Management of Breast Cancer Among a Sample of Iraqi Women

Background: The management of breast cancer presents a complex clinical dilemma, particularly in balancing efficacy, quality of life, and patient preferences. The choice between mastectomy, conservative approaches, and neoadjuvant chemotherapy remains unclear. Aim of study: Assessment of management options among a sample of Iraqi breast cancer women. Patients and methods: This prospective cross-sectional study, included 90 patients diagnosed with breast cancer at the Breast Cancer Early Detection Clinic of Al Yarmouk Teaching Hospital. Patient history, examination, and review of signs of regional or distant metastasis, with imaging studies and biopsy confirmation. Patients were followed up until the endpoint of surgical intervention and post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy use. Results: The mean age was 52.5 years. A painless breast mass was the most frequently presenting symptom. Mastectomy was performed in 59 cases (65.6%), whereas breast-conserving surgery was performed in 23 cases (25.6%). Treatment selection was guided by doctor–patient counseling in conjunction with patient preferences. Only eight patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy; seven (7.8%) subsequently underwent mastectomy, while a single patient (1.1%) underwent breast conserving surgery. Conclusions: Multidisciplinary care and patient-centered decision making are needed to effectively navigate the uncertainties and complexities of breast cancer treatment.