Multimorbidity and Breast Cancer

Objectives To examine the significance of multimorbidity in breast cancer survivors, to explore multimorbidity in treatment decisions, and survivorship, and to consider multimorbidity assessment in clinical practice. Data Sources Literature review; clinical practice guidelines. Conclusion Multimorbidity influences treatment decisions. Breast cancer survivors report greater multimorbidity compared with other cancer survivors. Multimorbidity increases with age; there may be racial and ethnic differences. Multimorbidity is associated with symptom burden, functional decline, low adherence to surveillance, and early retirement. Implications for Nursing Practice Clinical practice guidelines do not refer to multimorbidity and patient outcomes. Comprehensive geriatric assessment combined with survivorship care plan may be considered.