A prospective study to assess the quality of life (QOL) in breast cancer patients and factors affecting quality of life

Introduction

Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy among women globally, with an incidence rate of 11.7 %, surpassing lung cancer as the most frequently diagnosed cancer. In India, incidence rates begin to increase in the early thirties, peaking between the ages of 50 and 64. Historically, the female population has harbored significant fear towards this particular cancer due to the social stigma associated with the diagnosis. It not only poses a challenge to their self-image but also affects their sexual function, consequently having a negative impact on their psychological well-being. Recent advancements in treatment delivery techniques have decreased breast cancer mortality and enhanced disease-free survival rates. However, ensuring a good quality of life (QOL) remains a challenge. This study was conducted to assess the QOL of breast cancer patients and the factors influencing it.

Materials

Patients with histopathological proven malignancy of breast carcinoma aged above 18 years who were registered in our radiotherapy department were included in this cross-sectional study. Patient related, disease related and treatment related parameters were noted. QOL survey instruments used were EORTC-QLQ-C30 version 3.0, EORTC-QLQ-BR23.

Results

A total of 160 patients registered in our department from November 2019 to November 2022 were included in this study. The young breast (<45 years) cancer patients showed comparable QOL scores with older patients on most symptomatic and functional scales. The patients with an advanced disease had lowest scores on all functional scales but was not statistically significant. Breast conserving surgery (BCS) correlated very well with better functioning scores in our study though it did not achieve statistical significance. Patients undergoing BCS seemed more confident about their future prospectives and had better sexual enjoyment score. People living in urban area scored higher in both scales.

Conclusion

This study indicates that QOL of breast cancer patients is closely linked to clinical and sociodemographic factors. Providing financial and psychological support to patients diagnosed with breast cancer may further enhance their QOL.