Quality of life in women with breast cancer after treatment

Abstract

Relevance: Breast cancer (ВС) is one of the most common oncological diseases among women. Despite advances in treatment methods, factors affecting patients’ quality of life and psy-cho-emotional state remain insufficiently studied. In the post-treatment period, changes in physical, emotional, sexual, and social well-being have a significant impact on patients’ quality of life (QoL).
The study aimed to assess the quality of life of women treated for breast cancer based on the EORTC QLQ-BR23 questionnaire.
Methods: Data collection was conducted from January 15, 2024, to January 1, 2025, at the Medical Center of West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University (Aktobe, Kazakhstan) using the EORTC QLQ-BR23 questionnaire. A total of 103 women participated in the study. The EORTC QLQ-BR23 is a standardized tool for assessing the QoL in ВС.
Results: According to the study, 69.9% of patients rated their health status as satisfactory, while 30.1% reported a significant decline in the QoL (p=0.000). Major concerns included physical functioning and body image satisfaction (p=0.000), deterioration of sexual function (p=0.000), and uncertainty about the future (p=0.000). Additionally, systemic therapy side effects (p=0.000), breast symptoms (p=0.000), and hair loss (p=0.000) had a negative impact on the QoL.
Conclusion: The study results reaffirm the relevance of this issue and underscore the im-portance of comprehensive support measures in enhancing the QoL for ВС survivors. Psychological support, rehabilitation programs, and measures to reduce treatment side effects may contribute to better patient social adaptation. The findings provide a foundation for further improvement of medical and psychological support for ВС patients.