Understanding HER2+ Breast Cancer
Insights from the ASKHER2 European Survey
HER2+: Human Epidermal Growth Receptor 2 positive
Understanding Risk and Decision-Making
In the landscape of HER2+ breast cancer, every patient's story is unique. Through their experiences, we explore the challenges and hopes that accompany this diagnosis. From initial uncertainty to crucial treatment decisions, every step is a testament to resilience and determination.
These are the central questions of the ASKHER2 study.
- How do patients perceive their risk of recurrence?
- How involved do they feel in treatment decisions?
We found that many patients want to be better informed and actively involved in their care, but often face communication barriers with their healthcare providers.
Methodological overview
Study Design
Cross-sectional, multi-national, non-interventional, direct-to-patient survey.
Countries
France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Sweden.
Recruitment
Multi-modal approach including patient advocacy groups and patient panels.
Duration
July 22, 2022 - March 1, 2023.
Population
Women aged 18+ with HER2+ breast cancer.
Sample Size
622 patients.
Critical findings
Patient Involvement
96,8% of patients desired to be involved in treatment decisions.
Risk Awareness
20,9% were unaware of their personal risk of recurrence.
Communication
Only 30,4% perceived the communication to be clear with their healthcare providers.
Patients show a high willingness to accept further additional interventions to reduce the risk of recurrence.
When thinking about the risk of cancer recurrence,
patients most commonly felt worried, frightened or sad.
Patient characteristics
To decrease their risk of cancer recurrence, 76,9% of patients were open to modifying their dietary habits, 74,2% were willing to exercise more frequently, and 64,5% were open to taking additional treatments for breast cancer.
Patient interactions with Healthcare Professionals and Decision-making
Preferred communication style
Understanding how patients want to communicate is key to improving healthcare interactions.
Effective communication is crucial in managing patient expectations and improving treatment adherence.
Conclusions
Involvement
Healthcare providers should involve patients with early and metastatic HER2+
breast cancer in treatment decisions.
Communication
Open communication from the start of treatment is essential to build trust.
Lifestyle
Women are willing to adopt healthier lifestyles and additional interventions to improve care and reduce recurrence risk.
Participation
Enhancing patient communication can increase participation in shared decision-making and adherence to interventions.
Monitoring
Monitoring patient perception of recurrence risk and decision-making in HER2+ early breast cancer management is necessary.
Optimization
Optimizing patient-physician communication can be achieved through communication skills training for physicians, simple explanations, and better coordination among multidisciplinary teams.
The ASKHER2 study served as a space where patients could share their concerns and desires, revealing what truly matters in their treatment journey.
Videos
Explore the findings
Access the complete scientific publication for detailed insights and data.
Publication of the insights from the ASKHER2 European survey
By addressing patient concerns, we can make a profound impact on the quality of life of HER2+ breast cancer patients.
Lambertini, M., Jackisch, C., Trédan, O., Vidal, M., Fontes-Sousa, M., Valachis, A., D'Antona, R., Ruz, M., Krone, E., Brice, M., Berjonneau, E., Matos, S., Dialla, O., & Guéroult-Accolas, L. (2025). Patient perception on risk of recurrence and decision-making in the management of HER2-positive early breast cancer: Insights from the ASKHER2 European survey. Breast (Edinburgh, Scotland), 81, 104456. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.breast.2025.104456