Localized Breast Carcinoma

This clinical trial studies whether a navigation program improves survivorship support service participation among survivors of breast cancer that has not spread from where it first started (primary site) to other places in the body (non-metastatic). Advances in treatment have caused the number of breast cancer survivors to grow. As this number increases, there are reported unmet supportive care needs in this population, including psychological distress and limitations in physical functioning. To address these needs, many cancer centers offer programming on a variety of topics including psychological services, exercise counseling, and nutrition counseling. Research has shown that while interest in these survivorship programs is high, participation remains low, especially among minority women. Navigation is a healthcare service that is designed to guide a patient through the healthcare system and reduce barriers to timely screening, follow-up, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care. The navigation program in this trial is specifically focused on helping breast cancer survivors schedule and attend survivorship consultation appointments as well as providing additional support to underserved/vulnerable patients. A navigation program may be effective in improving survivorship support service participation among non-metastatic breast cancer survivors.

This phase II trial evaluates manual lymphatic drainage breast massage for reducing treatment-related side effects in women undergoing radiation therapy after breast conserving surgery for breast cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body (localized). Breast conserving surgery can be an effective treatment option for early stage breast cancer, but it can also be associated with side effects including fluid collection in tissues/swelling (lymphedema), pain, reduced quality of life, and poorer body image. Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique used to reduce swelling. It may be a safe and effective way to reduce treatment-related side effects in women receiving radiation therapy after surgery for localized breast cancer.

This phase II trial tests the safety and effectiveness of a dietary supplement called resistant potato starch for reducing musculoskeletal symptoms in patients with stage 0-III breast cancer or who are at high risk for breast cancer and are planning to receive treatment with an aromatase inhibitor. Aromatase inhibitors are a type of drug commonly used for the treatment or prevention of breast cancer. Many people who receive aromatase inhibitors experience musculoskeletal symptoms (symptoms relating to bones and muscles, such as joint pain or stiffness). Research has shown there may be an association between reduced levels of beneficial gut bacteria and the development of aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal symptoms. Resistant potato starch is a plant-based low-digestible carbohydrate that has the potential to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Taking resistant potato starch while receiving aromatase inhibitor therapy may reduce musculoskeletal symptoms in patients with stage 0-III breast cancer or individuals at high risk of developing breast cancer.