Breast cancer: Challenges faced by musician survivors

Background: The physical problems that follow recovery from breast cancer treatment can be particularly burdensome to patients who have physically demanding occupations or avocations, such as professional musicians. Methods: In Phase One of this study, a nationwide web-based survey of musicians who are breast cancer survivors was conducted. 321 potential subjects logged onto the Phase One survey, and 182 subjects completed the survey. Quantitative results are based on the 99 subjects who met all inclusion and exclusion criteria. In Phase Two, 38 volunteers from Phase One were interviewed by telephone; transcripts were analyzed using qualitative research methods. Results: Many subjects reported ongoing physical symptoms 1 to 5 years after cancer therapy, including hot flashes (41%), numbness (32%), changes in cognition (31%), skin contractures/tightness (21%), pain (20%) and fatigue (18%). Interviews revealed that most subjects were unprepared for the long-term physical impact of their therapy, that many initially felt isolated and unsupported in their quest for support, and that many found that their reconnection with their music was transformative in their recovery. Conclusions: Breast cancer has a profound impact on the careers of musicians, and the impact may endure well beyond the period of treatment and rehabilitation. Many of these patients found the health care system only partially responsive to their experiences. Our findings provide a basis for further examination of the impact of breast cancer not only on musicians, but also on those in other fields where physical fitness, strength, and stamina are vital to occupational and general well-being.