Improving outcomeS for Women diagnosed with early breast cancer through adhErence to adjuvant Endocrine Therapy (SWEET): study protocol for a pragmatic randomised control trial of a patient-centred intervention to improve adherence to endocrine therapy in early breast cancer

Abstract Background At least 5 years of adjuvant endocrine therapy substantially reduces risks of recurrence and mortality in oestrogen-receptor positive early breast cancer. However, adherence to endocrine therapy is sub-optimal; poor adherence is associated with higher risks of recurrence and death from breast cancer, worse cancer-specific health-related quality-of-life, and increased healthcare costs. The SWEET randomised control trial aims to evaluate effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the HT n = 1460) complete a baseline questionnaire, and are randomised to the HT variations in breast cancer services nationally; and measuring adherence. This trial has potential to improve quality of life and adherence to endocrine therapy; reducing numbers of recurrences and breast cancer deaths, benefiting women, their families and the health service. Trial registration ISRCTN Number: ISRCTN24852890 registered on 02.08.2023.