The BCOS study (Breast Cancer Offspring Study) is an Investigator Initiated Research (IIR) program designed by Prof Arlene Chan to investigate the needs of children whose mother had been given a diagnosis of breast cancer after she saw many of her patients were concerned about the effects of their breast cancer experience on their children.

Breast Cancer Accounts for 24% of female cancers, with approximately one quarter of women likely to have offspring aged less than 25 years. Recent publications demonstrate negative psychosocial well-being in these offspring. We prospectively assessed for psychological distress and unmet needs in offspring of patients.

Eligible offspring aged 14 to 24 years were consented and completed the Kessler-10 questionnaire and offspring cancer needs instrument. Demographic and BC details were obtained.

Our study confirms high levels of psychological distress in offspring of BC patients, with female offspring reporting significantly higher emotional distress and unmet needs. More than 50% of respondents reported unmet needs in areas that can potentially be supported, including greater information provision, improving practical issues, and enabling sufficient recreational time.