Assessing the Impact of Mastectomy on the Quality of Life among Cancer Survivors: A Hospital-based Cross-sectional Study in Mysuru

Abstract

Introduction: While mastectomy a crucial procedure in preventing and treating breast cancer is essential, it significantly impacts the emotional well-being, dignity, and overall quality of life (QoL) of survivors. Dealing with the physical challenges of mastectomy is emotionally demanding as it requires adapting to the changes in one's body following breast cancer.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the impact of mastectomy on the QoL among cancer survivors.

Subjects and methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out in the outpatient departments of oncology at two tertiary care hospitals in Mysuru. Women diagnosed with breast cancer in the year 2021-2022 and who have undergone mastectomy of at least one breast were chosen for the study. The QoL was measured by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer - C-30 and BR (breast specific) - 23 modules.

Results: Emotional, physical, social, and cognitive functioning scores assigned a maximum number of participants in the average to good QoL category. The survivors scored lower in sexual enjoyment (10.758 ± 29.73), sexual functioning (32.024 ± 45.35), future perspective (57.419 ± 38.773), and body image (57.309 ± 32.51) and reported lower QoL which was also related to their menstruation status and age. However, a small group of participants had a positive body image despite their transformed bodies. Symptoms such as fatigue (80.43 ± 24.84), nausea/vomiting (116.39 ± 64.7), insomnia (73.43 ± 38.85), and financial difficulties (65.28 ± 45.46) negatively affected the QoL. The study also highlighted that poor QoL was associated with hair loss (85.48 ± 34.60), side effects of systemic therapy (42.08 ± 22.28), arm symptoms (83.16 ± 23.67), and breast symptoms (20.71 ± 30.45).

Conclusion: Survivors face physical and psychological changes that significantly impact their QoL. QoL assessments offer insights into the impact of the disease during and after treatment.

Keywords: Breast cancer; cancer survivors; functional scales; mastectomy; quality of life; symptoms scale.