Psychosocial implications of adjuvant chemotherapy. A two-year follow-up

Abstract

Thirty-five women, who had received adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery for Stage II breast carcinoma, were interviewed approximately 21 months after treatment ended. Patients were asked to describe any continuing psychosocial effects of adjuvant chemotherapy in five life areas. All patients had responded to similar interviews 2 1/2 years earlier, while they were receiving chemotherapy. A comparison of first and second interview ratings for disease-free patients indicated that significant improvements in quality of life were reported in four of the five life areas. However, patients did report some continuing disruption in general activity level. Forty-four percent of the patients reported long-term disruption in at least one area, and 56% described continuing physical problems related to chemotherapy. When asked what they would suggest to help other patients adjust to receiving adjuvant chemotherapy, over 50% of the respondents recommended "staying busy" and "getting information." The implications of these findings are discussed.