Abstract PS5-04-26: Tailored Support for Young Women with Breast Cancer: Survey-Informed Program Development and Peer-Based Intervention

Abstract Background: Low self-esteem and worse body image are common psychosocial challenges among young women with breast cancer. These issues are often exacerbated by treatment-related changes in physical appearance, such as alopecia, surgical scars, and weight fluctuations, which can impact identity, social interactions, sexual health, and overall QoL. Younger patients face additional challenges in maintaining peer and partner relationships, since treatment during young adulthood can feel isolating and disrupt a sense of normalcy. Emerging evidence supports integrating aesthetic and wellness-based therapies to improve body image and self-esteem during and after treatment among breast cancer survivors. Method: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s (MSKCC) Young Women with Breast Cancer Program (YWBCP) launched in 2023 to address the unique needs of women diagnosed at age 45 or younger. To inform program development, YWBCP conducted online surveys at intake (n=1195) and six months into treatment (n=402). Surveys assessed psychological well-being, sexual health, body image, and preferences for psychosocial services. Paired responses were analyzed to evaluate changes over time and identify evolving patient needs. Survey findings also guided the design of a targeted wellness intervention. Results: Paired survey data (n=328) revealed that 46% (n=147) of patients reported feeling less positive about their bodies six months after diagnosis, while 50% (n=161) expressed reduced appreciation for their body’s uniqueness. In response to the statement “I act as though I like my body,” 36% (n=115) reported a decline from baseline to six months. Patients’ responses shows that interest in sexual activity decreased (34%; n=107) more than increased (24%; n=75) over time. 55% (n=169) reported a decline in sexual satisfaction. At intake, patients most frequently prioritized individual therapy (23%, n=326), support groups (21%, n=301), and family support (19%, n=265). By six months, these preferences remained relatively consistent, with individual therapy (28%, n=86) and support groups (19%, n=59) still ranking highest, followed by increased interest in educational programs (14%, n=45). In response to survey findings, MSKCC hosted an in-person wellness and beauty event on June 27, 2025. The event featured therapeutic beauty services, educational workshops, group wellness activities, and a facilitated lunch with social work, fertility, sexual health and Integrative Medicine clinicians. Qualitative feedback was overwhelmingly positive. One participant shared, “The event was a deeply inspiring and empowering experience. It created a safe, supportive space for us women to connect with one another. I think it was a fantastic way to focus on self-care, confidence, and community.” Another noted, “Being surrounded by other young women going through the same thing reminded me I’m not alone.” A third reflected, “It made something that can feel extremely isolating a lot less lonely. I left the day with a bunch of new connections that can help guide and support me through my treatment.” She added, “The workshops helped me feel a lot more comfortable with the challenges I’m facing and more normal for what I’m going through.” Many attendees reported a strengthened sense of community, self-confidence, and body image. Quantitative evaluation is ongoing and will be available to present in December at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. Conclusion: Survey data and patient feedback highlight the need for age-specific psychosocial programming that addresses evolving concerns around identity, body image, and emotional support. Integrating beauty and wellness services into psychosocial care may offer a meaningful way to enhance self-esteem, reduce isolation, and increase engagement with hospital-based supportive services. Citation Format: S. Goldfarb, C. Chang, G. Mary, T. Nicolas, M. Ahmed, A. Jamner. Tailored Support for Young Women with Breast Cancer: Survey-Informed Program Development and Peer-Based Intervention [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS5-04-26.