A SOUTHAMPTON study has revealed the often inadequate care secondary breast cancer patients across the UK receive.

In the first in-depth study of its kind, the University of Southampton has found that women living with the disease are overlooked and receiving poor care.

Looking at the experiences of ten women, the research discovered that their lives were dominated by trying to manage the disease and treatment, yet had little support.

There are around 36,000 women who are now estimated to be living with advanced disease in the country which can be controlled but cannot be cured.

Dr Liz Reed, co-author, said: “We found very few of the women had any access to formal support. There have been great strides in clinical treatment but with little or no support, these patients are faced with a constant cycle of illness, treatment and recovery and particularly for those with more aggressive disease, there was little let-up.

“They had an uphill struggle in trying to adapt to constant change whilst trying to manage pain in the present and a future reduced life expectancy.”

The study, funded by Breast Cancer Campaign, also revealed that patients seemed unsure and unclear as to how to re-enter the healthcare system in contrast to the clear path at the point of primary breast cancer diagnosis.

Even once seen, the study found there was no structured pathway to help ensure they received appropriate care and support.