Critical appraisal:Duffy CM, Allen SM, Clark MA 2005

Critical Appraisal

Article being appraised

Duffy CM, Allen SM, Clark MA. Discussions regarding reproductive health for young women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. J Clin Oncol 2005 Feb 1;23(4):766-73 Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15681520.

Applicable clinical question

What proportion of cancer patients have a discussion regarding the risk of infertility with a health professional?

Key Facts

Study Design

cross sectional study

Study aims:

To explore the self-reporting of reproductive health counseling by young women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Number of Patients:

166

Premenopausal women aged </= 50 years recruited as part of a randomized controlled clinical trial aimed at stress reduction

Reported outcome(s):

68% reported recalling a discussion regarding early menopause
34% reported recalling a discussion on fertility

Results of outcome(s):

In multivariate analysis, hormonal therapy, early stage of disease and difficulty communicating with medical team were associated with increased odds of recall of a discussion regarding menopause.
was associated with increased odds Older age and anxiety in medical situations were associated with decreased odds of recalling a discussion regarding fertility

Includes an economic evaluation

no