Many women with advanced breast cancer in Ireland are not receiving the emotional support that they need, new research suggests.

According to the preliminary findings of a study of over 500 women with advanced breast cancer, which have been released by the Irish Cancer Society (ICS), there appears to be ‘significant gaps in support' for these patients.

The study was carried out between February 2013 and September 2015 and featured women from the country's eight national cancer care centres. Among these, almost one in three had been living with breast cancer for more than 10 years.

Overall, patients rated their quality of life as generally good, however a number of issues came up, such as financial concerns, transport difficulties to and from medical appointments, fear and uncertainty about future health and the need for more emotional support.

In fact, the study found that three-quarters of patients relied on their oncologist as their main source of healthcare support, despite the fact that these professionals may not be the best person to offer support.

One study participant noted that her diagnosis is terminal, which makes her feel very afraid and insecure.

"Yet there is no designated person to contact when in need of a chat, reassurance or information regarding symptoms," she noted.

The study authors believe that the findings point to the need for dedicated specialist nurses in advanced breast cancer care.

"This national study highlights the significant number of patients who are living well, often for 10 years or more, with metastatic breast cancer in Ireland. They represent a group who would greatly benefit from a specialist nurse in advanced breast cancer to help these patients navigate their illness," commented one of the study's lead authors, consultant medical oncologist, Prof Seamus O'Reilly.

To help meet some of these needs, the ICS extended its Living Life Programme during 2015. This eight-week programme provides emotional and psychological support to patients who have been diagnosed with a secondary cancer (i.e. if breast cancer spreads to another part of the body, it is considered secondary breast cancer).

Commenting on these preliminary findings, the ICS's head of research, Dr Robert O'Connor, noted that while treatment options have improved in recent years, ‘significant needs remain for the holistic management of the patient too, in particular focusing on improving communications with cancer patients at appropriate times during and after their treatment journey'.

If you would like to speak to someone about cancer, call the ICS's Cancer Nurseline on 1800 200 700. This is staffed by qualified cancer nurses who can offer information and support. Calls are free of charge.

The study was led by Prof O'Reilly and Dr Jodie Battley of University College Cork, and the findings were presented at the recent International Consensus Conference for Advanced Breast Cancer in Portugal.