[3083] Assessing the needs of women with advanced (metastatic) breast cancer. Mayer M, Grober SE, Caplan ES. Living beyond Breast Cancer, Ardmore, PA Background: As new treatments extend life, women with advanced (metastatic) breast cancer (ABC) have increased needs for information and support. The purpose of this study was to conduct an in-depth assessment of these needs and to help plan new programs and services. Methods: Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC) staff, consultants and an advisory committee developed a 64-question survey administered online and on paper to people with ABC, focusing on valued and desired services. Online, in-person, print media, and telephone services were assessed. Data was gathered using web-based [] paper survey versions. Results: A total of 697 people with ABC responded, 619 online; 78 on paper. Those who took the survey on paper were older, with 47% aged 60 and over, while 70% of online respondents were ages 40-59. Further differences between online and paper survey groups await analysis. In a preliminary combined analysis of respondents, 87% were US residents, 94% were Caucasian, and 99% were female. Four-fifths (86%) relied on private insurance and/or Medicare. Nearly half (47%) were working full or part-time, with 24% on disability or unemployed. Three-quarters (77%) had children, many still at home. Length of time since ABC diagnosis was variable: 22% [] 1 year, 35% 1-2 years, 29% 3-5 years, 10% 6-10 years, 4% > 10 years. Three-quarters (75%) were currently in treatment with active disease, with metastases to bone (68%), liver (47%), lungs/pleura (37%), and CNS (11%). One-half (49%) received hormonal treatment for ABC, 43% chemotherapy, and 30% biological therapy, while 6% had enrolled in clinical trials. Most frequently reported current symptoms/side-effects were fatigue or weakness (67%), cognitive problems (60%), sexual dysfunction (60%), disturbed sleep (56%), hot flashes (50%), pain (49%), depression (34%), and anxiety (28%). However, 44% found maintaining daily routines and activities very easy/easy, 37% somewhat easy, and only 19% difficult/very difficult. The desire for information and support was strong. Two-thirds (67%) of respondents sought information on ABC at least weekly, 27% daily. Similarly, 62% sought emotional/practical support at least weekly, and 30% daily. Top ranked informational needs focus on treatment options, including clinical trials and symptoms/side-effects management. Top ranked support needs include stress management and online and in-person support groups. Top ranked practical needs center on referrals for medical care and information with health insurance, Medicare/Medicaid and disability. Conclusions: There is a growing need for targeted education, information and support for women with advanced (metastatic) breast cancer. This survey offers key insights into the experiences, preferences and behaviors of this underserved population and will be used both to inform program development at LBBC and to educate other health professionals in the breast cancer community. In-depth analyses will be presented at the conference. Friday, December 9, 2005 5:00 PM Poster Session III: Epidemiology, Advocacy, and Education: Advocacy and Education (5:00 PM-7:00 PM) Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.