From Disease to Survivorship: Challenges and Contributions of Rehabilitation Nursing in Breast Cancer

Advances in the early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer have contributed to increased survival among women, making survivorship an important dimension of the cancer journey. After completion of treatment, physical, psychological, social, and occupational challenges may persist, including functional limitations, fatigue, fear of recurrence, changes in body image and sexuality, difficulties returning to work, and the need to redefine life goals. This communication aims to reflect on the main challenges of the transition to survivorship after breast cancer and on the contribution of rehabilitation nursing to promoting functionality, autonomy, and quality of life. Available evidence supports a multidisciplinary, person-centred approach focused on the early identification of needs, management of late treatment effects, promotion of physical activity, and social participation. In this context, the Rehabilitation Nursing Specialist can play an important role through functional assessment, health education, promotion of self-care, prevention and management of complications, and coordination with the multidisciplinary team. Rehabilitation therefore represents an important component of survivorship care, contributing not only to functional recovery but also to adaptation to life after treatment and the resumption of personal, family, social, and occupational goals.