| Summary: | 碩士 === 國立臺灣師範大學 === 健康促進與衛生教育學系 === 107 === Purpose This study investigates how pre-operative social support impacts post-operative quality of life for breast cancer patients who have undergone reconstruction surgery. Methods A retrospective study was conducted to collect data from a medical center in Taipei City from April 1, 2016 to May 31, 2018. Patients who had breast reconstruction surgery immediately after mastectomy were surveyed using open-ended interviews and questionnaires to gather demographic information and factors related to the patients’ decision-making process, social support structure, and quality of life, including feelings of depression or anxiety. Results Information such as marital status, family medical history, pre-operative knowledge of reconstruction survey, and pre-consultation with a plastic surgeon were significantly associated with pre-operative social support. Breast cancer surgery methods, health insurance, family medical history, family income, pre-operative knowledge of reconstruction surgery are significantly associated with post-operative rates of depression and anxiety in patients. Conclusions and recommendations When women with breast reconstruction receive more social support, post-operative quality of life is better with fewer incidences of depression and anxiety. To help reduce decision-making conflicts for patients, medical professionals should first understand the patient’s social support structure and educational background. If patients do not have pre-operative knowledge of the process or social support, medical professionals should refer the patient to the Association of Patients and Cancer Oncology Counselors for an intervention assessment that can reduce the likelihood of depression and anxiety after reconstruction. It is also recommended that the government include breast cancer reconstruction into the scope of universal health insurance payments. Funding breast reconstruction will lead to fewer long-term psychological problems, which would cost more to treat in the long run.
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