THE PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPACTS OF BREAST CANCER IN YOUNG ADULT WOMEN: AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer in young adult women (diagnosed before age 40) constitutes a public health concern with specific psychosocial impacts more intense than those observed in older patients, encompassing dimensions of fertility, body image, sexuality, and mental health. Objective: To analyze available scientific evidence on psychosocial impacts of breast cancer in young adult women, identifying interventions with demonstrated efficacy. PICO question: In young adult women with breast cancer (P), what psychosocial impacts (O) are documented, and which interventions (I) demonstrate efficacy? Methods: Integrative literature review in PubMed/MEDLINE and VHL (including LILACS), covering publications from the last five years (2021–2026), conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Results: Twenty-five studies were included. Young women with breast cancer present significantly more intense psychosocial impacts than older patients, including, compromised reproductive function, changes in body image and sexual life, and high rates of anxiety and  depression persisting beyond treatment. Mindfulness-integrated cognitive behavioral therapy (MICBT/MBCT), couple-based oncofertility counseling, art therapy, and digital support demonstrated efficacy. Conclusion: Comprehensive care requires early multidisciplinary approaches addressing the specific needs of young women.