Quality of life in women with breast cancer after treatment

Abstract

Relevance: Breast cancer (BrC) is one of the most common oncological diseases among women. Despite advances in treatment methods, factors affecting patients’ quality of life and psycho-emotional state remain insufficiently studied. In the post-treatment period, changes in physical, emotional, sexual, and social well-being significantly impact patients’ quality of life.

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 quality of life of BrC patients.

Results: According to the study, 69.9% of patients rated their health status satisfactory, while 30.1% reported a significant decline in quality of life (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) negatively impacted quality of life.

Conclusion: The study results reaffirm the relevance of this issue and highlight the importance of comprehensive support measures to improve the quality of life of BrC 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 BrC patients.