Multidisciplinary Implementation of Neoadjuvant Therapy for Early Breast Cancer in a Middle-income Country—Real-world Challenges in Malaysia
Journal
Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology
Year
2025
Materials & Methods
We used deliberative stakeholder consultation, a descriptive qualitative study design, for data collection. Sixteen breast cancer specialists (seven breast surgeons, seven clinical oncologists, one radiologist, and one pathologist) from 11 tertiary centers in Malaysia were purposively recruited. Deliberations were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed to generate analytical and deliberative outputs. A literature search was performed to ensure that consensus statements were aligned with scientific evidence and clinical practice guidelines.
Results
Four barrier themes affecting NAT implementation were derived: (1) diagnostic delays, (2) lack of access to oncology services, (3) patient low acceptance of NAT, and (4) high treatment costs. We highlighted potential solutions to address each barrier. Seven key areas for improvement were identified across the EBC care pathway: (1) rational use of imaging modalities, (2) biopsy sampling technique, (3) standardized histopathological reporting, (4) patient selection for NAT, (5) marker clip insertion, (6) monitoring during NAT, and (7) surgical axillary management. Expert recommendations for practice-change interventions were in alignment with published international, national, and institutional guidelines.
Conclusion
Barriers to NAT in Malaysia are multifactorial. This study draws on a multidisciplinary stakeholder perspective to define real-world challenges faced by breast cancer specialists and provides recommendations for implementing guideline-recommended practices for NAT utilization in the local healthcare setting.
Resources and Links
Phone Number: +603 2781 4519 / +603 2781 4520
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ajco.14185
Share the Page
|
Information
Consultant Name
Dr Mastura Md Yusof
For general questions about clinical trials
Phone Number: +603 2781 4519 / +603 2781 4520
Clinical trials are part of research studies involving patient volunteers that are conducted to find safe and effective treatments for a variety of health conditions. They are critical to the advancement of medicine and improving patient health. Participating in clinical trials offers patients the opportunity to try new and effective treatments that could potentially improve their condition while taking part in vital research that can benefit many future patients.
In Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, clinical trials are carried out under our Clinical Research team.
If you would like to participate in any of our clinical trials or would like to know, please provide your information below and we will be in touch with you:
8, Jalan Bukit Pantai, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
.png?sfvrsn=71934c60_8)
.png?sfvrsn=1370dfbd_9)
