Increasing Pain Related Communication Skills to Improve Pain Management in Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients

The goal of this study is to improve the management of pain related to metastatic breast cancer MBC through psycho-social intervention. Although clinical guidelines for the treatment of MBC pain have been issued, under-treatment of pain remains a problem. This study builds upon prior research which has identified poor patient-provider communication as a key barrier to adequate cancer pain management. This study is the first application of a pain skills communication intervention to reduce pain and increase quality of life in MBC patients. MBC patients are being randomly assigned to either a pain knowledge and communication skills training or a nutrition education. To determine the effectiveness of the pain and communication skills intervention, patients receiving this treatment will be compared with those receiving nutrition education on standardized measures of pain, psychological adjustment, and quality of life. Patients participate in four interviews prior to the intervention, post-intervention and at I and 3 month follow-ups. To date, nineteen patients have been recruited. The study results will provide evidence of the efficacy of a pain communication skills intervention in reducing pain and psychological distress, and increasing quality of life in MBC patients.