Poster Presentation Joint 2016 COSA and ANZBCTG Annual Scientific Meeting

Background: Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is one of the most distressing side effect for patients. Scalp cooling is an effective method for preventing chemotherapy-induced alopecia, and is widely used in the UK and Europe. Aim: To determine the efficacy and tolerability of scalp cooling in patients with early breast cancer receiving chemotherapy at the Cabrini Brighton Day Oncology Service. A secondary aim was evaluate patient wellbeing and quality of life. Method: This was an open label non-randomised cohort study. A series of self-report questionnaires including, hair loss, quality of life measures, a demographic and registration questionnaire, and a range of questions about expectation, satisfaction and aspects of most benefit (post study questionnaire) of the scalp cooling procedure were administered at multiple time points. Results: A total of 34 patients completed the pre-trial evaluation - 24 patients went on to complete the scalp cooling trial - 5 patients discontinued due to intolerability - 5 patients decided not to commence the trial Self Reported Hair Loss Results: -12% had no hair loss - 23% had minimal hair loss - 65% had moderate hair loss There were no patients whom experienced total hair loss 100% patients that completed the trial were happy with the end result, describing being able to keep their hair, (even if only partially) as a great result. Side effects were minimal and all patients would recommend the trial to other patients. Conclusion: Results from the evaluation of the trial indicated a positive response, with excellent feedback from patients. As a result, scalp cooling has now become standard practice at both Cabrini Day Oncology units for all patients eligible to utilise this technology.