate in
layman language is very significant in making informed decisions.
At the same time, it is important for healthcare professionals to ensure that the patient is
given the time and opportunity to understand and to make informed decisions. This has
happened where healthcare professionals have extended respect to their patients and
avoided judging or discriminating them. The shift in power from provider control to
partnership and consumer control is a model that can be extended into the realm of
empowerment. The main dimension of the continuum is power. Reach to Recovery
International has often examined individual and collective experiences of the breast cancer
journey from victim to consumer to survivor and then on to being an advocate. It is certainly
the life-changing circumstances of thousands of breast cancer survivors that have created a
strong consumer driven society in many parts of the world.
Plenary 1-4
Lili Tang, China
Dr. Lili Tang is chief physician, doctoral supervisor and director of Peking University Cancer
Hospital.
• President of Chinese Psycho-Oncology Society
• President of Beijing Psycho-Oncology Society
• Vice President, Chinese Geriatric Oncology Society Palliative Care Committee
• Standing Committee of China Association for Mental Health
• Standing Committee of the Committee of Rehabilitation and Palliative Care, Beijing
Anti-Cancer Association
• Editorial board member of Psycho-Oncology and Chinese-German Journal of Clinical
Oncology
Research interests
• Psychological distress of Cancer patients and families
• Doctor-patient communication in Clinical Oncology
• Psychological intervention on cancer patients
• The role of culture factors in the practice of psycho-oncology
• Development and validation of culture-specific psychometric and research instruments
Clinical work
• Symptom management in palliative care, which including pain, fatigue, insomnia,
depression, anxiety, delirium, anorexia, anticipatory nausea and vomiting.
• Psychotherapy and Counseling for cancer patients, including individual therapy and
group therapy.
• Psychological distress screening and consultation for in-patient.
Publication
Main Author or translator of 7 books and more than 20 publications in psycho-oncology field.
Young Women and Breast Cancer
In developed countries, approximately 13% of women with breast cancer are younger than
45 years of age. The peak age for breast cancer is between 40 and 50 years in the Asian
countries, whereas the peak age in the Western countries is between 60 and 70 years.
Some studies seem to indicate that young women (< 45–50 years) have a worse quality of
life and are more vulnerable to the negative effects of the disease than older ones. Body
image, sexual function and reproduction are most special concerns for young women with
Breast cancer.
Young women with breast cancer concerns a lot on body image, but women who had a
breast conserving procedure have the fewest body image concerns, which suggest that
while women undergoing more radical surgery are at greater risk for body image concerns,
reconstructive surgery appears to mitigate that impact to some degree, at least in the
short-term.
Young BC women reported a marked impairment in quality of sexual functioning, exhibited
very high prevalence and complexity of sexual problems, including Lubrication disorder(57%)
and lack of desire and arousal(42.5%).
Young women with breast cancer face complex decisions regarding their fertility and
treatment options. Survival remains the priority for the majority of women. Although there is a
paucity of evidence concerning many fertility issues, it is essential that available options and
any potential risks are discussed in a coherent, objective fashion. Early referral to specialist
fertility services that provide clear, cohesive advice can aid informed decision making.
Plenary 2-1
Cathy Brice Hirsch, USA
Cathy Brice Hirsch is the current President of Reach to Recovery International. She is a
12-year survivor of breast cancer and for the past 10 years has volunteered for the American
Cancer Society at the local, regional, a and national level. Ms. Hirsch is an attorney and
former journalist who is now President of a privately operated non-profit foundation, the
Frank and Clara Hirsch Foundation, Inc. d/b/a Within Reach, which develops and operates
support programs for cancer patients and survivors.
Trends in cancer care: What does multi-disciplinary care mean for Reach to
Recovery?
Multi-disciplinary care describes a team approach to health care in which medical and allied
healthcare professionals, including mental health professionals and patient navigators,
consider all relevant treatment options available to a particular patient and develop an
individual treatment plan specifically tailored to that patient’s needs. The goal is to ensure
that, from diagnosis well into survivorship, each patient’s needs are met seamlessly. An
increasing number of hospitals are adopting a multi-disciplinary approach to breast cancer
care, and some existing peer-support organizations wonder whether this trend will render
their services obsolete. This plenary presentation will examine the reasons why peer support
is not yet universally included as key component of multi-disciplinary breast-cancer care.
The discussion will share RRI’s vision as to how and why Reach to Recovery programs can
remain relevant and continue to play a pivotal role despite the changing face of breast
cancer care.
Plenary 2-2
Kevin Stein, USA
Dr. Kevin Stein is the Vice President of Behavioral Research for the American Cancer
Society (ACS) and the Director of the ACS Behavioral Research Center (BRC), located in
Atlanta, GA.
The goals of Dr. Stein’s research are to (a) gain a better understanding of factors related to
the physical and psychosocial functioning of persons affected by cancer and (b) develop,
test, and disseminate evidence-based interventions to address these issues. He is the
Principal Investigator of the American Cancer Society’s Study of Cancer Survivors. Dr.
Stein’s work has been published in numerous scientific journals and has been presented at
national and international cancer conferences.
Dr. Stein received a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and
Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology from the University of South Florida.
He completed an APA-approved internship at the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital in
Tampa, Florida. Before coming to the American Cancer Society, Dr. Stein completed a
three-year Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Psychosocial Oncology at the Moffitt Cancer
Center and Research Institute in Tampa, Florida.
Dr. Stein is also an Associate Professor (Adjunct) in the Behavioral Sciences and Health
Education Department of Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health. Dr. Stein is an
active member of the International Psychosocial Oncology Society, American Psychosocial
Oncology Society, The International Society of Quality of Life Research, and the Society of
Behavioral Medicine.
Obesity and Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the vast majority of
countries worldwide, with over 1.7 million women diagnosed each year. Asian countries have
the largest burden, with 39% of new cases, 44% of deaths, and 37% of the world’s breast
cancer survivors. While survival rates are improving in some countries, breast cancer is still
the leading cause of cancer deaths among women in western countries, and the second
leading cause of death (behind lung cancer) for women in developing countries. A number of
known risk factors for breast cancer involve lifestyle and behavioral factors, including diet,
physical activity, and obesity. The risk of breast cancer among obese women is twice as high
as lean women. Research on the impact of diet on breast cancer risk is inconsistent, with
some findings suggesting that diets high in fruit/vegetables, grains, and low-fat proteins such
as fish and poultry are associated with lower risk, compared to Western diets comprised of
red and/or processed meats, refined sweets, and highfat dairy products. Alternatively, a diet
high in soy, often seen in Asian women, is associated with lower risk. Increased physical
activity may reduce breast cancer risk; women who exercise regularly have a 12% lower risk
of breast cancer. In sum, breast cancer is a highly prevalent and deadly cancer and its
incidence is associated with obesity and unhealthy lifestyles. Thus, behavioral interventions
to improve diet, increase physical activity, and reduce obesity hold promise for impacting
incidence and survival from breast cancer.
Plenary 2-3
Furjen Deng, USA
Dr. Furjen Deng, PhD is a Professor and Chair of Sociology at Sam Houston State University
and an active volunteer in the Asian-American community. Dr Deng is Chair of the National
Advisory Council, Asian and Pacific Islander National Cancer Survivors Network. She
received her B.S. in Sociology from National Taiwan University and MS (1985) and PhD
(1990) in Sociology from Purdue University. Her current research interests include: quality of
life among cancer survivors, social impact assessment, and program evaluation.
Innovative Interventions to Meet Breast Cancer Needs in the Community
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide with an estimated 1.4
million new cases in 2008. 458,400 women worldwide died of breast cancer in 2008, which
is the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide (ACS, 2011). When
examining the regional differences, there are large survival differences between
economically developed and developing countries. For example, five-year survival rates for
breast cancer in the United States were 89% from 1999 to 2006; while similar figures for
India were 52% from 1990 to 2001 (ACS, 2011). These differences are largely due to the
fact that screening and improved treatments are more likely to be available in economically
developed countries than they are in developing countries. Numerous studies have showed
that early detection of cancer and treatment options can save lives. Built upon Everett
Rogers’ diffusion of innovation theory, the goal of this presentation is twofold. First, it helps
breast cancer survivors, advocates and community leaders understand the importance of
employing innovative intervention strategies to overcome the barriers to access early
detection and treatment options. Second, it provides examples of some of the best practices
for survivors, advocates and community leaders to develop innovative strategies to meet the
breast cancer needs in their own community.
Plenary 2-4
Yiling Wu, China
Professional Distinctions
Academician, Chinese Academy of Engineering
President, Hebei Academy of Integrative Chinese and Western Medicine
Founder, Discipline of Collateral Disease Theory in Practice
Professor, and doctoral tutor
Chief scientist for two national natural science foundation projects (973)
Vice chairman, National Cardiovascular Center Expert Committee
Head, Key Laboratory of Collateral Diseases, State Administration of Traditional
Chinese Medicine
Professional Affiliations
Vice chairman, Chinese Association of the Integration of Traditional and Western Medicine
Vice chairman, China Association of Chinese Medicine
Director, Collateral Disease Branch, China Association of Chinese Medicine
Director, Vessel-Collateral Specialty Committee, Chinese Association of the Integration of
Traditional and
Western Medicine
Director, Collateral Disease Specialty Committee, World Federation of Chinese Medicine
Societies
Thanks to his devotion and effort in developing the “pattern identification and treatment of
collateral disease” and establishing a new discipline of Collateral Disease Theory in Practice,
groundbreaking treatment protocols have been made for tumor prevention and treatment,
coupled with new national patent medicine—Shen Ling Lancapsule and Yang Zheng Xiao
Jicapsule.
The health needs management and the body needs business —Traditional Chinese
culture and tumor prevention
We have rich records and health experience in health and disease prevention far from
Chinese civilization of five thousand years. By combining the four traditional Chinese health
branches of “medicine, Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism”, combined with modern
knowledge and management practices on health, accumulated collateral masses, we
propose eight characters of health cultureof “Dredge collaterals – Supplementary essence –
Sports – Spiritual calm”. “Dredge collaterals cure chronic illness”—including tumors
treatment. Using Collateral Disease Theory reveals tumors occurrence and development law,
key pathogenesis of “accumulated collateral masses”, and new strategies of improving
syndrome. “Dredge collaterals cure subhealth disease”—Early Protection on sub-health
disease, proper diet, infection control, timely monitoring, tumors prevention. “Supplementary
essence”—Exuberant vitality is essential for health and longevity, so we recommend
Replenishing essence, anti-oxidation, anti-aging, improving immunity, and prolonging
life.“Sports”— Compiling Chinese Collateral exercise, we may occasionally take benefit
Traditional Chinese medicine,so as to adjust fatigue status. “Spiritual calm”—Regulation
mood and improving sleep quality. We could adjust psychological and emotional unwell by
using wuxing music, modern equipment, or meditation and so on, so as to achieve the role
of tumor prevention and treatment.
1.1-1
Minghui Zheng, Taiwan
Winner of the 2006 Godina Travel Fellow, American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery
award-Vice Ming-Huei Cheng MD, MBA, FACS, is a board certified surgeon pioneering in
reconstructive microsurgery. Up to date, he has performed 1,400-1,500 head, neck and
breast reconstruction procedures, and pioneers in the worldwide record for having
successfully treated the greatest number of Lymphedema patients with Vascularized lymph
node transfer, with nearly 100 surgical operations in the past 14 years.
Today, Dr. Ming-Huei Cheng is listed among one of the most sought-after doctors/professors
in the reconstructive microsurgery field. His innovative surgical methods as well as his
unique techniques have gained him global recognition and praise, attracting innumerable
medical scholars and patients alike from as close as Korea, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore,
and far as North and South America, the Middle East and Europe.
Rebuilding self-esteem after breast cancer
The breast reconstruction is a routine procedure post mastectomy in western country for
many years, and becomes an acceptable procedure in Asian country in recent years. This
study was to review the outcome of breast reconstruction post mastectomy between
immediate and delayed reconstruction using either autologous tissue transfer or implant at a
single Institution in a period of 15-years.
The trend of immediate breast reconstruction has significantly increased in the past 15 years
at this Institution. Immediate reconstruction patients preferred to use implants for breast
reconstruction, however the delayed reconstruction patients liked to choice autologous
tissue transfer. Conclusion: Breast reconstruction using either implant or autologous tissue
transfer may achieve high success rate with low complication in both immediate and delayed
breast reconstruction reconstructions.
1.1-2
Katheke Mbithi, Kenya
Mrs. Katheke Mbithi is a university graduate with a major in bsn, a wife, mother of two
daughters aged 12 & 10 years, currently a stay home mom. Following her breast cancer
diagnosis in 2005 Katheke decided she was going to become an athlete and join the fight
against cancer. She is a member of the Kenya Cancer Association and Reach to Recovery
International and is a regular volunteer for hospital and home visits to newly diagnosed
cancer patients.
I am not different
A breast cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatments can bring changes in a person’s
physical, emotional and psychosocial aspects. Changes in sexual wellbeing top the list. One
is left with a feeling of altered femininity. But all hope is not lost.
Pleasure and satisfaction are possible even if some aspects of sexuality have changed. One
has to try to keep an open mind about ways to maintain sexual pleasure. Do not stop sexual
pleasure because your sexual routine has been changed.
1.1-3
Qing Xu, China
Dr Xu Qing, Chief Physician, Professor of Capital Medical University. Director of General
Surgery and Breast Surgery of Chinese Rehabilitation Research Center and Beijing Boai
Hospital. China science and technology reward evaluation expert. Member of the standing
committee of China Disabled Persons Rehabilitation Association and Beijing Mammary
Gland Disease Prevention and Control Society. Member of CTA. Health education and
science expert.
Dr Xu’s focus is on breast cancer survivors’ rehabilitation and humanistic care, paying close
attention to the quality of life for breast cancer patients and their spouses. He/she put
forward “One breast, One patient, One patient, One family”
Sexual function assessment in premenopausal breast cancer patients after treatment
To explore the change of sexual life quality and its influencing factors in premenopausal
breast cancer patients after treatment. Methods: Premenopausal breast cancer patients
were assessed using CSFQ -14 sexual life quality questionnaire scale. Evaluation of the
patient’s sexual life quality before and after treatment was conducted by in depth
conversations and anonymous methods. Results: 94 cases received face-to-face
communication for the study. 88 questionnaires were received (93.6%) with 81
questionnaires were completed (92.1%). After treatment, the sexual life quality and sexual
satisfaction were significantly decreased and the CSFQ-14 scores were significantly
different (P <0.001) in premenopausal breast cancer patients. The ratio of sexual life scores
decreased a fair amount (39.5%), much worse (29.6%) and greatly worsened (14.8%); and
65.4% of the patients had no sexual activity. The reasons for this change include medical
related factors, fear of cancer recurrence, physical discomfort, poorer body image after
surgery, partner sexual attitudes, life stress and common psychological problems.
Conclusion: sexual dysfunction and sexual life quality were significantly decreased in
premenopausal breast cancer patients post-treatment. Patients’ physical and mental
damage, the change of body image and spouse attitude are all significant influencing factors.
So doctors should give sexual rehabilitation guidance to patients and their spouses.
1.1-4
Teresa Mazzaferro-Cuda, Australia
Born in Argentina, Teresa migrated to Australia in 1986. She is married with three children
and had a Bachelor of Arts (Community and Environment) Diploma In Education (Primary).
Teresa was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 and has previously attended and
presented at the Reach to Recovery International conference in South Africa (2013).
Art as a way of finding the inner beauty after the diagnosis of breast cancer: journaling and
sculpting amid grief and gratitude
As an eight-year survivor of breast cancer I have reflected on about my life in the journey
after the diagnosis. In 2012, I was part of a local art project called “The Belly-A Story of Inner
Beauty” where local women under the guidance of an artist learnt how to form a cast of their
torso, which incorporates art as a form of self-expression.
My sporadic journal writing since being diagnosed with breast cancer became the basis and
the inspiration in producing this artistic torso. I needed to explore and reflect on the beauty
myth prevalent in today’s society, how my self-esteem had been affected by my mastectomy
and most of all how I was going to express my breast cancer experience in this torso.
My sculpture represents this journey. The greatest gift of my life was to become a mother to
my three children. My womb protected and lovingly carried their three lives and I have
committed my life to them. My breasts were like a river, nurturing my little babies. In a
Christ-like manner my breast had to die so I could flourish with further life and enjoy my
children’s future.
The casting of my own torso was a cathartic journey, as I observed and listened to the other
women and their stories. I began contemplating our cultural diversity, and how our lives have
been affected by living in a rural area. For some of the women, the torso was a trigger to
discovering their inner feelings. Other breast cancer survivors like me also found this artistic
endeavour a road to self-acceptance.
1.2-1
Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, Nigeria
Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu is the Founder and President of Breast Cancer Association of
Nigeria (BRECAN), a leading NGO committed to galvanizing action against breast cancer in
Nigeria. BRECAN was started in 1997 after her experience with breast cancer when she
decided to do something that would bring about positive and lasting change about the
disease in Nigeria where misconceptions are deeply entrenched. She has won numerous
awards nationally and internationally in recognition of her work and commitment in the fight
against breast cancer in Nigeria.
Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu is a graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka where she
obtained BSc. Zoology in 1977 and MSc. Fisheries major in
Aquaculture from the University of the Philippines, Iloilo in 1986. She nurtured her career as
a fisheries expert while working with the Federal Department of Fisheries and retired
voluntarily in 2005 after 28 years of diligent service.
Presently, she is engaged in commercial fish farming and provides consultancy services
under the business name, Aquatek Farms Ventures. In addition, she has made a foray into
politics since 2007 and active in the present dispensation.
She is married to Rotimi Akeredolu and blessed with four wonderful children and one
amazing grand son. She is widely travelled and her hobbies include reading, writing,
gardening, sewing, classical music, jogging, tennis and yoga.
Establishing Omolara Jolaoso Memorial Lecture to enlist community participation to
fight breast cancer in Nigeria
The 1st Omolara Jolaoso Memorial Lecture held on World Cancer Day, February 4, 2015
was as a result of a partnership between Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN)
and Landers 88, a set of old boys and girls association of Maryland Comprehensive
Secondary School (MCSS), Lagos with the intent of immortalizing their classmate, Omolara
Jolaoso, who died of breast cancer in 2013. The death of Omolara at 44 years is symbolic of
many unaccounted untimely breast cancer deaths prevalent in Nigeria, yet, no serious
intervention mechanisms are in place to checkmate the scourge and provide sufferers with
adequate treatment and care. With the successful inauguration of the lecture, BRECAN has
paved the way for engaging communities in the fight against breast cancer in Nigeria with
the hope of raising the profile of the disease to attract the attention it deserves. It is our hope
that the MCSS community will serve as a rallying point in galvanizing more communities into
a collective action to become breast aware, advocate for and support services that reduce
the burden of care on patients and their families. Besides using the annual lecture as a
platform to raise breast cancer awareness, it will also aim at grooming advocates of all ages
to demand from government for adequate funding of improved infrastructure for breast
health care, lobbying for policy legislation to guide impactful interventions and stimulating the
interest of next generation of breast cancer researchers in Nigeria.
1.2-2
Masozi Ndhlovu, Zambia
Masozi works for the Southern Africa AIDS Trust Zambia (SAT Zambia), a non-profit
organisation that promotes community systems for HIV and sexual reproductive health to
contribute to improved community health in Zambia. Previously she worked as Health
Promotion Manager for the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia-Cervical
Cancer Prevention Program and African Centre of Excellence for Women’s Cancer Control;
and seven years as National Programmes Manager for the Circle of Hope Family Care
Clinic.
Health promotions of women’s cancers screening and treatment services in Zambia
Breast cancer is the second cause of death among women in Zambia and this continues to
be a public health concern. Cancer, if detected and treated early, may save lives, hence the
African Centre of Excellence for Women’s Cancer Control (ACEWCC) set out to educate,
sensitise and raise awareness of the community on breast cancer prevention. Health
promotion of breast cancer is aimed at engaging communities in all its structures as a key
strategy to increase the number of people accessing breast cancer screening services while
building the capacity for advocacy at the community level. African Centre of Excellence for
Women’s Cancer Control (ACEWCC) in collaboration with other partners of the Cancer
Prevention Alliance in Zambia (CAPRAZ), Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Community
Development Mother and Child Health and Ministry of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs continue
to work with the existing social structures of the community for awareness and information
dissemination of breast and cervical cancer issues. Together, these organisations provide all
cancer services from policy formulation to prevention, treatment and palliative care to
combat cancer. The rise in the number of women and men accessing these services due to
increased services of cancer prevention has indeed exposed early cancers and will in the
long run cause a reduction in the breast cancer mortality rates. All this and more can only be
achieved when all the partners in cancer prevention and treatment in Zambia collaborate
effectively; together we are stronger.
1.2-3
Philippa Decuir, USA
Philippa Decuir is married with two adult children, and two precious grandchildren and is a
20 year breast cancer survivor and passionate advocate. A USA citizen, she was born in
Rwanda, raised and educated in Uganda, a Makerere University Alumni. She earned her
Master Degree in Education from Prairie View A & M University, Texas. Philippa has been a
school teacher for 26
years based in Houston Texas and in 2008 she established the Breast Cancer Initiative East
Africa Inc. (BCIEA Inc.), a non-profit organisation dedicated to fighting breast cancer in East
African low income communities.
In 2013 Philippa retired from teaching to dedicate her time to BCIEA Inc. and now works as
the Founder/CEO and Director responsible for overall strategic and operational
responsibility for volunteer-staff, programs, execution of the mission and expansion. Duties
include fundraising, communication, establishing relationships with sponsors and supporters;
she is an external, local, national and international program promoter.
Philippa is an ASCO Patient Advocate, member of the Breast Health Collaborative of Texas,
Susan G Komen, Houston Affiliate, BHT, NBCC, GBHI, ABCF and WECAN Member of
Houston West Chamber Of Commerce, Lions Club Kigali, Rwanda. Philippa has published a
number of educational resources on breast cancer in English, Swahili, Kinyarwanda &
Kirundi.
Fighting breast cancer with one smartphone per village
In Africa, lack of access to life-saving information and poverty result in late presentation of
breast cancer. To address this problem, BCIEA created awareness/education App
accessible on Smartphone to be translated into vernacular, modified and migrated onto
basic mobile phones the for general public (BCIEA is partnership with Tigo Rwanda). In the
meantime, Fighting Breast Cancer with One Smartphone per Village Project, (OSPVP) in
partnership with trained Village Ambassadors is paving the way. OSPVP aims to increase
knowledge, and change attitudes leading to shaping behaviours. The Smartphone serves as
incentive-teaching tool and reference resource and the project is monitored and evaluated
by BCIEA Supervisor. Cell phone penetration: 70% Rwandans own cell phones and yet lack
access to cancer information. Breast cancer is the second highest cause of death at 15.19%
of all cancers in Rwanda. The aim was to deploy 250 trained Village Ambassadors within
14847 villages in Rwanda. Outcomes: increased knowledge, change in attitudes and
behaviours, scaling up and replicate to district level and engaging government and policy
makers. Implications: Attitude/behaviour change will likely eradicate late presentation of
breast cancer. This Project has potential for replication.
1.2-4
Karima Elshamy, Egypt
Dr. Karima Elshamy has a doctorate degree in nursing science from Cairo University, Egypt
(DNSc) and is A/Prof of Medical Surgical Nursing and Head of Gerontology Nursing
Department, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Egypt. Dr Karima is currently the
AORTIC Vice President of North Africa and a member of AORTIC Education and Training
committee. She is a member of the Editorial Board of the Journal of Cancer Policy and the
Arab Federation for Women's Development. Dr. Karima Elshamy is a trainer of academic
staff of Mansoura University, Egypt from 2004 till now. She is also a trainer for all nursing
categories all over Egypt and outside Egypt. She is a founder and executive director of the
Egyptian Society for Promotion of Women’s Health (ESPWH). She has more than eighteen
years in teaching experience for under and postgraduate nursing students.
Dr Karima Elshamy’s focus for work and research is: the prevention and control of diseases
through awareness and early detection programs especially for cancer, cardiac,
hypertension and occupational diseases, also for infection control, quality and accreditation.
Dr Karima Elshamy has high hopes for her country, as well as all Africa and plans to
concentrate on public health and oncology health program management in Egypt.
Developing practical strategies for improving equitable access to breast cancer care
and its hidden barriers
Numerous barriers to timely and equitable access to quality breast health care exist across
the cancer care continuum and negatively impact cancer outcomes. Improving access to
care and reducing disparities in outcomes requires identifying, understanding and
addressing those barriers. Barriers differ by location and population, but can generally be
characterized as: structural, sociocultural, personal and financial. Raising awareness and
reducing barriers to cancer care services can improve patient outcomes, provided
appropriate diagnostic and treatment facilities are available, accessible and acceptable. This
presentation will discuss how to improve equitable access to breast cancer care by reducing
barriers to breast health services. Planning Step 1: Where are we now? (Investigate and
assess)
• Assess access to breast health services for all women; assess community partnerships;
identify patient barriers and facilitators.
• Planning Step 2: Where do we want to be? (Set objectives and priorities)
• Identify community and health system partnerships; set achievable objectives; set
priorities and determine feasibility of interventions
• Planning Step 3: How do we get there? (Implement and evaluate)
• Establish political and financial support
1.3-1
Yuying Wu, Taiwan
Professor Yuh-Yin Wu, administrative wise, is the Dean of College of Education, Taipei
University of Education, which is the top teachers’ education institute of early childhood,
special education and elementary education. Previously she was chair of the Department of
Psychology and Counseling, the top institute of counselors’ education. Research wise, she
has been the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Educational Practice and Research (TSSCI) for
six years. She was awarded the honor of excellent researcher in 2010, presented by the
Ministry of Science and Technology or Ministry of Education, Taiwan. She was a Fulbright
senior scholar and has visited University of Oregon, University of Edinburgh, and University
of Colorado at Boulder, USA. Community service wise, she is an Adlerian positive discipline
trainer, a member of the committee of excellent teaching award of Taipei, monitor of Flagship
High Schools of New Taipei City, and evaluator of universities.
From research to service through expressive arts therapy and MBSR for women of
breast cancer at Taiwan
The research team provided services to women of breast cancer at Taiwan starting from
2012. We firstly surveyed 394 patients to gain a rough picture of quality of life (QOL) of them
with help from TBCA (Taiwan Breast Cancer Association). Path model results showed that
depression was the key predictor with direct effects to the four QOL domains (physical,
psychological, social, and environmental) from -.248 to -.580 while anxiety predicted
psychological, social, and environmental QOL indirectly through sleep quality. Based on the
results, we provided two approaches of psychological therapy for the past two years:
expressive arts therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) through TBCA
and HOPE (Hope Foundation for Cancer Care). Expressive arts therapy of 8-week-session
was implemented twice with 10 and 16 participants respectively. Pre-post test results
showed that participants were relived from depression significantly and getting into sleep
more easily. Three MBSR programs with 55 patients participating in the 8-week training were
conducted. Significant improvements were shown at depression, anxiety, mindfulness, and
physical and psychological domains of QOL at posttest and one month follow-up. Sleep
duration, daytime dysfunction, and global sleep quality index showed improvement at the
follow-up. For both expressive arts therapy and MBSR programs, through creative art works
or mindfulness practices, participants were able to develop awareness of personal physical
and psychological situation. They gradually tended to let go the burden, gained soothe of
self condition, and felt empowered through extending the awareness to the relationship
among their intimate families and friends.
1.3-2
Mibin Wu, China
Mibin Wu is a product manager in PingAn Annuity Insurance Company of China, Ltd. She
develops health insurance plans with specialized, standardized and cancer drug services.
She has a M.D. in cancer nursing from Fudan University, and her research interests are
using information technology systems to manage medicine adherence for breast cancer
patients and pharmaceutical economics. Her work has been published in a number of
different journals.
She has devoted herself to breast cancer survivor related research for more than three
years. For her master’s dissertation, she managed a nurse-led follow-up program using
computer-based monitoring systems for breast cancer patients. As an oncology nurse
researcher she is looking forward to the opportunity to present the latest research results
and communicate with researchers and breast cancer survivors worldwide to provide a
better understanding of nurse-led supportive programs for breast cancer survivors in China.
Nurse-led telephone follow-up for breast cancer patients in China: an 18 month
randomized controlled trial
The medication adherence to hormonal therapy for breast cancer survivors was as low as
50% - 80%. Nurse-led telephone follow-up has been shown to be a feasible and effective
method of monitoring treatment for chronic disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate
the long-term effect of the nurseled telephone intervention on medication adherence to
hormonal therapy and quality of life in breast cancer survivors in China. A randomized
controlled trial was conducted. 311 early stage breast cancer patients were recruited at the
Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center and were randomly assigned into intervention
group (n=157) and usual care group (n=154). Four trained oncology nursing specialists
provided monthly telephone intervention sessions, including reminding medication ref ill,
assessing and addressing side effects, and coping with urgent etc. in the intervention group.
The patients’ medication adherence and quality of life were evaluated after 6 and 18 months
by medication possession ratio and FACT-ES, respectively. After 18 months’ nurse-led
follow-up, the medication adherence in the intervention group was significantly higher than
that of usual care group. Symptoms, including hot flushes, weight gain, and sexual
hypo-activity etc., were significantly relieved in the intervention group. This study showed
that nurse-led telephone follow-up can significantly improve the long-term medication
adherence and symptom management in breast cancer survivors.
1.3-3
Qiaolian Lin, China
Impact of cognitive behavioral therapy on the mental status and quality of life of
breast cancer patients
Objective: To explore the influence of cognitive behavioral therapy on the mental status and
quality of life in patients with breast cancer. Methods: From January 2014 to October2014
100 breast cancer patients who had under gone surgery were selected and randomly
divided into an intervention and control group; 50 cases in each group. The control group
were treated with routine nursing, while the intervention group were treated with cognitive
behavioral therapy. The questionnaire of health knowledge, SAS, SDS and FACT-B,
cognitive condition, mental status, quality of life and satisfactory degree toward nursing were
measured and compared between the two groups. Results: The level of health knowledge in
the intervention group was significantly higher than those in the control group, the scores of
anxiety and depression after nursing were lower than the control group, the difference was
significant (P<0.05). The physiological condition, social/family status, emotional status,
functional status, additional attention scores and QOL score of the intervention group were
higher than the control group, the difference was significant (P<0.05). Conclusion: Cognitive
behavioral therapy can effectively relieve patients who have undergone breast cancer
surgery, decreasing anxiety, depression and other negative emotions; l, improving the level
of cognitive, quality of life, satisfactory degree toward nursing. Most importantly, it can
enhance the recovering confidence after surgery.
1.3-4
Nagwa Elkateb, Egypt
Nagwa Elkateb graduated from Cairo University with BSc.N, MSN, DNS and is currently
Coordinator of the oncology nursing specialty diploma, NCI, Cairo University. Nagwa has
previously been involved in many roles as a nurse educator in Egypt and USA working in
Texas, Chicago, Washington DC and Indiana. She has achieved post-graduate qualifications
in oncology nursing from Royal Marsden Hospital, UK, and M.D Anderson Cancer Center,
USA. A strong advocate for learning, Nagwa organized the first UICC oncology nursing
course in Cairo, Egypt in 1983 and second course in 1998 and has since been involved in
organising many nursing workshops. She has been a recipient of a number of fellowships to
support her nursing research and education, including a Fullbright Fellowship for six months
at Ball State University, Indiana for integrating Computer assisted instructions in the
curriculum of cancer nursing. Nagwa is a member of AORTIC, ISNCC, ONS.
The impact of fatigue and symptoms distress on quality of life for Egyptian breast
cancer women
The purpose of this study is to assess fatigue and symptom distress in women with breast
cancer and if these problems affect quality of life and have an impact on their safety. A
convenient sample of female breast cancer patients recruited from the National Cancer
Institute, Cairo, Egypt. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires or
patient structured interviews. Tools used: FACIT-Fatigue Scale (Version 4), NCCN Distress
screening tool, EORTC QLQ-C30 (Version 3). Data analysis includes descriptive statistics
and exploration of relationships between key variables; fatigue and distress, fatigue and
quality of life, distress and quality of life, key variables with patient demographics, and type
of treatment, and concordance between key variables. Results revealed significant
correlation between fatigue, distress and quality of life. Decreased safety measures are
correlated with fatigue and low quality of life. Conclusion: Fatigue and distress are common
problems in patient with cancer. Screening of these symptoms should be performed on
admission and frequently throughout treatment phase and before discharge. Screening will
help to identify at risk patients at an earlier stage and teach patients measures to reduce
fatigue and distress to promote high quality of life and maintain safety.
1.4-1
Jinming Yu, China
Professor Jinming Yu, Director of the Department of Health Education and Health Behavior,
School of Public Health, Fudan University, is a leading scholar in epidemiology and health
statistics in China. He has won over C$1,000M in research funding, including from the
prestigious National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Planning Office
of Philosophy and Social Science of China, has published over 200 journal articles, books
and chapters and has led key policy-applied research initiatives, for example, into the mental
health and quality of life of cancer survivors in Shanghai, China. In 2012, Professor Yu was
named a Fellow of the Shanghai Bureau of High-end Health Experts. He has rich experience
in developing questionnaires on heath literacy for children and adolescents and on mental
health among cancer survivors. He has initiated and run a number of research programs, for
example, on quality of life among cancer survivors and on community tobacco control, in
collaboration with overseas Universities. Professors Yu and his research team have lots of
papers reporting on the studies of Shanghai Cancer Rehabilitation Club in providing
behavioural, psychosocial, informational and practical support to cancer survivors in
selected districts in Shanghai.
Quality of life and its influencing factors among breast cancer survivors in China
An exploration and understanding of quality of life (QOL) can help to enhance understanding
and respect for breast cancer survivors (BCS) and assist in improving care and providing
social supportfor this population. This study sought to understand the factors that influence
QOL for BCS in the cancer rehabilitation organizations (CRO), including the effects of CRO
on QOL. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 10679 BCS from June to October
2014 across China. Data was collected using a selfreported questionnaire, which included
questions about basic socio-demographic characteristics, health conditions and treatments,
health behaviors and QOL. QOL was measured by using EORTC QLQ-C30 and EORTC
QLQ-BR23.Subjects with higher socio-economic status, earlier diagnosis, and fewer
comorbid chronic diseases generally reported higher scores formost EORTC QLQ-C30 and
EORTC QLQBR23 scales, indicating better QOL. Physical exercise and enough vegetables
& fruit intake are positively associated with QOL of BCS. Meanwhile, the BCS who actively
participate in the activities of CAO and were satisfied with it have higher QOL. These
findings suggested comprehensive cares for GCS.
1.4-2
Helena Xu, China
Vice-president of Mental Health Association of Jiangyin City Jiangsu Province. Director of
Psycho-oncology Study Center of Jiangyin Cancer Recovery Association. Bachelor of
Administration at Renmin University of China. Master of Science at Leiden University, the
Netherlands. National Psychological Consultant Level 2 . Since 2008, she has been
engaging in the promotion, education and consultation of mental health, especially focused
on the study and practice in the field of psycho-oncology and body-mind-spirit health. From
2013 to 2015, she has been leading the “Pink Light” psychological recovery support project
for breast cancer patients, with which she has set up the practice model of body-mind-spirit
integral recovery for cancer patients in Jiangyin City. She has written and published the book
“Mental Health and Cancer Prevention”.
Concept of body-mind-spirit integral to recovery from breast cancer
The concept of body-mind-spirit is integral to recovery from breast cancer. The concept is
based on the integral thoughts of “nature-man unity” and “body-spirit unity” in Chinese
traditional medicine. Health is the harmonious operation of the body-mind-spirit integral
system, and disease is an imbalance of the body-mind-spirit system. Recovery from breast
cancer must proceed with adjusting the body-mind-spirit system back to balance and
harmony. It is a way of integrating physical recovery, mental recovery, and spiritual
enlightenment that involves closely cooperating and harmoniously moving forward.
In Jiangyin City, the concept of body-mind-spirit in successfully being used to help breast
cancer patients experience physical recovery, mental recovery, and spiritual enlightenment.
This illustrates the importance of the people-oriented humanistic concerns in the practice of
body-mind-spirit integral recovery, as well as the need to focus on human development as a
possible source of the rampant phenomenon of cancer growing.
1.4-3
Huazhi Yu, China
She graduated from the medical department of Wenzhou Medical College in 1963, professor
of pathology. She has been awarded by the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Personnel
and the All China Federation of Trade Unions the “National Outstanding Teacher.” She was
the party secretary and vice president of Wenzhou Medical College. She was the vice party
secretary and vice director of Public Health Department of Zhejiang Province. She was the
vice president of Red Cross of Zhejiang Province. She was a member and vice director of
Population, Resources and Environment sub-Committee of the 8th and 9th Zhejiang
Province Committee of CPPCC. She is the vice president of China Anticancer Association
for Cancer Rehabilitation Association, vice chairman of Zhejiang Cancer Association, the
chairman of the Cancer Rehabilitation Commission of Zhejiang Province. She is an advisor
to Zhejiang Medical Association.
Cancer rehabilitation organizations blossom like flowers.
This article reports on the current cancer occurrence situation in Zhejiang Province, and the
development of various cancer rehabilitation organizations at city and county levels.
In Zhejiang Province, grass roots cancer rehabilitation organizations have developed very
quickly, formed a province-wide network, and organized various activities. Cancer patients
with our organizations have seen improved quality of life and an increased survival/recovery
rate. We have received high praise from the families of patients and society in general. Our
organizations have become one of the most effective and valuable means of cancer
rehabilitation.
1.4-4
Lianyou Guo, China
A breast cancer patient. Graduated from School of Prevention Medicine of Guangdong
Pharmaceutical University, she was the former deputy director of Guangzhou Railway
Center for Disease Control. She is standing vice president of China Guangdong Provincial
Light of Life Society for Cancer Rehabilitation, member of the Standing Committee of
Chinese Cancer Rehabilitation Society. Over the past 18 years since her illness, she was
awarded harmonies as follows: National Outstanding CPC Member for the Prevention and
Control of SARS by the Organization Department of the Central Committee of the CPC,
Locomotive Award by the All-China Railway Federation of Trade Unions, Top Ten Female
Experts in Science and Technological Innovation, Guangzhou
Advanced Individual for the Prevention and Control of SARS, Guangzhou
Advanced Individual for Patriotic Public Health. After she assumed the office of vice
president for Light of Life Society, she has been working with new and old members,
member of Standing Committee of the Society, and Directors of Branches, making great
contributions for the development, rising and flourish of the society. With a heart full of love,
she has been illustrating the spirit of selfless dedication with her practical action.
Making Life More Meaningful
18 years ago, I was diagosed with infiltrating ductal carcinoma on left breast with lymph
nodes metastases.
As other patients, I also experienced denial stage, fear stage, illusion stage, despiration
stage and quiet stage.
With a good state of mind and strong will, I completed four battles against cancer, namely
surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and TCM. Later, I gradually recovered through various
physical fitness training.
2.1-1
Lan Mu, China
Breast reconstruction and restoration of function
Breast Reconstruction is challenging work, especially after radical mastectomy, axillary node
dissection, and radiation therapy. Not only does a natural breast need to be reconstructed,
but any deformity to the chest wall and axillary area caused by the mastectomy and
treatment must be corrected. Care must be taken to avoid and possibly treat lymphedema to
the affected arm. Breast reconstruction treats both the patient’s body and mind.
Breast reconstruction surgeries performed over the past 21 years at Plastic Surgery Hospital
and Peking University People’s Hospital were examined with respect to the type of
reconstruction (implant, tissue expender, TRAM, DIEP, SIEV, or LD) and the length of time it
took. It was determined that the type of mastectomy performed directly influenced the choice
of reconstructive procedure and time in which it was performed. The study revealed that,
even when reconstructive surgery is done immediately, there is ample time for refinement of
the procedures, including vessel anastomosis, nerve connection, lymphatic flap transfer, and
lymphatic-vein anastomosis for prevention and treatment of axillary dissection-related arm
lymphedema. Co-operation between the oncological surgeon and the plastic surgeon as
early as possible leads to the best re-constructive results and the highest level of restoration
of function, all of which promotes the patient’s physical and mental recovery.
2.1-2
Wenjuan Chen, Taiwan
I have been in touch with art for a long time, currently I am an amateur artist teaching
Japanese Ikanobo’s creative floral art, and I regularly attend all kinds of art exhibitions every
year.
In 1999, I was diagnosed with Stage 0 breast cancer for the first time, 10 years later, I
decided to have a mastectomy and breast reconstruction. In 2010 doctors diagnosed Stage
1 breast cancer in my other breast and I started to take chemotherapy. At present, I am still
taking anti-hormone drug Tamoxifen, and I had another mastectomy, and then without
hesitation, I had another breast reconstruction.
After having two bouts of breast cancer, I am fully aware that other than medical treatment,
the hardship of convalescence required company very much, therefore, in 2001, I joined
Taiwan Breast Reconstruction Association and became the founding general secretariat for
8 years. From 2010 till 2012, I was the president of the association, at the moment I am one
of the board members. During this period, I have been a supporter for hospitalized patients,
promoting breast cancer prevention, and I have endeavored to promote the importance of
breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
Sexuality and the impact of mastectomy
What is the role of the breast? Its primary function is to feed and nourish infant. It can be
seen as a symbol of femininity. It is also essential to enhance marital intimacy. How do we
regard our own breasts?
Did I really care about my breast when I had to go through mastectomy? Or, I simply
overlooked my own needs on account of the more “important” things?
The impact of having my breast removed from my body affected not only my quality of life,
but also my mental wellbeing and physical appearance.
What can we do to overcome the mental block after mastectomy and to sustain the intimacy
between partners? Do I have any choices to change this situation? I do believe that breast
reconstruction is a positive action we can take to restore our confidence in looks as well as
projecting a feminine image.
A healthy relationship between partners does not totally rely on physical needs and there are
many other important elements such as love, laughter and tolerance.
2.1-3
Luoxin Zhang, China
Dr Zhang is a recent medical graduate of the Peking Union Medical College and currently
working at the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences where she is
undertaking research training in the Medical Oncology Department, under the supervision of
tutor Professor Xu Binghe.
Fertility issues faced by younger women with breast cancer
The aim of this paper was to investigate whether young breast cancer women in China want
to have children.
Patients and Methods: Young breast cancer women( initial diagnosis at age no more than 40
years old) answered a questionnaire.
Results: 81(26%) patients wanted to have children after breast cancer diagnosis and
treatment. 8
patients tried to get pregnant, 7 was successful; 4 women delivered their babies safely, 3
women had induced abortion. Younger age, higher educational level, having received breast
conserving surgery and not having children at the time of cancer diagnosis were associated
with stronger childbearing needs. Reasons for not wanting to have children after breast
cancer included single-child policy, fear of disease recurrence, etc. There were 72 (23%)
patients in total that received fertility counseling from clinicians after breast cancer diagnosis.
Conclusion:. In China, the childbearing needs of young breast cancer women after
diagnosis and treatment are intense. However, there is a lack of fertility consultations given
by the clinicians.
2.1-4
Leonie Young, Australia
Leonie Young was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987. Since her diagnosis she has been
involved with many aspects of breast cancer advocacy and support with both national and
international cancer organisations. Her involvement now also includes organisations
concerned with other cancers. Leonie is a member of the consumer advisory groups of the
Australia & New Zealand Breast Cancer Trials Group (Chair) and the National Breast
Cancer Foundation. She is also Chair of the Cancer Trials Consumer Network, a network for
consumers who specifically work with cancer clinical trials groups and of CanSpeak
Queensland which aims to provide a voice for people affected by cancer in Queensland.
Since her diagnosis Leonie has been a breast cancer support volunteer with the Cancer
Council Queensland. Leonie was Chair of the Organising Committee for the Reach to
Recovery International conference in Brisbane in 2009. She has been an invited speaker at
a number of Reach to Recovery International conferences and has vast experience
speaking about cancer related issues in other forums. Leonie is the Peer Support
Coordinator for the Wesley Hospital Choices Program in Brisbane which offers support and
information programs to people affected by cancer. Her personal cancer experience brings
an added dimension to the services offered including peer support for women, men and their
families who access the programs, volunteer training, and community education and
awareness.
The Sounds of Silence: Why it’s important to have THE conversation about sexuality
and intimacy
Understanding about the importance of discussing sexuality and intimacy has certainly
improved in recent times and researchers have now developed a substantial field of work in
this regard. However, this does not necessarily translate to people finding solutions to their
concerns or the best person to talk to who not only has clinical expertise but also who will
listen with an open mind and understand their unique concerns. A cancer diagnosis
threatens so many aspects of a person’s life particularly their ability to enjoy everyday life.
When the seriousness of a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatments are discussed,
people feel embarrassed to bring up the subject of sexuality and intimacy and consequently
this important part of their identity is often hidden in the background and shrouded in silence.
The side effects of surgery and treatments and the stresses of dealing with a cancer
diagnosis are often unexpected and have an impact on a person’s capacity to enjoy this
important part of their lives. Women report they not only want to find solutions for themselves
but also for their partners for whom they often experience enormous guilt about the impact
this also has on them. There is a misconception that only young people are concerned about
sexuality and intimacy. However, the basis of issues for young and old, single and married
are fundamentally the same. It is important to acknowledge the issues; know who to talk to
from a peer support perspective; and who to speak with for clinical expertise.
2.2-1
Yuhong Chen, China
Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, China
Research on the application of “Pink Lady” WeChat Group on the management of
patients with breast cancer after discharge
Objective: To explore the application effect of WeChat group on the management of patients
with breast cancer after discharge. Method: From April 2014- April 2015, 180 discharge
patients in our department were selected. Using the random number table method patients
were divided into control group (90 patients) and experimental group (90 patients). All the
patients were treatment with routine nursing intervention. The experimental group was
asked to join the “Pink Lady” WeChat group, which provided information and messages
about knowledge of treatment and rehabilitation. Disease related knowledge, satisfaction
questionnaire, and Barthel Index scale were used to measure the patients on day one before
discharge and six months after discharge. Results: After six months, the difference
between the two groups of disease related knowledge, patient satisfaction and Barthel Index
were significant (P<0.05). Conclusion: The WeChat group improved the level of self care of
the breast cancer patients, and promoted rehabilitation of the discharge patients.
2.2-2
Pingping Li, China
Female, chief physician, professor, doctoral supervisor. Department of Traditional
Chinese Medicine, Beijing University Cancer Hospital.
Interests include clinical and research work of the effect of combining Chinese and western
medicine therapy on tumors. Reducing radiation and chemotherapy side effects, relief of
symptoms and improved quality of life with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has
accumulated rich clinical experience and formed a systematic method of combining TCM
and western medicine for cancer treatment. The study “The clinical effect and mechanism
research of breast cancer endocrine side reaction intervention with TCM’’, received the
second prize honor from the Ministry of Education for outstanding scientific research in 2012.
Gained the honor of famous old Chinese medicine expert guidance teacher with the fourth
batch of Beijing and the fifth batch of national awards. Dr Ping-Ping Li is the Executive
Committee member of Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO); Vice-Director of
Chinese Anti-Cancer Association; Traditional Chinese Medicine Professional Committee;
Vice-Director of Chinese Anti-Cancer Association; Rehabilitation and Palliative Care
Professional Committee; and Chairman of Beijing Cancer Rehabilitation Association.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) maintains good health and assists breast cancer
rehabilitation
Introduce the concept of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to maintain good health and
the effect of treatment with TCM for pain management in breast cancer survivors.
Breast cancer survivors suffer from fatigue, bone and joint symptoms, hot flushes, anxiety,
pain and depression. TCM has advantages in improving these symptoms. Herbal formulas
such as Ren Shen Yang Rong Tang and Bu Zhong Yi Qi can treat cancer-related fatigue.
TCM and Tai Chi exercise improve bone and joint symptoms. For breast cancer patients,
long-term treatment with endocrine drugs may cause hot flushes, sleep disturbances and
other symptoms, which seriously affect the quality of life. Randomized controlled clinical
studies have proven that TCM and acupuncture have a good effect on these symptoms.
We should regard the theory and methods of TCM for maintaining good health and at the
same time use scientific knowledge to strengthen health education and guide breast cancer
patient treatment and rehabilitation.
2.2-4
Jinjian Zhang, Taiwan
Professor Chang received MD from National Taiwan University (NTU) Department of
Medicine in 1972, and PhD from NTU Institute of Clinical Medicine in 1982. In 1984-1985, he
was a research fellow at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Since
1991, he has been a professor in NTU Department of Surgery, and served as the chairman
from 1996-2002. Professor Chang served as president of several medical societies and
foundation, including Society of Breast Medicine and Taiwan Breast Cancer Foundation. He
has also received many awards for his teaching and research, and has over 150 papers,
including publications in Cancer Research and Journal of Clinical Oncology. He is currently
the superintendent of Cheng Ching Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
Breast cancer follow-up and the management of recurrence
Routine follow-up during the first 5 years following breast cancer treatment should include
full physical and breast examinations and blood tests (including CBC) every three months,
breast sonography every 6 months, annual mammography, abdominal ultrasound, and liver
function tests. Tumor markers (e.g. CEA, CA 15-3) are not absolutely necessary. Chest or
abdominal CT scans may be ordered as necessary. Bone scans should be considered if the
patient develops bone pain. Beyond 5 years, follow-up intervals may be lengthened to
semi-annually, and after 10 years, annually. Patients are advised to perform monthly breast
self-examination, paying special attention to the surgical site, the axilla, and the neck for
abnormal masses. As for recurrence, ER-, PR-, Her2+, or ER+, PR+, Her2+ or
triple-negative breast cancers often recur within 2 or 3 years of treatment, whereas ER+,
PR+, Her2- tend to recur 7-8 years after treatment. Recurrence may be local or distant
metastasis. Distant metastasis primarily involves the liver, lungs, and bones but may also
involve the brain. Management is similar to that of primary cancer, principally palliation and
the maintenance of life quality, followed by the extension of survival. Details to follow in
conference.
2.3-1
Rita Banik, India
Born and brought up in New Delhi, India, Rita studied M.Tech in Geology at Peoples’
Friendship University in Erstwhile USSR and later pursued Ph.D. in Geochemistry from
Indian School of Mines Dhanbad, India. Due to family ties she pursued a career in teaching
and became a Principal. Diagnosed in 2006 with breast cancer, Rita became involved in
counselling whilst she was still in hospital receiving treatment in Delhi. During her
chemotherapy treatment she spoke about her experiences at a seminar and published her
first article Coping with Cancer, in the reputed newspaper Times of India (6th September
2006). Following her treatment she provided support to patients at cancer hospital, Silchar,
Assam, and became involved in other charitable projects. Within a year of finishing
treatment Rita published her first book on breast cancer awareness, “Kick the beast out of
your life”.
In 2011 whilst working as a counsellor Rita met Rashmi Kapoor, who had undergone breast
cancer surgery. In September 2012 they registered a charitable trust called RACE (to
rein-in-cancer). The motif of the trust is to spread awareness anywhere and everywhere in
India, eradicate the fear of cancer from the minds of people, extend financial support and
most importantly educate people about the need of early detection.
Overcoming the shock of relapse through advocacy
Breast cancer relapse is always shocking for the survivor, especially if it happens after a long
gap of more than 5 years! When the recurrence is diagnosed one may feel cheated from
the previous treatment, shocked, angry, frightened at the return of cancer once again. One
may experience many other feelings like disbelief, anxiety, a sense of loss of control. Some
people may even find this diagnosis more upsetting than the first one. Yet many survivors,
based on their previous experiences, may intensify their advocacy of breast cancer, practice
and spread awareness about healthy diet and yoga, prepare themselves better to face the
challenges more boldly. I would like to share my personal experience of how I moved on,
even when I was diagnosed with recurrence after a long “cancer free” gap of seven years.
Presently I am running a Charitable Trust named RACE to rein-in-cancer, along with a small
group of dedicated volunteers. This presentation is about coping with the emotional factors
of relapse (how I coped myself) through:
• Healthy diet, regular exercise and yoga
• Increased Cancer Awareness Presentations
• Emphasis on the importance of “Early Detection” to people
• Hold screening camps for mammography & pap smear tests.
2.3-2
Huijun Liu, China
Dr. Huijun Liu is a professor of psychology, associate director of Institute of Psychology in
Tianjin Medical University, and a member of Committee of Physiological Psychology in
Chinese Psychological Society. Her research focuses on the self, motivation and emotion,
Patient-Doctor communication, and Post-traumatic Growth of cancer patients. She has been
devoting herself to applicate theory or principles of psychology to medical practice and
psychological-social supports for patients
Reconstruction of positive-self in breast cancer patients
Objective: Reconstructing the self-system is essential for cancer patients during
rehabilitation. The aim of the study was to investigate the psychological processes in
reconstructing positive-self for breast cancer patients. Method: In-depth interviews were
conducted in five breast cancer survivors. Interview data were scripted and analyzed by
qualitative methods. Results: Positive self reconstruction has four key components. First,
separate disease from a patient’s self-system, refrain from the function fixation of a patient
role, and return to the original social role. Second, consider the illness as “Objective” or
“Outside”, and then utilize positive thinking to regulate emotions. Third, lower the expectation
of positive outcomes from cancer treatments, and instead, focus on health management and
development of selfcare efficacy. Four, finding new possibilities after illness to promote
patients’ post-traumatic growth. Conclusion: The four critical processes of reconstructing
positive-self can help a breast cancer patient to cope with suffering and difficulties during
medical treatments and improve the quality of life post-trauma.
2.3-3
Teresa Mazzaferro Cuda, Australia
Portrait photography after breast cancer diagnosis-a catalyst translating the mundane
into a special moment
“I have the body of a warrior who does not kill or wound”, Deena Metzger Photography is a
core experience of the 21st Century. We see, consume, make and share photographic
images from phones to SRL cameras. Specifically portrait photography challenges and
confronts the viewer. My concern is how potentially empowering or precluding is the role of
today’s media and in particular portrait photography after the breast cancer diagnosis. This
article considers how race, age and beauty are key aspects in the portraits presented. To a
woman the breast is representative of her femininity. We are all familiar with the traditional
hourglass shape: a body with a waistline significantly smaller than the bust and hips ideally
teamed up with a flat belly. The diagnosis of breast cancer has a devastating effect. Being a
life changing event brings along not only physical changes but also mental and emotional
challenges. Personally, I question how these photographs can help to increase
self-confidence, empathy and desire to help others and how the portraits can become a
springboard to talk about and reflect upon the breast cancer experience. The portraits of my
collection try to transcend the disease and merge the powerful combined narratives of each
of the participants. This small project can potentially help to put the cancer experience into a
singular perspective. These images can tell you, the viewer, more about the sitter
experience and life and the photographer behind the lens.
2.3-4
Maria de Lurdes Cordeiro, Portugal
Testimony as breast cancer survivor
My name is Maria de Lurdes Cordeiro. I’m Portuguese, 67 years old and have been married
for 40 years with 2 sons: boy and girl.
I’m a survivor of breast cancer and had a total right mastectomy on 19 April 1983 and
reconstructive surgery with the muscles of the stomach in 2003. I went twenty years without
a breast that I did not miss, but then, I thought I could be happier.
For the three days after my surgery, I experienced horror. But one afternoon, a nurse told me
that I would get a visit from a volunteer named Maria Augusta Amado, who had experienced
a similar situation.
I have no words to describe what went on during the hour visit. The experience was so
strong and successful that after 32 years I can still remember, as if it happened yesterday.
She spoke very simple words, but the way they were told, radically changed my attitude. I
stopped seeing black, not even seeing grey, but a deeply brilliant white and this was only the
first meeting.
Ever since, we became close friends and I became part of her volunteering group which she
founded, the Reach to Recovery Movement in Portugal.
2.4-1
Tsu-Yin Wu, USA
Tsu-Yin Wu, Ph.D. RN, FAAN, is a Professor in the School of Nursing and Director of the
Healthy Asian Americans Project (HAAP) at the Eastern Michigan University. Throughout
her academic career, Dr. Wu has dedicated her work in decreasing health disparities and
improving the quality of life and healthy longevity for Asian Americans and Asians. Dr. Wu
has directed state, federally, and privately funded research programs to explore factors and
implement interventions to promote health behaviors and cancer screening behaviors. Her
extensive research funding from the National Cancer Institute, Department of Defense,
Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and WK Kellogg Foundation provides the evidence of her
expertise and commitment to rigorous research on issues facing by Asian Americans. Dr.
Wu willingly gives her time to mentor students at various levels pursuing research careers.
She has served as a reviewer for 18 prestigious journals in nursing and medical-related
disciplines. Her research instruments, clinical materials, and intervention programs using lay
health advisors have been adopted not only in the United States but also in Asia. In 2012-3,
she replicated a successful Lay Health Advisor Model to increase breast health awareness
and provide breast cancer screening in China and Taiwan. She is a prolific author and also
an internationally-recognized spokesperson for cancer disparities reduction. She has been
inducted into the Asian Heritage Hall of Fame and appointed to prestigious boards and
governor-appointed Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commissioner. In 2014, she
was inducted as a Fellow of Academy of American Nursing (FAAN).
Promoting breast cancer screening and awareness: a successful Komen Project in
Xi'an
Breast cancer is the most common cancer site and the most prominent cause of cancer
death among women in Asia. Despite the high incidence, rates are lower than western
countries, but the increase is at a more rapid rate in Asia. In western countries such as U.S.,
efforts have been undertaken to control breast cancer, leading to various improvements in
breast cancer outcomes. Effective strategies for breast cancer control are geared towards
early detection and early treatment. Currently, there is no population-based breast cancer
screening program in the majority of Asian countries, the majority of patients present with
advanced disease. Improving breast cancer outcomes in Asian countries remains one of top
priorities in cancer control. In this paper, the research team will present findings from
evidence-based programs in promoting breast health awareness and increase breast cancer
screening for underserved Asian American women in the U.S. through lay health advisor
model and innovative individually-tailored interventions. In addition, the paper will focus on
how the research team undertakes lessons to implement a Lay health Advisor training in
China and Taiwan to address behavioral and social factors contributing to delay in seeking
early detection. As results, the current program accomplished the following tasks:1.
Implemented and evaluate LHA training programs in Xi’An, 2. Trained 253 LHAs as
community change agents in breast cancer awareness and screening promotion, 3. Trained
more than 400 local health professionals in clinical breast examination, and 4. Provided
breast health education and breast cancer screening to 7932 and 5828 Chinese and
Taiwanese women. Continued effort is needed to develop comprehensive evidence-based
policy strategies for breast cancer control plan that consists of multi-sectors, government,
clinical practice, public advocacy, and community collaboration.
2.4-2
Yu Wang, China
I was born in 1986. As a postgraduate student with Public Administration. National
secondary Psychological consultant. The Secretary General of Xi’an Anti-cancer Club.
Assistant director of oncology clinic at The Fourth Military Medical University. I have
engaged in breast disease for 6 years. I have attend the training of ACSU. At present I serve
in the positions of Xi’an Anticancer Club, Shaanxi Provincial Health Association and Shaanxi
Provincial Health Association.
New practices and innovations-the establishment of a breast cancer resource service
CCRS put forward a proposal that Establish Rehabilitation workstation in many places. At
the same time, Xi’an Anti-cancer Club shows a positive response,and begun the site
selection in the same year. Cancer rehabilitation workstation is beginning to take shape in
April, 2015. The report which named The innovation and practice of Cancer rehabilitation
workstation got a lot of attentions.
This report will mainly introduce the experience of Cancer rehabilitation workstation in xi’an
and the practice and exploration in the Cancer rehabilitation workstation model.
2.2-3
Joanna Grzesiak, Poland
Joanna is a certified physiotherapist of rehabilitation breast cancer survivors and works as
coordinator of the Polish Federation of Breast Cancer Survivors Association which supports
polish women after breast surgery through 250 clubs in many cities in Poland. The
association organises many events and conducts training courses and workshops for
leaders and specialists on rehabilitation following breast cancer surgery. The Association
collaborates with the Ministry of Health and other a domestic institutes of health on matters
of oncology for patients in Poland. Joanna is studying for her Ph.D. in the Department of
Neurobiology in the University School of Physical Education in Poznań (Poland), and is an
author and co-author of many publications in the field of rehabilitation for patients with motor
and neurological impairment.
The situation and the approach to the care of women with advanced breast cancer in
Poland
Recent research has shown that the number of women with breast cancer in the world is
more than 1.4 million and despite the development of many methods and techniques of care
the number of women with a different kind of breast cancer grows constantly. Researchers
claim that of about one third of women with early recognition of stage of tumor can appear
the advanced stage of breast cancer. The polish research of women with advanced breast
cancer show the scale of problem with the adaptation of women to society (18.3%), the
acceptance of each other in daily meetings with friends and family (22.5%), the decrease of
gain in the financial matters (55.1%), many problems with accepting oneself (37.2%), the
decrease of daily activity (44.8%) and the approach to cure and to the improve of standard of
future life (50.4%). Recently representatives of the Ministry of Health have introduced the
BREAST CANCER PROGRAM in the Polish Centers of Health. The Breast Cancer Program
is based on a personalised and customised approach for every patient with breast cancer:
the personalization of treatment provides improved probability of effectiveness and a
positive and constructive relationship between patients and their doctors, conditions in which
fear and doubt can be replaced by greater knowledge and strong hope. We hope that the
introduction of the Breast Cancer Program to Polish’s standards of treatment will lead to
better life for women with breast cancer.
2.4-3
Hua Wang, China
Hua Wang was graduated from Shanxi university of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the
graduate of Integrated Chinese and Western medicines research. National secondary
Psychological consultant, she has engaged in breast disease for 15years. At present hold
the office of Xi’an Massage Hospital, and also hold the office of Chinese Breast Feeding
Association, and Xi’an Anticancer Club. She involved herself into the public welfare work
whole heartedly. Therefore, she has been hailed as protector of patients.
Spread the love in Xi’an - KaiHuaiXueYuan course of breast cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most common type of cancer among women. With the increasing
of the patients’ cognitive level and the interaction between patients and medical staffs. All
these ways can make a good understanding on the disease. On the one hand, they can
reduce the fear, on the other hand, they can enhance the determination of conquer cancer.
KaiHuaiXueYuan is known as the most successful course among Ethnic Chinese, It was
firstly launched by Kaihuai Association in TaiWan. Later it was held in USA and China. With
the help of Kaihuai Association in TaiWan, Kaihuai Association in Xi’an was formally
established in 2015. This report will have a brief introduction of KaiHuaiXueYuan in Xi’an. At
last, we hope our love will travel further.
3-1
Cheng-Har Yip, Malaysia
Dato’ Dr Yip Cheng Har, MBBS, FRCS (Glasg) FRCSEd FACS (Hon)
Consultant Breast Surgeon
Sime Darby Medical Cente Subang Jaya
Clinical care in advanced breast cancer
Advanced breast cancer refers to cancer diagnosed in Stage 3 or Stage 4. There are two
scenarios: 1. When a patient presents initially with a locally advanced or metastatic breast
cancer or 2. When a patient has been treated for breast cancer and there is a recurrence of
in the other parts of the body.
Clinical care of the patient depends on the presenting symptom. If the patient presents with
an ulcerating tumour in the breast, the priority is to reduce pain and smell, and wound
dressing. If operable, surgery may be the best palliation. Biopsy of the tumour have to be
done to determine if the cancer will respond to hormones or whether chemotherapy is the
only option. Targeted therapy may be effective in cancers which are HER2 positive. The
commonest site of metastases is the bones, and this presents as bone pain, fractures or
cord compression leading to paralysis. Pain control is important and surgery and
radiotherapy may be required in cases of fracture. The next commonest site is the lungs and
patients may complain of cough and breathlessness. A pleural effusion, ie fluid in the pleural
cavity, can be removed with a drainage tube. Liver metastases can be difficult to control as it
leads to poor appetite, nausea and abdominal distention. Once cancer has spread, cure is
not possible, but the cancer can be controlled for several years with a combination of
chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy and occasionallly radiotherapy. Quality of
life is important and it is importatn that the risks and benefits of treatment be explained.
3-2
Janine Porter-Steele, Australia
Janine Porter-Steele is a clinical nurse consultant, an accredited breast care nurse, women’s
health nurse and manager of The Wesley Hospital Choices Cancer Support Centre in
Brisbane, Australia. She has a Master’s degree in nursing leadership and is a PhD student
at Queensland University of Technology examining sexuality concerns and management
strategies for women after a diagnosis of cancer. Janine is also the “Women’s Wellness after
Cancer” Clinical Nurse Manager, based at QUT. She has a wide and varied background,
having worked in the community, hospitals, and in nurse education in both the UK and
Australia.
As part of her management role, Janine provides patient care and support, facilitates the
training of volunteers and sets up the programs from an evidence based/research
perspective. She provides community education and clinical support for Choices Cancer
Support Centre. http://wesley.com.au/services/choices-cancer-support-centre
Living well with secondary breast cancer:
A nurse led intervention to promote wellbeing
It is well recognised that the prognosis for secondary breast cancer has improved over the
past decade as the result of more effective and better tolerated therapies. For many it will
become a long-term “chronic” illness as opposed to an immediate life threatening one. Some
women are being diagnosed with secondary breast cancer many years after the early
diagnosis after possible decades of good health. However regardless of the time of
recurrence, where women with a new diagnosis receive breast care nurse support as a
matter of routine, women with secondary breast cancer do not.
Significantly lacking for this group of women is support around the ability to “live well with
secondary breast cancer”. Building on the work of Professor Debra Anderson and her
research team in the areas of Women’s Wellness after Cancer; Pink Women’s Wellness and
Women’s Wellness for midlife women, this new e-health, nurse led and facilitated
intervention will be further developed and aims to support wellness for women with
secondary breast cancer, focusing on key areas such as managing side effects of treatment,
fatigue, stress and anxiety and encourage appropriate exercise and nutrition to improve
quality of life at a social, emotional and physical level.
3-3
Wendy Lam, Hong Kong
Dr. Wendy Lam is currently Associate Professor at the School of Public Health, The
University of Hong Kong. She is the division head of Behavioural Sciences at the School.
She is also the deputy director of Centre for Psycho-Oncological Research and Teaching at
HKU. Her research interests focus on patient decision making, doctor-patient
communication, and psychosocial adjustment resulting from cancer diagnosis and treatment.
She was awarded the 2007 Hiroomi Kawano Young Investigator Award by the International
PsychoOncology Society for her work on Chinese women with breast cancer. She is one of
the co-founders of Asian-pacific Psycho-oncology Network. She serves as a director of the
Board of the International Psycho-oncology Society.
Psychological distress in women with advanced breast cancer
Improved treatment has increased length of survival for patients with advanced cancer to
many years. However, with the incurable and inevitably progressive nature of the condition,
the emotional demands of living with advanced cancer can be enormous, addressing the
psychosocial needs and quality of life issues among people with advanced cancer is growing
in importance. The prevailing view is that cancer diagnosis disrupts patients’ lives, leading to
psychological distress. Several studies have suggested that usually, but not always this
adjustment impact resolves within the first year following diagnosis. However, new evidence
reveals a different picture of adaptation to cancer and the individual differences that affect
how patients respond over time to the diagnosis of cancer. This presentation will examine
patterns of psychological distress among women with advanced breast cancer. Factors
predicting patterns of psychological distress will be explored. Finally, the implications for
improving psychosocial care of women dealing with advanced breast cancer will be
examined.
3-4
Jianguo Shi, China
Dr. Shi Jianguo is a certified pathologist, professor who leads the pathology research center
of the Fourth Military Medical University. He serves as the chief physician in oncology
department of Tangdu Hospital and licensed clinical laboratory supervisor in pathology. He
specializes in cancer, cardiovascular diseases and mental and psychological diseases and
has been active in the tumor clinical practice, pathology teaching and researching for over
20 years with over 60 papers published. He graduated from the Fourth Military Medical
University in 1978 with bachelor degree and obtained the master’s degree in pathology in
1989. Dr. Shi also plays active roles in several medical associations and organizations
including being counselor of Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organization Alliance, Deputy
Director of Chinese Cancer Rehabilitation Society, Executive Member of Shaanxi
Anti-cancer Association and Director of Xi’an Anti-cancer club
Breast Cancer Mind over Matter: from carcinogenesis, cancer therapy to cancer
rehabilitation
It is becoming increasingly clear that psychosocial factors play important functions on
etiology of breast cancer. There are obvious cancer-prone personality in our research
among the breast cancer patients in Xian Anti-cancer club enrolled from 1994 to 2014 in
Western China. Psychosocial factors take the role of carcinogenesis of breast cancer
through influence toendogenous levels of β-endorphin in the hypothalamus, stess response
axis, immune system and hormone secretion. These research results provide new combined
strategy on therapy of breast cancer. And the rehabilitaton of patients with breast cancer will
benefit greatly from active psychosocial interventions.
4-1
Ranjit Kaur, Malaysia
Volunteering in Low Resource Settings
Breast cancer survivors who give their time to support newly diagnosed women do so due to
an intrinsic motivation to help and contribute to the community without expecting any
gratitude. Reach to recovery volunteers choose to support others simply because they
realise the value of the psychosocial support that they had received previously. Offering
reach to recovery services in low resource settings pose a range of challenges not only for
patients but also for volunteers. Topping the list are financial issues, lack of access to
treatment and care, social taboos, myths and marginalisation, interruption in the woman’s
role in the family and in income generating work.
This session will show ways in which reach to recovery volunteers can support women in low
resource settings to cope with the challenges. At the same time, volunteers can also present
themselves as positive role models of recovery after breast cancer in order to motivate
newly diagnosed women in low resource settings to strive for return to good health.
4-2
Kevin Stein, USA
Peer Support and Exercise
Due to the toxicity of treatment, cancer survivors are increased risk for a number of health
conditions (e.g. late effects) relative to their age/gender matched peers in the general
population. A large body of evidence has demonstrated that healthy lifestyle behaviors (diet,
physical activity) can not only ameliorate symptoms of some conditions, but may also play
an integral role in the prevention of other conditions, as well as improve overall physical and
emotional health. As such, investigators have developed interventions aimed at improving
cancer survivors’ lifestyle behaviors. Such interventions have proven to be safe, effective,
and acceptable to survivors. However, most interventions have been conducted in controlled
clinical settings and are often delivered by professionally-trained staff. The use of peers to
provide the intervention represents a promising alternative to clinic-based, professional
delivered interventions. This presentation will identify and address current challenges to
moving effective and accessible interventions into the communitysetting. The presentation
will focus on the challenges to health behavior change among cancer survivors, including
moving lifestyle interventions from clinical settings to the public health setting (e.g.
translational research), studying how best to implement such intervention programs on a
community level, exploring new/novel methodologies and use of e-health technologies in
this work, and investigating issues around the maintenance of behavior change.
4-3
Melissa Hyde, Australia
Dr. Melissa Hyde currently holds a conjoint position with the Menzies Health Institute
Queensland, Griffith University and Cancer Council Queensland as a Research Fellow in
Psycho-Oncology and Community Engagement. She also co-leads the Community
Engagement Research Program at Cancer Council Queensland which studies volunteering,
fundraising, and other forms of participatory action that are critical for cancer control. Dr.
Hyde is an early career researcher having completed her PhD in 2009, in health psychology;
and was awarded the European Health Psychology Society Early Career
Researcher Award in 2013. Her research is focused on the psychosocial aspects of cancer
survivorship and the motivations and contributions of volunteers to cancer control.
Motivations in volunteering
Volunteers are essential for cancer control and contribute across a range of cancer settings,
and on a regular or episodic basis. This plenary will provide an overview of the ways in which
volunteers contribute across the cancer control spectrum from prevention to survivorship;
and will focus on three key aspects. These aspects include motivations for volunteering;
volunteer experiences (e.g., satisfaction); and outcomes for volunteers (e.g., health benefits;
post-traumatic growth). The plenary will include a special focus on breast cancer survivors
and Reach to Recovery volunteers.
4-4
Gloria Lin, Taiwan
Ms. Gloria was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995, and a later she joined the volunteer
work, hence began her impressive career as a volunteer and advocate for breast cancer.
She was the founding president of Taiwan Breast Cancer Alliance, a platform that
consolidates all the breast cancer patient support groups in Taiwan.
After her two terms of presidency were complete, Gloria continues to work as CEO in TBCA.
Her work and dedication to bring the awareness of patient’s rights, and improvement of
quality of life were not unnoticed. Gloria reeived UICC/RRI Asia Pacific Volunteer Award in
2006. She also received a medal of Health from the government of Taiwan. In 2009 Gloria
received UICC/RRI Terese Lasser Award.
Because of her experience in education and advocacy for breast cancer, Gloria has been in
Central
Cancer Prevention & Control Conference and cancer Prevention & Policy Commission in
Taiwan since 2008. Currently Gloria is also a member of Cancer Research Steering
committee.
Gloria is also a member of Committee of Strategy of Reach to Recovery International.
Personal benefits of volunteering
Some say that cancer is a gift of life. Ms. Gloria Lin accepted the gift box unwillingly, when
she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Later on she realized that what’s inside the box is
truly a wonderful gift. It is a calling, a calling to volunteer, to help other patients, to comfort
them, to help them with the challenges lie ahead of them.
On 2002 Gloria and a group of women founded Taiwan Breast Cancer Alliance, a platform
that unites the patient support groups in Taiwan. After serving two terms of presidency, she
has stayed on as CEO of TBCA ever since. Working in a not for profit organization means
long working hours and seemingly endless meetings. People often ask Gloria whether she
feels tired at all. She always replies that the physical fatigue is no comparison to the
emotional and spiritual fulfillment she receives.
In this presentation, Gloria is going to talk about her personal growth from an ordinary
housewife to a dedicated and veteran volunteer. In addition, she will share her thoughts on
what volunteering means to her as a patient, a survivor, and an advocate.
3.1-1
Leonie Young, Australia
Life beyond a cancer diagnosis: Overcoming the obstacles
Research into cancer survivorship and the development of survivorship care plans are
important and welcomed advancements in the management and care of people diagnosed
with cancer, however, a considerable number focus on physical and economic issues.
People affected by cancer need more than mere survival strategies. A patient confronted
with cancer commences on a narrative path described as a time of finding meaning, and
charts the ways patients learn about their condition, how they make meaning of it, construct
an identity as a patient, and an identity as someone who was a patient once. This last phase
is where the challenges lie - how to find meaningful survivorship beyond the cancer
diagnosis. Society’s views influence many decisions and attitudes concerned with managing
a cancer diagnosis. Often people are so frightened by the word “cancer” they hear nothing
else. Interestingly, hearing the diagnosis may actually be more traumatic for some,
regardless of the diagnosis and its severity. Mindfulness about the words used around
cancer and understanding the value of peer support are imperative to helping people
negotiate a cancer diagnosis. People not only have to manage their own feelings but also
those around them and this is one of the most troublesome aspects of a cancer diagnosis for
the majority of people. People who are affected by cancer can make a difference in
educating the community about more appropriate use of language when discussing cancer.
This could very well pave the way to better understanding and actively influence better
psychological outcomes for many.
3.1-2
Catherine Ngaracu – Mutua, Kenya
Catherine was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer in 2004, after she had detected a
lump whilst doing her own breast self-examination (BSE). She consulted a doctor and was
treated with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation and during this time did not encounter any
other women with breast cancer, relying on the support of her loving husband and family.
Following this experience she decided to help other newly diagnosed breast cancer patients
to start the journey with courage and hope and not feel alone.
Catherine is a trained Reach to Recovery Volunteer and is involved in giving
Peer Support to newly diagnosed women and their families on a voluntary basis and
advocating and creating awareness by teaching women how to do BSE and educating them
about the risk factors. Catherine is proud to be a Breast Cancer Survivor /Warrior.
Living well during and after breast cancer
I am a breast cancer survivor/warrior and from the time that I finished all my treatments, I felt
the need to educate and create awareness about breast cancer. Many women are ignorant
about checking their breasts and most of them could not be bothered. You cannot change
the fact that you have been diagnosed with cancer. What you can change is how you live the
rest of your life in new ways. One of the best things one can do is put healthy eating habits
and exercise into place. Looking and feeling good. To live on purpose!
3.1-3
Sandra A. Samuels-Reid, Jamaica
Mrs. Sandra Samuels-Reid is an Aesthetician & Barber and most importantly an
Entrepreneur, the Managing Director of the 20 year old Totally Male Limited, the only
business in the Caribbean that caters to the aesthetic and clothing needs of men only,
catered to by women only.
She has worked in a variety of customer service roles for large and small companies before
starting her own business in 1994.
Mrs. Samuels-Reid is a member of the Women Business Owners, President of the Rotary
Club of St. Andrew North, member of the Management Committee of the Heart College of
Beauty Services and Jamaica Cancer Society/Jamaica Reach to Recovery. As a 15 year
survivor of breast cancer she is one of the pioneers/warriors of the Jamaica Reach to
Recovery group in helping to spread the word to the public on early detection.
She is a motivational Speaker and also Grooming Consultant conducting Grooming and
Deportment seminars in schools and businesses. She still finds time to run and go to the
gym, church & socialize as she believes that life is all about balance.
Don’t just survive. Thrive after breast cancer
I would like to deliver a presentation/motivational talk on Thriving after Breast Cancer, driving
home the point that there is life even more abundantly post BC, as post the wakeup call
there is such an appreciation for life. I was diagnosed at the young age of 35, unmarried at
the time and petrified of what the future holds. What were the prospects now that I had one
breast, how does one bring up the topic and when to any potential suitor? Potential
Thrivers need to know that life goes on just like another woman with two breasts. Since my
diagnosis I am a living testimony of thriving. I was diagnosed in 1999 and since then I have
travelled extensively, I go to the gym five days per week, run 5km, 10km, half marathons
regularly, enjoy nature, love, friendship and took up the healing practice of meditation. I
would love to impart the importance of eating right and exercising to be able to live an
awesome life post BC. Finally I would like to touch on mental toughness and the need to
maintain a positive environment. In my summary I want to impress on the minds of the
participants the need to share and not keep BC a secret which helps many and also having
survived, spread the word on early detection. My aim is to promote self-love, lifestyle change
and a passion for life.
3.1-4
Iman Awad, Jordan
Iman is a twenty year survivor of breast cancer, diagnosed in 2005. She works as a Dentist,
is married and supported by her husband and family. With health, vitality and energy she
lives her life to the fullest and is thankful for every day.
Life is still wonderful – a survivor experience
I am a dentist, 55 years old, married and have two ladies and one gentleman living with me
in good conditions all of the time. I was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and
received chemotherapy first, then surgery to remove the tumour only, followed by radiation
therapy. I received Tamoxifen treatment for five years, then Femara for another five years.
Now I am full of health and energy. After I became involved in support groups I knew the
wisdom of my cancer; how to feel with other patients, the weak ones. How to manage my life
with my kids and husband, how to live every day in happiness and in a healthy way. I am not
sad or fear any more, even if I die. I still do what I want, travel where I can, eat what I like,
meet whom I love, this is the life. Some day we will leave it, but no one know when.
(Together we are stronger). Yes it is true, I love this title it says what I feel inside. In my
country (Jordan) the King Hussain Cancer Center is a perfect place where you can receive
medical cancer treatment and support for free. All Jordanians are very proud of it. We
believe that what God gives us, we must accept. We cannot change our destiny. With
patience and faith we will recover.
3.2-1
Yajun Sun, China
Sun Yajun is the executive editor/publisher in chief of TrendsHealth magazine which is the
first women’s magazine in China intended for mature, happy and healthy modern
white-collar women and provides full psychological and psychical health information. Sun
Yajun joined TrendsHealth in July 2000 with a long and sustainable concern about women’s
issues and launched a series of popular events that imposed profound influences on health
concept among Chinese. These events include: introduction of the Pink Ribbon Campaign
against Breast Cancer to China, Go for Red campaign for the protection of heart and Purple
Butterfly Campaign with focus on women thyroid health. TrendsHealth’s marketing influence
has been significant with the concept of life it delivers and series of planned events.
Sun Yajun has over ten years experience in magazine media with an education background
in Chinese in
Peking University. She grew from a journalist doing the basic interview to an editor and then
to an editorin-chief doing media planning and management in the field of social news and
modern life. TrendsHealth magazine that she leads is pioneering in high-end and
fashion-orientated health magazine in the field of international periodicals. TrendsHealth has
become the only original magazine with no copyright cooperation background among the top
10 best-selling fashion magazines in China, which has been hailed the most influential
fashion magazine.
Twelve years The Pink Ribbon - delivering the beauty and the force
There have been numerous taboos attached to breast and breast diseases for Chinese
women. In an eastern country which once carefully concealed body and diseases, people
would not even say the word breast publicly. In 2003, TrendsHealth as the initiator and
advocator of Chinese media introduced The Pink Ribbon Campaign to China. Every October
TrendsHealth will feature stories about breast cancer using magazine cover stars and
patients to share their stories in order to promote early identification, treatment and
prevention. TrendsHealth forms a pink alliance with different social sectors to make the pink
ribbons fly high every October through various ways, such as holding the pink art gallery and
the pink concert. Chinese women will no longer be afraid to talk about cancer and participate
in various pink actions like the pink run to promote the health life style beneficial for breast
health. TrendsHealth successfully builds the pink ribbon into a fashion and public-benefit
campaign with significant influence and calls society’s attention to know, care and support
breast cancer patients. Cancer will no longer be terrible and can even be the starting point to
change life style.
3.2-2
Jiajia Qiu, China
Jiajia Qiu, is a national psychological consultant and head nurse of the department of breast
surgery in Shanghai Cancer Center, and she’s the first top ten medical staff in the hospital.
She has a Master of Nursing and majors in clinical nursing and rehabilitative nursing for
breast cancer survivors. She has been the visiting scholar at MD Anderson Cancer Center,
USA for 3 months. She has published several papers and delivered a number of oral
presentations both at home and abroad. She is also a volunteer of Yankang Salon and
organizes professional activities for breast cancer survivors.
The status and expectation of education for breast cancer survivors
The study aims to introduce the definition and significance of patient education and
emphasize its importance; to recommend the content, form and strategy of supportive
education for breast cancer survivors, and put forward the expectation of supportive
education in mainland China. We hope to provide a theoretical basis and practical
evidence for breast cancer health care professionals.
3.2-3
Furjen Deng, USA
Breast Cancer Movement in US and Chinese-American Community: Challenges and
Outlooks
The presentation examines the breast cancer movement in the US and Chinese-American
Community. In particular, it focuses on the following three areas: 1) how US breast cancer
survivors and organizations are mobilized to influence public policy on breast cancer
research funding; 2) the current status and challenges encountered by Chinese-American
breast cancer organizations; and 3) a case study of the Light and Salt Association’s breast
cancer support program. Although there are significant differences between the US and
China in terms of the political, social, cultural, and health care systems, lessons learned from
the advocacy aspects of the US breast cancer movement may provide some insights for
breast cancer organizations in China. The content of the presentation consists of one of the
conference themes: how to build and maintain community support for breast cancer
awareness, detection, screening, and support services.
3.2-4
Yingxin Lu, Hong Kong
Building a territory-wide social support network for breast cancer survivors in Hong
Kong
Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent types of cancer in Hong Kong women, and the
number of incidences has increased by nearly 70% since 2002 (HK Cancer Registry, 2012).
Due to growing public interest in information and support for those affected, the number of
peer support groups has continued to rise since the mid-90s.
Established in 1987, Hong Kong Cancer Fund (HKCF) is the largest cancer support
organisation in Hong Kong providing free information and professional services to anyone
living with or affected by cancer. With the mission to ensure that no one faces cancer alone,
HKCF facilitates breast cancer peer support groups through its extensive network to benefit
clients, including those newly diagnosed. The first CancerLink centre was established in
1997 to address the physical and psychosocial needs of breast survivors through various
rehabilitation programmes.
Later in 1998, the Breast Cancer Alliance (BCA) was formed together with peer support
groups to promote breast cancer awareness and patient advocacy in Hong Kong. After years
of interventions, the BCA has become a service sharing platform for five breast cancer
survivor organisations with more than 1,900 members.
This presentation will highlight HKCF’s breast cancer support service model and its outcome,
including the achievements of BCA and the challenges ahead.
Presenter: Ms June LUK, Service Manager of Hong Kong Cancer Fund
Ms June Luk graduated from the University of Calgary with a BA in Sociology. She is the
Service Manager at Hong Kong Cancer Fund, responsible for overseeing the projects
funded by the organisation. She has 12 years of experience in poverty alleviation and
disaster relief in China, South East Asia and Africa.
3.3-1
Hongsheng Lin, China
Dr. Lin has worked on TCM and integrative medicine oncology for about 30
years. She is good at applying Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat cancer, such as breast
cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, etc. Her research works are focused on the
mechanisms of TCM medicine regulating the immune function of the cancer patients. She
charged several programs about cancer research of TCM which supported by National
Natural Science Foundation of China. As the directors of our state tenth and eleventh five
projects about TCM of oncology, Dr. Lin finished several multi-center, double-blind, clinical
randomized control trial of TCM herbs for the NSCLC.. Science then she has already
published more than 50 papers about the TCM Herbs applying in tumor treatment.
Status and Evaluation of TCM Herb in Breast Cancer Treatment
Comprehensive therapy on breast cancer includes surgical operation, chemotherapy,
radiotherapy, endocrinotherapy, and etc. The total therapeutic effect is improving by the
multiple choices in the treatment. TCM plays an important role in treating postoperative
syndrome, relieving side effects of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and endocrinotherapy, and
doing great favor to alleviate symptoms and signs, improve life quality and prolong survival
time. Here we summarized the status of clinical research work about TCM treatment in
breast cancer therapy, the advantages of TCM treatment and the development of the TCM
treatment in improving the clinical efficacy of breast cancer. We also introduced some
Chinese medicine which common applied in breast cancer treatment.
3.3-2
Hanping Shi, China
Professor Han Ping Shi is the Surgeon in Chief for the Department of Surgery, The First
Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, China
MEMBERSHIP
Chairman Chinese Society for Cancer Nutrition and Supportive Care
Chairman Guangdong Society of Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition
Chairman Guangdong Society of Nutritional Oncology
Chairman Guangzhou Society of Cancer Nutrition and Supportive Care
Chairman-in-elect Chinese Society for Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition
(CSPEN)
Vice Chairman Quality Control Center for Clinical Nutrition of Guangdong Province
Editor-in-Chief Electronic Journal of Metabolism and Nutrition of Cancer (China)
Editor-in-Chief Nutriology-Medical Reference (China)
Vice Editor-in-Chief
Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition (China)
PAPERS/Main Professional Books (Editor-in-Chief)
238 journal papers worldwide
13 books (Editor-in-Chief), such as
Perioperative Pathophysiology and Practice. People’s Medical Publishing House, 2010
Surgical Nutriology. People’s Military Medical Press, 2012
Nutritional Oncology. People’s Medical Publishing House, 2012
Handbook of PG-SGA. People’s Medical Publishing House, 2013
Nutrition Screening and Assessment. People’s Medical Publishing House, 2014
Cancer Cachexia People’s Medical Publishing House, 2015
Chinese Nutrition Therapy Guideline for Cancer Patients. People’s Medical Publishing
House, 2015
INVITED TALKS
468 invited talks have been given worldwide since 2003 (115 talks in 2014)
Impact of nutrition on quality of life
Nutrition for cancer patients should follow several rules: calories restriction, decreasing
intake of red meat and fat, increasing intake of fruits, vegetables, grain as well as protein.
Good nutrition can help patients to maintain ideal body weight, shape, size, figure and
physical performance, and return to work and return to society. Good nutrition can decrease
psychological disorders, increase self-esteem and maintain normal relationships with people.
Good nutrition can reduce side effects, complications of anti-cancer treatment, and enhance
tolerance and effect of cancer therapy. Good nutrition can save medical costs and decrease
the economic burden of patients’ family, thus improving quality of life from many aspects.
Nutrition therapy should become a fundamental part of cancer therapy and involve the whole
process of anti-cancer treatment.
3.3-3
Xinqi Liu, China
Soy peptide for cancer nutrition
The body tissues of cancer patients and other patients are seriously damaged and very
weak after chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgical operation. Protein nutrition is most
important for their recovery. However, they have no ability to digest protein from food and
utilize it. Small molecular soy peptide, rich in essential amino acids and functional peptide
fragments, is made from soy protein isolated by complex enzyme technology and the
average molecule weight is below 1,000DA. It can be absorbed by body directly without
digestion and provide nutrition to patients very quickly. This is very important to increase
immunity and fight against illness.
3.4-1
Zhengping Yuan, China
Zhengping Yuan is a part-tine professor and researcher with the Department of Social Work
at East China University of Science and Technology.
In 1981, he became ill with cancer. In 1989, he initiated the creation of Shanghai Cancer
Recovery Club and took the position of legal representative.
In 1990, he initiated the creation of the China Anti-Cancer Rehabilitation Organization and
took the position of Vice Chairman. His career has been dedicated to group anti-cancer for
25 years, and he has won the honors of “Shanghai Top 10 Persons of the Year,” “Top 10
Excellent Volunteers in Shanghai,” and the “Chinese Charity Award,” among others.
Professor Yuan has edited and published several books including “Cancer
Doesn’t Mean Death,” “Beyond Life,” and the drama “A Birth Mark.” He directed the TV serial
“The Last Days of A Xiang,” which was short-listed for the Shanghai International Television
Festival Magnolia Award. He has also published numerous articles.
Experience of Shanghai cancer recovery club
Breast cancer morbidity in Shanghai is very high. Breast cancer has become the third
leading cause of cancer deaths in Shanghai women. Cancer rehabilitation organizations
help these women head for happiness by providing instruction and information on what they
should do from the clinical treatment period to the disease recovery period. These
organizations help increase the survival rate and improve the quality of life for patients and
survivors.
Shanghai Cancer Recovery Club Breast Cancer Rehabilitation Guidance Center was
established September of 1997. There are about 4000 members who regularly attend center
activities. The center organizes monthly rehabilitation activities for new patients and also
organizes “One Happy Day” activity for members who are breast cancer patients. The club
has raised nearly one million Yuan for breast cancer activities in the last four years. In 2013,
the Second China Charity Exhibition was held in Shenzhen and the “Sisters Help Sisters Love Action Across Borders” organization awarded the Bronze Medal for Creativity to the
Shanghai Cancer Recovery Club.
3.4-2
Jiwei Wang, China
Jiwel Wang, PhD, was a lecturer at Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, School of Public
Health, Fudan University. He has been awarded much research funding, including from the
prestigious National Social Science Foundation of China. Dr. Wang has published over 30
journal articles, books, and chapters and has participated in key policy-applied research
initiatives. For example, he studied the mental health and quality of life of cancer survivors in
Shanghai, China. He has initiated and run with a number of research programs on quality of
life among cancer survivors and on active aging in collaboration with overseas universities.
Dr. Wang and his research team have published many papers reporting on the studies of
Shanghai Cancer Rehabilitation Club in providing behavioral, pscyho-social, informational,
and practical support to cancer survivors in selected districts in Shanghai.
The psychosocial intervention practice for breast cancer survivors in Shanghai
Cancer Rehabilitation Club(1) —from low self-esteem to self-confidence
Breast cancer survivors are often embroiled in various physical and psycho-social issues as
a consequence of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Psycho-social support activities in
the phase of rehabilitation were provided to enhance their quality of life. This study seeks to
explore and understand their experience of engagement in Shanghai Cancer Rehabilitation
Club (SCRC). Sixty-three participants attended eight semi-structured focus group interviews.
Data were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis framework was adopted for data
analysis. The participants reported benefits such as psychological support, informational
provision and skills in the activities. Group-based supported activities were reported to have
restored their dignity and confidence and enabled them to re discover their own meaning of
life, and developed healthy lifestyle. The psycho-social support activities of SCRC had
improved breast cancer survivor’s life.
3.4-3
Zhengnian Luo, China
Senior engineer, vice President of Shanghai Health Education Society, member of
International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids.
In 2002, he organized China’s first International Essential Fatty Acids Conference and
Xiangshan science conference (183th meeting).
In 2006, he participated and organized the Shanghai International Conference of Nutrition,
Exercise and Health. He contributed to promote to scientific researches and international
communications of nutrition medicine.
In 2010, he took the responsibility for Shanghai cancer rehabilitation health education work
and organized 10 thousand cancer patients to take rehabilitation training.
He lead his team to visit the anti-cancer association in United States, Canada and Italy
respectively in three continuous years, to promote the international communication of cancer
rehabilitation.
3.4-4
Dai Rong, China
Ms. Dai Rong, graduated from the Central Academy of Drama, Department of Directors. She
is the producer, director, and writer of numerous stage plays and a writer of films and TV
series. In February 2012, Ms. Dai was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. After series of
treatment, she is in stable condition now. Since her diagnosis, Ms. Dai actively engages
herself in various activities regarding or related to cancer patients and their fight against the
disease. She made two short films about how cancer patients regain confidence in their lives,
Summer Dreams and Repayment, directed the ceremony of the 25th anniversary of
Shanghai Cancer Recovery Club, and has a column about cancer fighting on the Weixin
platform of Jiefang Daily. At the moment, Ms. Dai is developing the “Theater Therapy”
program which is dedicated to providing physical and psychological support to cancer
patients by means of theater.
Theater Therapy - A physical and psychological recovery therapy for women
Female cancer patients suffer terribly from the diseases where their lives are affected in all
aspects. The Theater Therapy is based on the philosophies about self-growing and recovery
in education and psychology, and, through acting and participating in complete stage play
process, provide the participants with the opportunities to balance their emotions, exploit
from within, develop their ability to deal with life crisis, enjoy the beauty of life, and therefore
enhance their physical and psychological recovery. All 30 participants of the program are
female cancer patients, and some of the courses will be open to patient’s families.
The Theater Therapy is a cross-professional program which involves theater, education, and
psychiatric consulting and therapy. Our teaching staff consists of professionals of these
three fields. We provide various courses specifically designed for each participant based on
her conditions and demands, and help with her self-growing. All participants will become
physical and psychological recovery volunteers to help more female patients.
4.1-1
Margaret Karanja, Kenya
Margaret Karanja has a diploma in nursing and higher diploma in palliative care from Brooks
Oxford University. She works as a palliative care coordinator in prisons.
Improving the patient journey for women with breast cancer: an example of
collaboration and integration
Patients with advanced breast cancer were seen at the busy Kenyatta National Referral
Hospital. They were told about their diagnosis and the need for surgery, including
mastectomy, at the same appointment. Uptake of treatment was sometimes delayed whilst
patients came to terms with the diagnosis. Post-operative follow up was often missed
leading to psychological distress for some patients. A new collaboration was introduced
following the opening of Kamiti Prison Hospital Palliative Care Centre, to support the
follow-up of patients after discharge from Kenyatta National Hospital. Patients are seen in
the hospital where they are counselled about their diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. They
are then allocated to a support group where they share together and receive encouragement
and treatment options are discussed. As a result of this collaboration more patients are now
accepting their diagnosis and are booked in for surgery as early as possible. There are fewer
missed follow-ups and fewer instances of depression amongst post-operative patients.
There is now a seamless referral to the oncology clinic and a reciprocal referral process with
the peer support group.
We have improved the journey for patients with breast cancer through close working
between palliative care, surgery, pathology, oncology and peer support groups. This is an
example of how integration of palliative care into existing structures can benefit both the
patient and clinician experience and highlights the importance of collaborative work.
4.1-2
Deirdre Parr, New Zealand
Deirdre Parr was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003, and again in 2014. She is a past
chair of Breast Cancer Support Inc. (BCS) in Auckland, New Zealand, which provides peer
support to women with breast cancer, and she is a BCS support group co-ordinator. Deirdre
is a freelance researcher and book editor, and is studying theology at the University of
Auckland. Her poster presentation on “Exploring Bi-Cultural and Multicultural Models of
Support for Women with Breast Cancer in Aotearoa New Zealand’ at the 16th RRI Breast
Cancer Support Conference (2011), led to her interest in the role of spirituality in breast
cancer support in the New Zealand context. In 2014 she presented a paper on “Spirituality
and Breast Cancer Support in Aotearoa-New Zealand: Bicultural Journeys” at the Theology,
Spirituality & Cancer Symposium, University of Auckland, New Zealand.
Holding hands, having conversations: spirituality and breast cancer support in
Aotearoa-New Zealand
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among New Zealand women, with indigenous
Māori and Pacific communities experiencing significantly higher mortality risk from the
disease. ntil recently, organised breast cancer peer support in New Zealand has followed
western, Eurocentric models that give little or no recognition to the role of spirituality in
healing. By contrast, more holistic Māori, Pacific and Asian models of health recognise that
the two are intrinsically connected. In 2010, with the roll out of Whānau Ora by the New
Zealand Government, consideration of spirituality became formalised in the provision of
healthcare to Māori. This paper considers the different approaches to spirituality between
established, Eurocentric models of breast cancer support, and those arising out of Māori,
Pacific and Asian communities. It argues that, without a cultural framework or language for a
spirituality of healing, the Pākehā/western model is the least holistic, and that this has
impacted the delivery of support. On the other hand, until recently Māori, Pacific, and other
local, ethnic paradigms have not been engaged with, this has also disenfranchised women
from these communities.
In conclusion, I shall consider ways in which all members of New Zealand’s rich, bi-cultural
community might be brought into a conversation together, with the aim of delivering more
holistic and culturally appropriate support for all women with breast cancer, and ensuring
better outcomes for everyone.
4.1-3
Amnah Salleh, Malaysia
Amnah Salleh is married with 3 children, works as a Chartered Quantity Surveyor and was
diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer in Dec 2005. She is a volunteer with National Cancer
Society Malaysia and a member of Pink Unity since 2008. Also a trained Reach to Recovery
volunteer and has presented talks on breast cancer awareness at schools, universities and
general public, and has appeared on TV talk show programmes discussing topics related to
breast cancer and survivorship.
Giving hope, touching hearts
Surviving cancer is not necessarily a lonely journey. Help may come in many forms and from
many organisations. National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) is a non-profit
organisation established in 1966. NCSM is the first cancer-related NGO in Malaysia,
providing a complete range of services in cancer management from education to detection
and treatment including supporting cancer patients. Pink Unity, a support group established
in 2008 under NCSM, is run solely by women cancer survivors supporting women with all
types of cancer. HelpDesk was set up in 2011, run by volunteers from Pink Unity. Newly
diagnosed cancer patients who come to NCSM for treatment can come to HelpDesk to
speak to a volunteer who has gone through cancer. The HelpDesk also has resources such
as literature on cancer and can provide referral to specialists such as nutritionist, trained
counsellor etc. This presentation will share insights into how the HelpDesk functions and
how it benefits survivors and caregivers. HelpDesk now has 30 volunteers who have
assisted about 300 cancer patients. The outcome of HelpDesk has been very encouraging;
feedback received from patients and caregivers have shown that “Together We Are
Stronger”. Through HelpDesk, NCSM/PU aspires to give hope to newly diagnosed cancer
patients and their caregivers. The HelpDesk is seen as not only able to touch the hearts of
new survivors but also the volunteers who themselves have found it beneficial to be part of
the HelpDesk team, true to our tagline “GIVING HOPE, TOUCHING HEARTS”.
4.1-4
Joanne Lovelock, Australia
Joanne (Jo) Lovelock was diagnosed with early breast cancer in 2003 and underwent
surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment. Co facilitator and founder of three
cancer support groups, Jo has been volunteering and working with women and men with
breast cancer since 2004. Currently working full time as a breast care nurse, she continues
to support her local community through a variety of services.
Breast Cancer Network Australia; Supporting informing representing and connecting
Australians
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) works to ensure that Australians affected by breast
cancer receive the very best support, information, treatment and care appropriate to their
individual needs. BCNA is the peak national organisation for Australians affected by breast
cancer and consists of a network of more than 100,000 members with more than 90 %
having had a diagnosis of breast cancer. We are represented by the Pink Lady silhouette,
symbolising our focus on women diagnosed with breast cancer and all those around her.
The author has been a member of BCNA since her own diagnosis in 2003. Breast Intentions,
a support group that she co – facilitates is a member group of BCNA.
BCNA has provided the opportunity to participate in forums providing up to date information
and research and the ability to network with other women. The author has received
community liaison training enabling her to represent BCNA.
As a breast care nurse, BCNA resources are used daily in the author’s work life by providing
information kits, bras and breast prosthesis at no charge to newly diagnosed women and
linking them to the online network. The author also supports women with secondary breast
cancer. BCNA’s future holds exciting developments working on wellbeing and survivorship,
broadening our research agenda, focussing on the needs of women with secondary breast
cancer, and supporting women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds with
resources.
4.2-1
Jinghong Guan, China
Jinghong Guan is an attending surgeon with the Department of Breast Surgery, Peking
Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH). She is also the chairman of the 5th Global
Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance. She promoted the establishment of Pink
Garden Breast Care in October 2009. As the leader of Pink Garden, she was committed to
volunteer training and patient education, and she planned many major events. In 2011, she
produced the first CD issued by Pink Garden, “Pink Music Collection.” On Mother’s Day
2011, Dr. Guan participated in the planning of the charity performance “Pink Carnations,”
which focused on breast cancer awareness. The event was broadcast that day on CCTC-6.
She also planned the 5th Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organization Alliance Conference
in August 2014. As a surgeon, she participated in research to set up the breast-cancer
screening model for
Chinese women, which was directed by the Department of Breast Surgery at PUMCH. The
research was supported by the government as a key project. Dr. Guan has given lectures in
many communities, schools, and companies on breast cancer awareness and screening in
accordance with the PUMCH model.
Pink Garden Breast Care volunteer training
Pink Garden Breast Care was established in Oct.29 by the Department of Breast Surgery,
Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH). It is a non-profit organization attached to
PUMC Foundation. Doctors, nurses and breast cancer survivors become volunteers of Pink
Garden. One of the targets of Pink Garden is to help breast cancer patients by encouraging
them to finish their therapy, while the other is to raise breast cancer awareness in the healthy
population. Survivor volunteers come to the wards twice a week to visit patients who have
just undergone breast cancer surgery and those who are receiving chemotherapy. By May
2015, they had visited more than 6800 breast cancer patients. Volunteers also go to the
out-patient clinic to do consultation jobs. Every month, doctors and nurses from the
department of breast surgery give training lessons to the volunteers. These training lessons
include patient education profiles, communication and service skills. In 2011, Pink Garden
produced its first CD. The song “Gift of Life” was created by a breast cancer survivor and
was adopted as the theme of Pink Garden. In Aug 2014, the 5th Global Chinese Breast
Cancer Organizations Alliance Conference in Beijing was hosted by Pink Garden. The
content of 5GC included presentations on the most updated breast cancer information,
breast cancer screening in Chinese women, young women and breast cancer treatment,
and cancer-fighting experiences shared by patients. It included breakout sessions and
workshops with topics about bone health and exercise. Volunteers provided high quality
service during the conference and showed the PUMCH style to the world.
4.2-2
Rebecca Kiziri Mayengo, Uganda
Rebecca Kiziri Mayengo is 70 years of age and married. She has a MSc Psychology from,
University of Pittsburgh, USA and has worked as a psychologist. Rebecca is the current
chairperson of the Uganda Women’s Cancer Support Organisation (UWOCASO) and a
breast cancer survivor of 10 years. Her co-presenters for this abstract are Betty Mungati
Kwamya, Hilda Kemigisha Mwesigwa and Elizabeth Kabasabiti.
Building and maintaining community support for breast cancer awareness, detection,
screening and support services
According to the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) Annual Report 2010/2011, 60,000 cases of
cancer are registered annually; of these 27,000 are incidental show ups while 22,000 die
annually. The report predicted that by 2015, cancer cases would increase to 80,000 given
that the risk of getting cancer before the age of 75 is 17.8%. Currently 2,000 new cases are
registered annually at UCI, which is only 4% of the cancer cases countrywide. In the
absence of comprehensive statistics, it is difficult to establish the actual rate of increase.
Uganda Women’s Cancer Support Organization was founded by women breast cancer
survivors in 2004, with the main objective of creating breast and cervical cancer awareness
in Uganda. Activities we provide include: Breast health/cancer education through outreach
programs, patient support/counselling, capacity building/training, peer support/survivorship,
public events, advocacy and resource mobilization.
Achievements include:
• Counselling of newly diagnosed women with breast and cervical cancer/patient
navigation.
• Recruiting breast and cervical cancer survivors into the organization to share
experiences and challenges.
• Delivered a petition to the Government of Uganda requesting better cancer services and
treatment in the country.
• Training men and women on breast self-examination (BSE) and encouraging them to
screen for early detection.
Challenges faced are:
• Inadequate resources for volunteers to reach a wider population and failure of patients to
access treatment in time.
• Patients do not get appropriate treatment due to breakdown of one radiography and one
bone scan machine.
Recommendations:
• Volunteers to learn better methods of lobbying government.
• Volunteers to acquire better methods and skills for fundraising in order to accomplish the
planed activities of the organization.
4.2-3
Ranjit Kaur, Malaysia
The benefits of RRI peer support training
A volunteer activity that started with just one woman supporting another in the 1950’s has
evolved into a movement of peer support programmes worldwide. The benefit and value of
Reach to Recovery support programmes have been validated by research studies.
Breast cancer survivors who give their time to support newly diagnosed women do so due to
an intrinsic motivation to help and contribute to the community without any obligation. Many
among Reach to Recovery volunteers choose to support others also because they realise
the value of the psychosocial support that they had received previously. Peer support is a
unique relationship in which people with the same condition and experience provide
emotional support to each other and share knowledge about dealing effectively with the
impact of the disease.
Training is an important aspect of preparing Reach to Recovery volunteers to offer
psychosocial support to women with breast cancer. There are essential criteria that the
potential candidate has to meet in order to be recruited for Reach to Recovery training. The
training content not only includes the roles and responsibility of the volunteer, but also
interpersonal communication skills and respect for confidentiality among others. Retraining
and annual recertification are important aspects of ensuring that volunteers are updated and
appropriately supervised.
4.2-4
Sharon Lu, Taiwan
“Truly believed to be born to do acts of kindness”. Sharon trained as a licensed social worker
and project manager and was head of the Anti-Breast Cancer Team (TBCA), at Taiwan
Breast Cancer Alliance (TBCA) specializing in breast cancer prevention, education and
advocacy. She has grown up with breast cancer survivors, and implemented hundreds of
projects about breast cancer care and prevention since 2009, including fundraising,
investigations, prevention campaigns, public awareness lectures, intern training, new
service model development and international affairs.
Sharon resigned from TBCA at the beginning of this year to care for her loved ones and now
works as a volunteer for TBCA continuing her passion to care for others.
Build to Last - Cultivating awareness and building support amongst university
students.
Taiwan Breast Cancer Alliance (TBCA) has implemented breast cancer prevention
awareness lectures in communities since 2004, and systematized the procedure from 2009
with training programs, materials and observation. At the 16th RRI Conference, TBCA
shared the achievements of this project, and after completion, TBCA forwarded resources to
university students for promoting (“rooting”) awareness to young people and encouraging
them to inform family members, peer groups, and their colleagues. Since 2012, TBCA has
cooperated with Ministry of Education, Health Promotion Ministry, United Way (Taiwan),
Nurses Association, and other enterprises to develop and implement the new
project-“rooting”. Social marketing is combined with fundraising and advocacy to
communicate to the public. The concept, skills, movements and achievement of “rooting” will
be shared in this presentation. I welcome you to join the session and hear our lovely story.
4.3-1
Kecheng Xu, China
Guangzhou Fuda Cancer Hospital
Professor Xu Kecheng is a world-renowned specialist in digestive diseases, cancer
treatment. He is chief president of Guangzhou Fuda Cancer Hospital and Chairman of
Guangdong Provincial Light of Life Society of Cancer Rehabilitation and President of
International Society of Cryosurgery (ISC). In 2012, He was awarded with “Bethune Medal”,
the Top Honor Prize of the national medical profession in recognition of his outstanding
contribution in the anti-cancer cause in China and the world. Professor Xu is one of ten
prominent figures in Guangdong Province. In May of 2014, he was named the national “Role
Model of the Times” by the Propaganda Department of the Central
Committee of the CPC. So far, he has published over 500 scientific papers and 9 treatises,
co-authored
30 medical books such as Modern Cryosurgery for Cancer (English), Cryosurgery for
Cancer (Chinese), New Technique of Cancer Treatment-Irreversible Electroporation,
Modern Treatment for Digestive Disease, Clinical Pancreatology and Laboratory Test’s
Clinical Significance in Liver Disease Treatment.
Guided by medical reform and supported by CPC and the government, we will try all
out to develop cancer rehabilitation career
First of all, the article briefly reviews the important development stages from its
establishment till now, highlights stepping into an entirely new stage upon receiving great
supports from Guangdong Provincial and Guangzhou Municipal government. Light of Life
Society has been officially registered in the Guangdong Provincial Civil Affairs Bureau,
making it the first group rehabilitation organization for public welfare in Guangdong Province.
This article briefly reviews the important development stages from its establishment until
now and highlights stepping into an entirely new stage upon receiving great support from
Guangdong Provincial and Guanzhou Municipal Governments. Currently, the Society has
over 5000 members, 18 substations, and 3 branches. Light of Life Society holds health
lectures, recreational activities and group traveling etc. on a regular basis in order to help
cancer patients gain knowledge about cancer, overcome fears and tide over hard times.
Statistical data shows that 5-year survival rate of the Society’s members reach over 63%
which is almost the same as that of developed countries. And we also have made a detailed
work plan for the next period.
4.3-2
Jialiang Li, China
Dr. Jialiang Li obtained his PhD from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention
MD from the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College.
He has conducted scientific research at Chinese University of Hong Kong and Fuda Cancer
Hospital, and has published 23 papers about cancer cryoablation.
Breast cancer prevention - an effective way to protect women’s health
Breast cancer, which is an epithelial malignant tumor that occurs in the mammary gland, is
ranked as the highest incident cancer in China. Early detection of breast cancer is critically
important for breast cancer patient’s long-term survival. For localized breast cancer, 5 year
survival is about 95%. For later stage breast cancer, 5 year survival is below 25%. Several
techniques, such as mammography, breast ultrasound and MRI inspection, can be used for
early detection of breast cancer. BRCA1/2 gene mutation test can be used to find hereditary
breast cancer patients. Health management advice can be provided to healthy people to
decrease the risk of breast cancer and breast cancer screening examination can be
recommended for cancer high-risk groups.
4.3-3
Jibing Chen, China
Dr. Jibing Chen engaged in clinical immunologic treatment for 6 years, becoming skilled at
the detection of immune function and multiple immunotherapies cancer patients. In
November of 2011, Dr. Chen visited and studied at MD Anderson Cancer Center in the USA.
Also in 2011, he attended the 16th World Congress of the International Society of
Cryosurgery in Vienna, Austria, where he was awarded the Oral Presentation Prize for his
talk on cryo-cellular immunotherapy for late-stage cancer. Dr. Chen’s work on cryocellular
immunotherapy received wide-spread recognition and praise when he was invited to speak
at an academic meeting for researchers from Malaysia, Indonesia, India, and the
Philippines.
Effect of cryotherapy in metastatic breast cancer
This presentation will retrospectively assess the effect of cryotherapy in patients with
metastatic breast cancer (MBC) but without local recurrence after resection of the primary
lesion. We divided 120 MBC patients into cryotherapy (91 patients) and chemotherapy (29
patients) groups. In the cryotherapy group, 37 patients with tumor recurrence received
multiple cryoablations, while 54 patients received only a single cryoablation. Moreover, 62
cryotherapy-group patients underwent cryoablation immediately after the detection of
metastases (timely cryotherapy); 35 patients received simultaneous immunotherapy
(cryo-immunotherapy), and 29 patients underwent cryoablation in our hospital 3 months after
receiving chemotherapy in other centers (chemo-cryotherapy and delayed cryotherapy).
Overall survival (OS) after the diagnosis of MBC was assessed after a 10-year follow-up.
The median OS was higher in the cryotherapy group (55 months) than in the chemotherapy
group (27 months; P<0.0001). In the cryotherapy group, longer median OS was associated
with multiple (76 months) rather than single cryoablations (48 months; P=0.0005) and with
timely (67 months) rather than delayed cryoablation (48 months; P=0.0012). The median OS
was higher after cryo-immunotherapy (83 months) than after chemocryotherapy (48 months)
or cryotherapy alone (43 months; P<0.0001 for both). In conclusion, timely and multiple
cryoablations, especially when combined with immunotherapy, offer significant advantages
over chemotherapy in extending the OS of MBC patients.
4.3-4
Kecheng Xu, China
Cryotherapy
During the past 10 years in Guangzhou Fuda Cancer Hospital, comprehensive cryotherapy
(including ablation of the primary and metastatic lesions) has been used to significantly
reduce tumor load for more than 8000 cancer patients. Our current research results have
shown that the survival time of patients who suffered from metastatic solitary cancer can be
significantly improved by comprehensive cryotherapy, for both common (e.g. breast cancer,
lung cancer, hepatocellular cancer and pancreatic cancer) and uncommon (e.g. malignant
mesothelioma, malignant thymoma, esophageal, bladder and dermatofibrosarcoma
protuberans) cancers. Cryo-immunotherapy can further enlarge the survival time of patients.
The wound of cryoablation is tiny, the pain post cryoablation is less. Meanwhile, cryoablation
can alleviate abdominal pain in patients with pancreatic cancer and hepatocellular cancer
and improve the quality of life.
4.4-1
Xiangshun Kong, China
Nanjing, senior administrator, is the chairman of Jiangsu Provincial Cancer Rehabilitation
Organization, and president of the Nanjing Cancer Rehabilitation Association. Mr. Kong
served in the army in 1976, acted from as the squad leader,to the platoon leader, to the
political instructor, to the organization chief, and to the secretary of regiment party committee.
He participated in the battle in the Laoshan during the war with Vietnam, where the company
won the honorary title of “dagger even company”, and Mr. Kong was honored with
second-class prize. In 1993 Mr. Kong transferred from the army to the local government,
served from as secretary, to section chief, to deputy director of the district government office,
to vice-minister of the party committee of propaganda department, director of civilization
office, and researcher. Mr. Kong suffered from parathyroid tumor line In 2000, and unluckily
suffered from stomach cancer in 2008. As the president of the Association from 2013, Mr.
Kong is fully in compliance with the Articles of Association and leading the members of the
Association to rehabilitate scientifically, while focusing on building cancer rehabilitation
organization, helping to function normally, to establish self-brand, to develop scientifically. Mr.
Kong attaches great importance on the cooperation with universities, research institute and
has made great achievements in scientific research. He also focuses on the cooperation
with the for-profit companies, with the result of not only promoting the development of
enterprises, but also enhancing the vitality of its own cancer rehabilitation organization.
The effectiveness of anti-breast cancer groups
The collective anticancer civil organization is formed spontaneously by groups of cancer
patients. The work style of the collective anticancer civil organization has become a new
modality for rehabilitation of the cancer patients. From the perspective of the theory of the
third party, the type of the organization is in line with that of the third party with its
characteristics of civil, organization, non-profit distribution, autonomy and voluntary. Under
the current condition that services provided by the government and the health care system
can not meet the needs of rehabilitation of cancer patients, this very type of organization is
playing a positive role in society. In this paper, the author, based on the practice of the
Nanjing Cancer Rehabilitation Association, profoundly expounds the importance, role and
achievements of the cancer rehabilitation organization in anti-cancer and social work.
4.4-2
Jun Luo, China
Jun Luo, male, MPH graduated from Nanjing Medical University, senior experimentalist,
associate professor of Jiangsu Jiankang Vocational College. Research interests in public
health, medical experiments and data analysis. Member of Chinese Peasants and Workers
Democratic Party comprehensive health committee of Jiangsu province, Member of China
health vocational education examination professional committee, Member of experimental
medicine committee of JSAIM, Reviewers of the Chinese Journal of Surgical
Oncology. Chief editor, deputy editor of teaching materials, has more than 10 professional
papers published and one invention patent. Has hosted research project from Jiangsu
Province Health Department, research project of philosophy and social science of colleges
and universities in Jiangsu, involved in social science research project in Jiangsu.
Social utility analysis of group anticancer social work model report of Jiang Su
Province
This periodic study report is based on the funding research plan by social science fund
project of Jiangsu province, study time is expected from December 2013 to December 2016,
professor Ceng Qingqi from Jiangsu Jiankang Vocational College is the chief leader of this
study.
The database of Nanjing Cancer Rehabilitation Association members was statistically
analyzed, inaddition a random sample questionnaire survey was sent to 203 members
combined with a personal interview to obtain more information. Study results described
gender, age, membership time, age of cancer, type of cancer; statistical analysis was made
on the rehabilitation condition, quality of life, psychological state, the condition of economic
burden, tumor familial aggregation phenomenon, social support and care system.
4.4-3
Hui Shen, China
Hui Shen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work and Social Policy,
School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University and is an executive director of
Social Psychology Society in Jiangsu Province. She received her doctor degree in Sociology
from Nanjing University in 2005, and in 1998 was awarded her master degree in Psychology
from Northwest Normal University. She visited Harvard University from August 2012 to July
2013 as a visiting scholar, and had taken a temporary post of deputy director in social
organization management section in civil affairs bureau of Nanjing government from
November 2011 to August 2012.
Her main research interests are in medical social work and mental health, spirituality and
social work, and social Psychology. She hosted several research projects and conducted
many social service projects., She has published a book named the identity of middle class
in China in 2008 based on her doctoral thesis, and has published more than 30 papers in
social work and sociology fields.
The application of medical social work for the rehabilitation of cancer patients in
China
Medical Social work is a sub-discipline of social work, working with patients and their families
in need of social, economical or psychosocial help. Case work, group work and community
work are three direct intervention methods. Among them, the application of the Integrated
Body Mind Spirit (I-BMS) model in group work for the rehabilitation of cancer patients in
China has achieved good results. Based on oriental healing thought, the I-BMS group work
designed the activities from three dimensions: body, mind and spirit. Using multiple
intervention skills like acupoint massage, meditation, painting, role play and games, the
healing group led patients through four stages: identification, clarification, integration and
transformation. It is suggested that the I-BMS healing group is a worthy program and can
have wide application due to its many advantages like quick results, systematic design and
is suitable for Chinese people.
5-1
Kevin Stein, USA
Wendy Lam, Hong Kong
Philippa Decuir, USA
Linking across the globe: social media as a communication tool–Perspectives from
USA, Asia and Africa
Social media is an interactive web-based tool that allows users to create, share, and
communicate ideas. Without exception, breast cancer survivors are increasingly using social
media to find information, obtain social support, as well as share their stories. Little is known
about how social media is used in cancer care. In this presentation, each of the speakers will
share the experience of their community (i.e. America, Hong Kong, and Africa) on the use of
social networking and social media tools including Facebook, Twitter, Website, as well as
online peer support communities for cancer survivors. We will also discuss how to improve
and enhance the use of social media in providing cancer support to cancer survivors.
5-2
Ann Steyn, South Africa
Ann Steyn is the Immediate Past President of Reach to Recovery International (RRI), a
position she held from 2007 -2013. She is a breast cancer survivor, and a Reach to
Recovery volunteer. As the National RRI Coordinator for South Africa she became aware
of the needs throughout Africa of not only offering emotional and practical support to breast
cancer patients; but also breast cancer awareness programmes to help reduce the
prevalence of late stage presentation, and the myths and stigma that surround breast cancer.
With the help of a grant from Susan G Komen for the Cure she has had the opportunity to
address some of these concerns. She is on the Advisory board of the Global Focus on
Cancer and a director of People Living With Cancer (PLWC). Ann’s wish is to see supportive
care available for all breast cancer patients worldwide, with all women having the right to
available, affordable and accessible breast health treatment.
Reach to Recovery International then and now
This plenary presentation will document the founding of Reach to Recovery in 1953 by the
legendary Terese Lasser. It will follow the development of the organization from small
beginnings in the United States to the global organization that is today found in over 90
countries. It will discuss how along the way recognition was taken of the changing needs of
breast cancer patients , and also the ability of the Reach to Recovery programme to adapt to
the varying breast health situations found in the countries of its global family.
5-3
Cathy Brice Hirsch, USA
Reach to Recovery International (RRI) Moving Forward
This plenary presentation will highlight the many successes that Reach to Recovery
International has realized in bringing breast cancer support to the world stage and
cementing its place as a global priority. It will identify the problems and challenges still faced
by RRI and will map out a plan of action for ensuring provision of effective breast cancer
advocacy and support well into the future. The discussion will include an overview of
supportive care for breast cancer around the world.
6-1
Cathy Brice Hirsch, USA
President’s Address
Reach to Recovery International’s President will summarize the highlights of the 18th Reach
to Recovery International Breast Cancer Support Conference. She will describe the many
successes and achievements of the conference, set goals for the next RRI gathering, and
outline a plan for the way forward.
POSTER PRESENTATIONS
Omer Aftab, Pakistan
Mr. Omer Aftab is working as the Development Communications Professional for last 25
years specializing in campaigning, communications management and strategic public
relations with many proven success stories. Using different innovative communications
techniques, in less than seven years he has been able to break the silence about the issue
of breast cancer in a very conservative society. According to the official statistics there has
been increase of 30% in the patient inflow at breast clinics since the launch of the campaign
in Pakistan He also developed a self-sustaining model for Pink Ribbon Pakistan, and
running this non-funded campaign successfully for all these years which is an great
achievement for any non-profit in Pakistan He is the First Pakistani professional who has
been awarded the Frontline Golden World Award 2005 by International Public Relations
Association.
Creating awareness to fight breast cancer by eliminating the B word taboo
Pakistan is ranked 135th on the Gender Development Index of 174 countries. On the
Gender Empowerment Measurement (GEM) scale for 1999; Pakistan is at 100 out of the
102 countries studied. As for women’s health-Pakistan is among the lowest in the world
according to the World Bank report. The increasing radicalization of the conservative
Pakistani society makes it difficult to talk about breast cancer-the single largest killer of
women in Pakistan. Despite this challenge we are working toward a more aware population,
as well as one with accessible diagnostic facilities. We are also focusing on policy makers in
Pakistan so that breast cancer can become a part of the national health agenda. In Pakistan,
the majority of society maintains a very conservative mindset when it comes to certain topics.
The “B” word is not open for public or even private discussion. Despite the increasing need
for awareness and precautions to be taken against breast cancer, this mindset keeps
building up barriers to effective communication. This campaign can be the reason for the
fight to survive and survival of many mothers, sisters and daughters affected by breast
cancer. We owe our progress to persistence at educating the conservative mindset even
during dark and dangerous times. To the extent that we are able to start work on a breast
cancer diagnostic clinic in the same society where the “B” word made it impossible to even
mention this disease.
Laleh Busheri, India
Ms. Laleh Busheri is the CEO of Prashanti Cancer Care Mission since 2009. This non-profit
NGO in Pune, India works to provide medical care and support to cancer patients and their
families. Ms Laleh is actively involved in community outreach programs (annual marathons,
survivor picnics, and monthly gettogethers), pink-ribbon support groups, and creating breast
cancer awareness (medical conferences, breast cancer symposia and media propaganda).
She has been instrumental in establishing Orchids
and “Ray of Hope Award” from Asian Breast Cancer Congress in Bangalore 2013.
International School of Oncoplastic Surgery: A Prashanti Cancer Care Mission
Initiative
Oncoplastic Breast Surgery (OBS) achieves Immediate Breast Reconstruction wherein the
surgically removed diseased breast is restored in shape and size with implantable breast
prosthesis. While OBS reduces body asymmetry, postural problems and mental trauma, it
also enhances body image and selfesteem ultimately resulting in better rehabilitation of
patients. Unlike the western world, OBS is in its nascent stage in India as there is lack of
awareness amongst medical professionals and society per se. Orchids Breast Health Centre
and its multidisciplinary team are the leaders for OBS in India with over 100 surgeries
performed every year. An “International School of Oncoplastic Surgery” (ISOS) has been
established by our Centre in 2013 in collaboration with University of East Anglia, Norwich,
UK and senior faculty from Association of Breast Surgeons, UK. The main objectives of
ISOS are to educate and train aspiring Oncosurgeons in India and abroad in new techniques
and scientific advances in OBS. In addition, ISOS will also act as a patient advocacy group
to propagate the benefits of OBS in the general society as well as medical, healthcare and
insurance communities. Since its inception, ISOS has organized two Annual “Indo-British
Masterclass in OBS” in Pune, India. In these workshops, participants underwent hands-on
OBS training during live-surgeries performed by international experts. Interesting case
studies were highlighted followed by lively debates and discussions. Recent global trends
and scientific advances in Breast Cancer management were discussed in detail.
Karima Elshamy, Egypt
Developing practical strategies for improving equitable access to breast cancer care
and its hidden barriers
Numerous barriers to timely and equitable access to quality breast health care exist across
the cancer care continuum and negatively impact cancer outcomes. Improving access to
care and reducing disparities in outcomes requires identifying, understanding and
addressing those barriers. Barriers differ by location and population, but can generally be
characterized as: structural, sociocultural, personal and financial. Raising awareness and
reducing barriers to cancer care services can improve patient outcomes, provided
appropriate diagnostic and treatment facilities are available, accessible and acceptable. This
presentation will discuss how to improve equitable access to breast cancer care by reducing
barriers to breast health services.
Planning Step 1: Where are we now? (Investigate and assess)
• Assess access to breast health services for all women
• Assess community partnerships
• Identify patient barriers and facilitators.
Planning Step 2: Where do we want to be? (Set objectives and priorities)
• Identify community and health system partnerships
• Set achievable objectives
• Set priorities and determine feasibility of interventions.
Planning Step 3: How do we get there? (Implement and evaluate)
• Establish political and financial support• Launch, disseminate and implement
• Monitor and evaluate.
Karima Elshamy, Egypt
Effect of foot reflexology on pain and quality of life of breast cancer patients receiving
chemotherapy
Complementary therapies are increasingly being used in hospices and hospitals alongside
treatments in an attempt to improve patients’ quality of life. The objective of this study was to
assess the effect of foot reflexology in improving pain and quality of life of breast cancer
patients receiving chemotherapy.
A quasi- experimental design was conducted at Oncology Center, Mansoura University
Hospitals, Egypt. A total of 45 adult breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy were
randomly divided into two groups: control group, consisted of 22 patients received routine
care, intervention group, includes 23 patients received Foot Reflexology sessions for 3
weeks and each session lasted half an hour.
EORTIC QLQ-C30.V.3 and EORTIC QLQ-BR23.V.3 questionnaires and Numeric Pain
Rating Scale were two tools used before intervention and after and two weeks after end of
study.
Total score of quality of life was higher in the interventional group compared to control
groups. Using foot reflexology in patients suffering from breast cancer decreases pain and
improves the quality of life. Recommendations: Using foot reflexology can be an effective
method and can be recommended to breast cancer patients.
Divyesh Kumar, India
Dr Divyesh Kumar is a medical doctor, qualified radiation oncologist and Assistant Professor
at the Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali Government Institute of Medical Science & Research
(VCSGGMS & RI), located in, Srinagar, India.
Pre and post breast cancer and care awareness program analysis and its impact
amongst females
Breast cancer is the leading cause of invasive cancer in women worldwide. Knowledge of
this deadly disease is important for females, especially amongst the females of developing
countries so as to make early diagnosis of the disease and reduce its incidence. Awareness
programmes are an important component of supportive care. Objective - To assess the
knowledge of breast cancer and breast selfexamination (BSE) amongst the female health
care providers of the institute and to analyse the impact of breast cancer and BSE
awareness study in increasing their knowledge on the topic. Methods - 200 females (50
interns, 50 final year students, 50 nurses and 50 technicians) were evaluated on their
knowledge of breast cancer and breast self-examination. A questionnaire related to the topic
was completed pre and post awareness lecture. Student’s t test was used for statistical
analysis. Results were assessed using SPSS software version 20. Results - 45/50 (90%)
interns, 15/50 (30%) final year students, 12/50 (24%) nurses and 5/50 (10%) technicians
had adequate knowledge of breast cancer & BSE pre awareness study and this rose to
almost 100% amongst all, post awareness study. Results were found to be statistically
significant. Conclusion - Knowledge of females can be increased on breast cancer by
awareness studies which not only help in making an early diagnosis but will also help in
reducing the burden of disease.