Abstract Background: Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast and regional lymph nodes. For MBC, treatment goals are typically controlling disease progression and maintaining quality of life (QoL). However, disease-related symptoms and treatment-related side effects often impair QoL and may result in decreased treatment adherence. Treatment-related side effects are among the leading reasons patients with MBC discontinue recommended therapy. There is an urgent need for evidence-based tools that inform and empower patients to effectively manage symptoms and treatment-related side effects, optimize their QoL, and facilitate informed patient-provider communication. Methods: We used a qualitative stakeholder-informed approach with literature review and iterative resource creation to identify gaps in patient education, symptom management, and shared decision-making in MBC. This review informed the IRB-approved protocol and discussion guide for semi-structured interviews held with US individuals living with MBC (n=9; from rural and urban areas and diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds (Asian, Black, White—Hispanic and non-Hispanic))and the healthcare providers (HCPs) who treat them (n=4). Interview findings guided the co-creation of a printed symptom management resource, Your Guide to Managing Symptoms from Metastatic Breast Cancer Treatment, focused on the topics participants identified as most needed. The same participants reviewed the Guide for understandability, clarity, and usability. The Guide underwent medical review for accuracy and alignment with clinical guidelines and received endorsement by the Academy of Oncology Nurse 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS1-03-29.
Medina et al. (Tue,) studied this question.