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14-07-2023 | Lactation | Breast Oncology

Lactation Education for Surgeons: American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) Survey Demonstrates Strong Member Interest in Expanded Training

Authors: Helen M. Johnson, MD, IBCLC, Mediget Teshome, MD, MPH, FACS, Puneet Singh, MD, CMQ, FACS, Katrina B. Mitchell, MD, IBCLC, FACS

Published in: Annals of Surgical Oncology | Issue 10/2023

Abstract

Background

The availability and extent of breastfeeding-specific surgical training has not been previously described. We aimed to survey breast surgeons on their lactation education and desire for additional knowledge.

Methods

Members of the American Society of Breast Surgeons were invited via email to anonymously complete an electronic survey from 27 October 2021 to 23 January 2022. The survey content included demographic information, sources of lactation education, and desired topics and methods for further training. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.

Results

A total of 2698 surveys were delivered and 542 (20.1%) completed. While nearly all respondents (99%) reported treating lactating patients at least once or twice per year, 78% reported that their training was inadequate. The most frequently cited sources of lactation information were peer-to-peer informal knowledge sharing (50%) and personal experience with breastfeeding (44%). Nearly all respondents (99%) agreed that formal lactation education would benefit breast surgeons. Specific topics of interest included management of patients with complications of lactation (48%), management of lactating patients with a new diagnosis of breast cancer (47%), and counseling patients with pregnancy-associated breast cancer who desire to breastfeed (46%). The most frequently recommended educational formats included presentation at a national conference (60%), evidence-based management guidelines (58%), webinar (55%), and workshop/course (47%).

Conclusion

Breast surgeons self-report minimal formal training in the management of benign and malignant breast disease in lactating patients and strong desire for expanded education. Development of clinical practice guidelines and additional educational content for surgeons should be considered to meet the needs of this patient population.

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Title: Lactation Education for Surgeons: American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) Survey Demonstrates Strong Member Interest in Expanded Training
Authors: Helen M. Johnson, MD, IBCLC
Mediget Teshome, MD, MPH, FACS
Puneet Singh, MD, CMQ, FACS
Katrina B. Mitchell, MD, IBCLC, FACS
Publication date: 14-07-2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Keywords: Lactation
Breast Disease
Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer
Published in: Annals of Surgical Oncology / Issue 10/2023
Print ISSN: 1068-9265
Electronic ISSN: 1534-4681
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-023-13882-w

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Lactation Education for Surgeons: American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) Survey Demonstrates Strong Member Interest in Expanded Training

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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