Abstract PS1-04-12: Access to Psychological Support and Psychotherapy for Women with Advanced Breast Cancer in Nigeria. A National Study

Abstract Background: Advanced breast cancer (ABC) affects patients' psychological well-being and quality of life, with a higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Despite evidence underscoring the importance of psychological support and psychotherapy in improving patients' well-being, access to these services remains unknown in this population. This study examined access to psychological support and psychotherapy for patients with ABC in Nigeria. Methods: Of the (N = 1,389) cancer patients recruited in the national study, (n = 208) patients with ABC (203 females and five males; mean age = 50.53 years, SD = 11.36) were included in this study. Participants completed a questionnaire evaluating their access to psychological support. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS. Results: The findings showed that 75.5% of participants received their cancer diagnosis in a comforting and humane manner, while 53.8% were offered psychological counseling immediately after diagnosis. However, only 13.5% received counseling from a qualified clinical psychologist on the day of diagnosis. Cancer diagnosis had a significant psychological impact on 83.7% of participants, yet only 44.2% received psychological support during treatment, leaving 55.8% without access. Notably, 65.9% expressed a need for psychological support and psychotherapy during their treatment, and 78.8% indicated a willingness to utilize such services if available. Conclusions: The study reveals critical gaps in the availability and accessibility of psychological support and psychotherapy for patients with ABC. Establishing psycho-oncology clinics and recruiting clinical psychologists to provide psychotherapy for patients could help bridge this gap and enhance mental well-being. Citation Format: R. C. Chidebe, S. Ipiankama, M. C. Onyedibe, I. I. Okoye, S. Aruah, O. Asogwa, O. Ahmadu, A. Adewumi, L. Eriba, D. Esiaka, B. Olusegun, M. Nandul, I. Zubairu, N. Mampak, K. Omenukor, D. Obi, E. Ugwu, H. Dogo, C. Okwuonu, J. Chukwuorji. Access to Psychological Support and Psychotherapy for Women with Advanced Breast Cancer in Nigeria. A National Study [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 PS1-04-12.