Work

Sociodemographic factors and treatment effects on quality of life in locally advanced breast cancer: a cross-sectional study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Purpose: This study aimed to identify key aspects of health-related quality of life in women with locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) and analyse their links to factors and treatment modalities. Method:A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2023 in Ulin Regional Public Hospital, Banjarmasin, Indonesia, involving LABC women whose quality of life (QoL) was assessed using Quality-of-Life Questionnaire Breast Cancer 23.Data were analysed using ANOVA, independent t-tests for parametric data, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests for non-parametric data and significant variables (p < 0.05) included in a final regression model for identifying predictors.Results: Of 100 participants (mean age 50 years), most had low education levels (41%), were unemployed (74%) and had stage IIIB cancer.Body image score was the highest, while systemic therapy side effect was the lowest.Better sexual enjoyment was reported in post-menopausal women (p = 0.043), those with higher education (p = 0.036) and married individuals (p = 0.021).Higher economic status was associated with better sexual enjoyment (p = 0.008) and fewer breast symptoms (p = 0.011); however, economic status was negatively associated with employment status (p = 0.043).Worsening arm symptoms were associated with prolonged illness (p = 0.022).Surgical intervention was associated with higher body image (p = 0.010) and lower systemic side effects (p = 0.023).Traditional medicine was associated with lower arm symptoms (p = 0.026).Economic/occupational status explained 10.5% of sexual functioning scores. Conclusion:Poor QoL in LABC patients overall was associated with low sociodemographic conditions, late presentation and chemotherapy-related side effects.

Source: ecancermedicalscience

DOI: 10.3332/ecancer.2025.1965

Authors: Sasongko Hadi Priyono, Winardi Budiwinata, Budianto Tedjowitono, Effendy, Muhamad Daffa Ibnurasy Pratama

Institution: Lambung Mangkurat University

Language: English

Topic: Cancer survivorship and care

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,226