Testing a rehabilitation program for Danish women with carcinoma in situ of the breast

Background: Women treated for carcinoma in situ of the breast (DCIS) report unmet rehabilitations needs. Aim: The aim of this intervention study was to examine the feasibility of a rehabilitation program and the possible impact on physical and psychological outcomes. Method: The intervention consisted of physical training, psychological support, and psychoeducation. Findings: 46 women were consecutively included and allocated to intervention (15) or control group (31) according to their home address. The program fulfilled to a high extent the participants need of physical training and psychological support. In the intervention group we saw a trend towards a higher decrease in pain scores and a higher increase in psychological well-being. The intervention was evaluated as sufficient by 83% of the participants. Conclusion: A tailored rehabilitation program to women with DCIS is feasible and can meet their rehabilitations needs. An extended rehabilitation program should foremost be offered to women with mastektomi.