Quality of Life Among Breast and Colon Cancer Patients Before and After First-Cycle Chemotherapy

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to compare the functioning, symptoms, and quality of life (QoL) of patients with breast or colon cancer before and after their first-cycle (FC) chemotherapy.

Design: One-group pretest/posttest design.

Method: The study utilized the standardized Arabic-translated Quality of Life Questionnaire Version 3 from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer in measuring the functioning, symptoms, and QoL of 120 Saudi patients diagnosed with breast or colon cancer. Dependent t test was used in analyzing the presence of significant differences in mean scores before and after chemotherapy with periods ranging from 14 days to 21 days following the treatment protocol.

Results: The findings revealed significant differences in the functioning, symptoms, and QoL among patients with breast or colon cancer before and after FC chemotherapy (p < .001). Baseline scores showed higher physical, role, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning; lesser symptoms; lower financial difficulties; and better overall global health status compared to post-FC chemotherapy.

Conclusion: Assessing the QoL of patients with breast or colon cancer undergoing FC chemotherapy is essential to establish a holistic care plan in supporting and alleviating the unfavorable effects of chemotherapy and implement patient-centered interventions that aid in the enhancement of their overall QoL.

Keywords: Saudi Arabia; breast cancer; chemotherapy; colon cancer; quality of life.