JLE

Bulletin du Cancer

MENU

Femininity and breast cancer, original approach of announcement in oncology Volume 95, issue 9, septembre 2008

Figures

See all figures

Authors
Département d’oncohématologie, CHU l’Archet-I, 151, route de Saint-Antoine-de-Ginestière, 06200 Nice, France

The measure number 40 of French Plan against Cancer requires taking into consideration patient’s personality and its effect on social relations. However, this psychological impact is different for each cancer. The aim of the present study is to discuss the resulting effects after discovery of breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women and it’s becomes a greater fear of our society. Psychological impact of breast cancer discovery is double: first, it is linked to the bad image of cancer which means suffering and death, then to the good image of breast, symbol of femininity, sexuality and maternity. Considering together these two components can permit to optimize information, listening, help and finally adhesion to treatment. And, if the psycho-oncology is now essential, tomorrow socio-esthetic will come within the framework of more human practice in oncology. Paradoxically, whereas early diagnosis is more frequent and its treatment is improved, breast cancer remains an alarming disease. So, physician can propose since announcement a best utilization of supportive care in order to limit personal and social impact.