“People diagnosed should take the time out and talk to multiple specialist and get second opinions.” said Dr. Robinson. A study he conducted shows how the power of communication can influence how fast some patients opt to have surgery without having all the facts.
Dr. Robinson, chair of the communications department at PSU, communicated his findings at a recent colloquium just in time for breast cancer awareness month. Just over a dozen people were in attendance at the Fifth Avenue Cinema where it was held Friday the 9th. Most of whom were graduate students who were there as part of a …show more content…
There are many different ways to treat breast cancer and those who are young need to take into considering other factors at play such as childbearing, genetics, and even the the speed at which the cancer is multiplying.
“Women diagnosed at a young age may opt for a mastectomy over a lumpectomy in order to decreases any chances of recurrence.” Dr. Robinson expressed.
But Dr. Robinson, who has published over 40 book chapters and journal articles, stressed that patients need to be informed by doctors of their options. Beyond the patients informing themselves and being able to make the right decision, research shows correlation between quality of life after treatment and how involved the patient felt in the decision making process.
Those diagnosed with breast cancer feel an extraordinary amount of pressure when they are told this earth shattering news. That pressure is than imposed on the surgeon which feels obligated to make an urgent decision offering surgery without presenting other viable