. "The Knowledge Base for Key Clinical Issues in Breast Cancer." Breast Cancer: Setting Priorities for Effectiveness Research. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 1990.
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Breast Cancer: Setting Priorities for Effectiveness Research
Patient Choices in Management
Questions of patient preferences for quantity versus quality of life are important in many of the management decisions regarding breast cancer. It is imperative that the patient, regardless of whether she has nonmetastatic or metastatic disease, be well informed regarding the potential benefits but also the limitations and the expected morbidity of therapy for her condition. Both medical and philosophic questions must be thoroughly discussed with the patient. An understanding of patient views and preferences about alternative therapeutic strategies and the attendant impacts on quality of life will be critical to an adequate evaluation of the effectiveness of those therapeutic strategies.
