Research News: Risks of Complications from Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer

Silvia: Women who undergo chemotherapy for breast cancer need to be aware that the drugs they receive may cause serious adverse effects, and that these adverse effects could require emergency care or hospitalization. The possible risks of chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, blood clots, anemia, low white blood cell counts, and serious infections. A new study sponsored by AHRQ suggests women 63 years of age or younger who receive chemotherapy for breast cancer may experience more hospitalizations or emergency room visits for these chemotherapy-related side effects than previously estimated. AHRQ Director Doctor Carolyn Clancy:

Dr. Clancy: It is important to know the impact of interventions such as chemotherapy so patients can make informed decisions about the risks and benefits of their treatment options.

Silvia: The researchers, led by Doctor Michael J. Hassett of Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, also found that women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer had annual medical expenditures that averaged $3200 more for hospitalizations, and $17,000 more for out-patient care, compared to women who did not receive chemotherapy. And women who experienced serious adverse effects of chemotherapy had annual health care expenditures that averaged $13,000 more for inpatient care, $16,000 more for outpatient care, and $1,900 more for prescription drugs, compared to women who did not experience serious side effects of chemotherapy. The full study is published in the August 16th issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.