Physicians’ attitudes and perceived barriers to adherence to the national breast cancer clinical practice guidelines in Mexico: a survey study

Background Adherence to clinical practice guidelines improves outcomes for patients with breast cancer. However, their implementation may not be feasible in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to evaluate physicians’ adherence, attitudes, and barriers towards the Colima Consensus, which is the Mexican national breast cancer clinical practice guideline. Methods A cross-sectional, 31-item survey was e-mailed to Consensus attendees and members of the Mexican Society of Oncology and Mexican Mastology Association. Descriptive statistics, univariate, and multivariate analysis were used to analyze the associations between participants’ characteristics, adherence, attitudes, and barriers. Result Of 439 respondents, 78% percent adhered to Consensus recommendations and 94% believed it was applicable to their clinical practice. Forty percent reported using the Consensus as their sole breast cancer guideline. This was associated with being a surgical oncologist (OR 3.3, 95% CI 2.0–5.3) and practicing at a public hospital (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.7). The most common barriers to adherence were lack of resources and logistical problems. Regarding attitudes towards the Consensus, 90% considered it a good educational tool, 89% considered it a reliable source of information, and 90% thought it improved quality of care. Conclusions We showed high levels of adherence and positive attitudes towards the Colima Consensus, with a significant proportion of physicians using it as their only guideline. Lack of resources and logistical issues were the main barriers to adherence. Our results highlight the relevance of local breast cancer guidelines and suggest a need for the creation of resource-stratified guidelines (AU)

Physicians' attitudes and perceived barriers to adherence to the national breast cancer clinical practice guidelines in Mexico: a survey study.

BACKGROUND: Adherence to clinical practice guidelines improves outcomes for patients with breast cancer. However, their implementation may not be feasible in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to evaluate physicians' adherence, attitudes, and barriers towards the Colima Consensus, which is the Mexican national breast cancer clinical practice guideline. METHODS: A cross-sectional, 31-item survey was e-mailed to Consensus attendees and members of the Mexican Society of Oncology and Mexican Mastology Association. Descriptive statistics, univariate, and multivariate analysis were used to analyze the associations between participants' characteristics, adherence, attitudes, and barriers. RESULTS: Of 439 respondents, 78% percent adhered to Consensus recommendations and 94% believed it was applicable to their clinical practice. Forty percent reported using the Consensus as their sole breast cancer guideline. This was associated with being a surgical oncologist (OR 3.3, 95% CI 2.0-5.3) and practicing at a public hospital (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.7). The most common barriers to adherence were lack of resources and logistical problems. Regarding attitudes towards the Consensus, 90% considered it a good educational tool, 89% considered it a reliable source of information, and 90% thought it improved quality of care. CONCLUSIONS: We showed high levels of adherence and positive attitudes towards the Colima Consensus, with a significant proportion of physicians using it as their only guideline. Lack of resources and logistical issues were the main barriers to adherence. Our results highlight the relevance of local breast cancer guidelines and suggest a need for the creation of resource-stratified guidelines.

Breast cancer survival by immunohistochemistry-determined subtype: A retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer subtype classification according to hormone receptors (HR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) using immunohistochemistry is the standard practice for therapeutic decision making. OBJECTIVE: To design future studies information on characteristics and survival of each subtype is essential. METHOD: We conducted a retrospective study to analyze clinical and pathologic features as well as survival data according to breast cancer immunohistochemistry subtype. RESULTS: There were 211 women with a RH(+)/HER2(-) breast cancer subtype, 53 HR(+)/HER2(+), 16 HER2(+) and 23 HR(-)/HER2(-), with a median overall survival in months of 39 (20.5-62.7), 42 (25.5-65), 42 (13.7-67.7) and 26 (11-78), respectively, for a 3.7 hazard ratio of death (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.3-10.3) for the triple negative group as compared to the HR(+)/HER2(-) group (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: HR positive subtypes by immunohistochemistry where most frequent and showed a greater overall survival compared to the triple negative subtype.

[Supervivencia en cáncer de mama por subtipo mediante inmunohistoquímica: Un estudio retrospectivo].

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer subtype classification according to hormone receptors (HR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) using immunohistochemistry is the standard practice for therapeutic decision making. OBJECTIVE: To design future studies information on characteristics and survival of each subtype is essential. METHOD: We conducted a retrospective study to analyze clinical and pathologic features as well as survival data according to breast cancer immunohistochemistry subtype. RESULTS: There were 211 women with a RH(+)/HER2(-) breast cancer subtype, 53 HR(+)/HER2(+), 16 HER2(+) and 23 HR(-)/HER2(-), with a median overall survival in months of 39 (20.5-62.7), 42 (25.5-65), 42 (13.7-67.7) and 26 (11-78), respectively, for a 3.7 hazard ratio of death (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.3-10.3) for the triple negative group as compared to the HR(+)/HER2(-) group (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: HR positive subtypes by immunohistochemistry where most frequent and showed a greater overall survival compared to the triple negative subtype.

ANTECEDENTES: La clasificación del cáncer de mama en subtipos mediante la expresión de receptores hormonales (RH) y del receptor 2 del factor de crecimiento epidérmico humano (HER2) por inmunohistoquímica (IHQ) es una práctica estándar para la toma de decisiones terapéuticas. OBJETIVO: Conocer las características y supervivencia de cada subtipo de pacientes, que es indispensable para poder diseñar futuros estudios. MÉTODO: Realizamos un estudio retrospectivo evaluando las características clinicopatológicas y la supervivencia por subtipo mediante IHQ en mujeres con cáncer de mama. RESULTADOS: 211 mujeres con cáncer de mama RH(+)/HER2(­), 53 con RH(+)/HER2(+), 16 con HER2(+) y 23 con RH(­)/HER2(­), con una mediana de supervivencia global en meses de 39 (20.5-62.7), 42 (25.5-65), 42 (13.7-67.7) y 26 (11-78), respectivamente, para un cociente de riesgo (HR por sus siglas en inglés, Hazard Ratio): 3.7 (IC 95%: 1.3-10.3) en el grupo triple negativo comparado con RH(+)/HER2(­) (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIÓN: Los subtipos con RH positivos por IHQ son los más frecuentes y este grupo de pacientes tienen una mejor supervivencia global comparada con las pacientes triple negativo.

Supervivencia en cáncer de mama por subtipo mediante inmunohistoquímica: Un estudio retrospectivo / Survival in breast cancer by subtype by immunohistochemistry: A retrospective study

Resumen Antecedentes: La clasificación del cáncer de mama en subtipos mediante la expresión de receptores hormonales (RH) y del receptor 2 del factor de crecimiento epidérmico humano (HER2) por inmunohistoquímica (IHQ) es una práctica estándar para la toma de decisiones terapéuticas. Objetivo: Conocer las características y supervivencia de cada subtipo de pacientes, que es indispensable para poder diseñar futuros estudios. Método: Realizamos un estudio retrospectivo evaluando las características clinicopatológicas y la supervivencia por subtipo mediante IHQ en mujeres con cáncer de mama. Resultados: 211 mujeres con cáncer de mama RH(+)/HER2(-), 53 con RH(+)/HER2(+), 16 con HER2(+) y 23 con RH(-)/HER2(-), con una mediana de supervivencia global en meses de 39 (20.5-62.7), 42 (25.5-65), 42 (13.7-67.7) y 26 (11-78), respectivamente, para un cociente de riesgo (HR por sus siglas en inglés, Hazard Ratio): 3.7 (IC 95%: 1.3-10.3) en el grupo triple negativo comparado con RH(+)/HER2(-) (p = 0.01). Conclusión: Los subtipos con RH positivos por IHQ son los más frecuentes y este grupo de pacientes tienen una mejor supervivencia global comparada con las pacientes triple negativo.

Abstract Background: Breast cancer subtype classification according to hormone receptors (HR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) using immunohistochemistry is the standard practice for therapeutic decision making. Objective: To design future studies information on characteristics and survival of each subtype is essential. Method: We conducted a retrospective study to analyze clinical and pathologic features as well as survival data according to breast cancer immunohistochemistry subtype. Results: There were 211 women with a RH(+)/HER2(-) breast cancer subtype, 53 HR(+)/HER2(+), 16 HER2(+) and 23 HR(-)/HER2(-), with a median overall survival in months of 39 (20.5-62.7), 42 (25.5-65), 42 (13.7-67.7) and 26 (11-78), respectively, for a 3.7 hazard ratio of death (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.3-10.3) for the triple negative group as compared to the HR(+)/HER2(-) group (p = 0.01). Conclusions: HR positive subtypes by immunohistochemistry where most frequent and showed a greater overall survival compared to the triple negative subtype.

[Third National Ovarian Consensus. 2011. Grupo de Investigación en Cáncer de Ovario y Tumores Ginecológicos de México "GICOM"]. / Tercer Consenso Nacional de Cáncer de Ovario 2011. Grupo de Investigación en Cáncer de Ovario y Tumores Ginecológicos de México "GICOM".

INTRODUCTION: Ovarian cancer (OC) is the third most common gynecologic malignancy worldwide. Most of cases it is of epithelial origin. At the present time there is not a standardized screening method, which makes difficult the early diagnosis. The 5-year survival is 90% for early stages, however most cases present at advanced stages, which have a 5-year survival of only 5-20%. GICOM collaborative group, under the auspice of different institutions, have made the following consensus in order to make recommendations for the diagnosis and management regarding to this neoplasia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The following recommendations were made by independent professionals in the field of Gynecologic Oncology, questions and statements were based on a comprehensive and systematic review of literature. It took place in the context of a meeting of two days in which a debate was held. These statements are the conclusions reached by agreement of the participant members. RESULTS: No screening method is recommended at the time for the detection of early lesions of ovarian cancer in general population. Staging is surgical, according to FIGO. In regards to the pre-surgery evaluation of the patient, it is recommended to perform chest radiography and CT scan of abdomen and pelvis with IV contrast. According to the histopathology of the tumor, in order to consider it as borderline, the minimum percentage of proliferative component must be 10% of tumor's surface. The recommended standardized treatment includes primary surgery for diagnosis, staging and cytoreduction, followed by adjuvant chemotherapy Surgery must be performed by an Oncologist Gynecologist or an Oncologist Surgeon because inadequate surgery performed by another specialist has been reported in 75% of cases. In regards to surgery it is recommended to perform total omentectomy since subclinic metastasis have been documented in 10-30% of all cases, and systematic limphadenectomy, necessary to be able to obtain an adequate surgical staging. Fertility-sparing surgery will be performed in certain cases, the procedure should include a detailed inspection of the contralateral ovary and also negative for malignancy omentum and ovary biopsy. Until now, laparoscopy for diagnostic-staging surgery is not well known as a recommended method. The recommended chemotherapy is based on platin and taxanes for 6 cycles, except in Stage IA, IB and grade 1, which have a good prognosis. In advanced stages, primary cytoreduction is recommended as initial treatment. Minimal invasion surgery is not a recommended procedure for the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer. Radiotherapy can be used to palliate symptoms. Follow up of the patients every 2-4 months for 2 years, every 3-6 months for 3 years and anually after the 5th year is recommended. Evaluation of quality of life of the patient must be done periodically. CONCLUSIONS: In the present, there is not a standardized screening method. Diagnosis in early stages means a better survival. Standardized treatment includes primary surgery with the objective to perform an optimal cytoreduction followed by chemotherapy Treatment must be individualized according to each patient. Radiotherapy can be indicated to palliate symptoms.

[The first Mexican consensus of endometrial cancer. Grupo de Investigación en Cáncer de Ovario y Tumores Ginecológicos de México]. / Primer consenso Mexicano de cancer de endometrio.

INTRODUCTION: Endometrial cancer (EC) is the second most common gynecologic malignancy worldwide in the peri and postmenopausal period. Most often for the endometrioid variety. In early clinical stages long-term survival is greater than 80%, while in advanced stages it is less than 50%. In our country there is not a standard management between institutions. GICOM collaborative group under the auspice of different institutions have made the following consensus in order to make recommendations for the management of patients with this type of neoplasm. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The following recommendations were made by independent professionals in the field of Gynecologic Oncology, questions and statements were based on a comprehensive and systematic review of literature. It took place in the context of a meeting of four days in which a debate was held. These statements are the conclusions reached by agreement of the participant members. RESULTS: Screening should be performed women at high risk (diabetics, family history of inherited colon cancer, Lynch S. type II). Endometrial thickness in postmenopausal patients is best evaluated by transvaginal US, a thickness greater than or equal to 5 mm must be evaluated. Women taking tamoxifen should be monitored using this method. Abnormal bleeding in the usual main symptom, all post menopausal women with vaginal bleeding should be evaluated. Diagnosis is made by histerescopy-guided biopsy. Magnetic resonance is the best image method as preoperative evaluation. Frozen section evaluates histologic grade, myometrial invasion, cervical and adnexal involvement. Total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo oophorectomy, pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy should be performed except in endometrial histology grades 1 and 2, less than 50% invasion of the myometrium without evidence of disease out of the uterus. Omentectomy should be done in histologies other than endometriod. Surgery should be always performed by a Gynecologic Oncologist or Surgical Oncologist, laparoscopy is an alternative, especially in patients with hypertension and diabetes for being less morbid. Adjuvant treatment after surgery includes radiation therapy to the pelvis, brachytherapy, and chemotherapy. Patients with Stages III and IV should have surgery with intention to achieve optimal cytoreduction because of the impact on survival (51 m vs. 14 m), the treatment of recurrence can be with surgery depending on the pattern of relapse, systemic chemotherapy or hormonal therapy. Follow-up of patients is basically clinical in a regular basis. CONCLUSIONS: Screening programme is only for high risk patients. Multidisciplinary treatment impacts on survival and local control of the disease, including surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, hormonal treatment is reserved to selected cases of recurrence. This is the first attempt of a Mexican Collaborative Group in Gynecology to give recommendations is a special type of neoplasm.

Hepatocellular carcinoma: epidemiological profile from a cohort of federal employees in Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has become a frequent type of cancer in Mexico. At the present time it represents the 19th cause of death in the population. OBJECTIVE: To recognize the epidemiological profile and the treatment results in a cohort of federal employees with HCC. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analyzed 47 consecutive cases with HCC diagnosis from January 2004 till December 2007. Twenty four demographic data, tumor staging, clinical, and biochemical variables were analyzed to identify parameters predicting survival by computing Kaplan-Mier and Mantel-Cox survival curves. RESULTS: Patient reference increased 5% each year. The mean age was 60.4 years, 63.8% female sex, and 72.3% had cirrhosis, 44.7% had Hepatitis C infection. Most patients presented with advanced disease: 55.3% were AJCC stage 3 and 21.3% stage 4, 51.1% were BCLC class D. Mean tumor size was 8.09 cm. Median survival time from diagnosis was 122 days. Patients that did not receive treatment had a median survival of 70 days; the longest survival of patients was of those that received transarterial chemoembolization with a median of 707 days, followed by surgery with 683 days. Univariate analysis showed survival was associated to MELD score, AJCC and BCLC staging, creatinine level and ascites. Multivariate analysis showed tumor differentiation, AJCC staging and the choice of treatment to be related to the risk of death. CONCLUSION: An increase in the referral of HCC was demonstrated. Most patients had cirrhosis and HCV infection. Due to advance disease staging, TACE was the treatment that offered longest survival.