Assessment of Psychosocial and Functional Effects of Metastatic Breast Cancer in Tarnow Region of Poland and Among the Social Media Polish Group-Results from the Survey from Patients.

The aim of the study was a comprehensive assessment of metastatic breast cancer patients' needs in Poland. We conducted and culturally adapted and validated "Count Us, Know Us, Join Us" Metastatic Breast Cancer Survey between November 2018 and July 2019. Two hundred ten patients treated in Tarnów completed the paper questionnaires distributed conveniently by healthcare professionals, and 110 patients completed the online survey. Almost all patients believe that new therapies are necessary, and over a half find their options of treatment limited. Support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals seems sufficient. Most patients declare a negative impact of the disease on their emotional status and ability to maintain their lifestyle, finances, and job with one-third of respondents being employed. Three-quarters of patients actively seek data about cancer. The main source of information for Polish patients is the Internet, and they are primarily interested in the ways of managing side effects and available treatment options. We identified factors related to satisfaction with communication with the healthcare professionals. The results are generally consistent with similar studies across the universe. This may indicate that several issues have not been addressed over the years, and there is an urgent need to join international forces to raise awareness and support for metastatic breast cancer patients and lobby for better treatment outcomes.