ABSTRACT
Aims We analyzed the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (COVID-19) on the quality of breast cancer care in certified EUSOMA breast centers. Materials and methods The results of the EUSOMA quality indicators (QIs) were compared, based on pseudonymized individual records, for the periods 1 March 2020 till 30 June 2020 (first COVID19 peak in most countries in Europe) and 1 March 2019 till 30 June 2019. In addition, a questionnaire was sent to the participating Centres for investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the organization and the quality of breast cancer care. Results Forty-five Centers provided data and 31 (67%) responded to the questionnaire. There was a small significant higher tumour (p=0.003) and lymph node (p=0.011) stage at presentation. Comparing QIs (12736 patients) by multivariable analysis showed non-significant differences. Surgery could be performed in a COVID-free zone in 94% of the Centres, COVID testing was performed before surgery in 96% of the Centres and surgical case load was reduced in 55% of the Centres. Modifications of the indications for neoadjuvant endocrine therapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapy were necessary in 23%, 23% and 10% of the Centres;changes in indications for adjuvant endocrine, chemo-, targeted, immune and radiotherapy in 3%, 19%, 3%, 6% and 10%, respectively. Conclusion Quality of breast cancer care was well maintained in EUSOMA breast Centres during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. A small but significantly higher tumour and lymph node stage at presentation was observed.