Effect of peri-operative chemotherapy on the quality of life of patients with early breast cancer.
Since chemotherapy is assumed to have a negative impact on quality of life, the impact of peri-operative chemotherapy on physical, psychological and social well-being and on the activity level of patients with early stage breast cancer was investigated. 24 women received peri-operative chemotherapy and 29 did not. They were interviewed 2 months and at a mean of 12 months post-surgery. Although the treated group reported more fatigue and considered hair loss a severe side-effect, no differences were found in overall physical and physiological well-being, perceived social interaction and activity level at 2 months. 1 year after surgery no differences were found between the two groups. Although no substantial effects of peri-operative chemotherapy on quality of life were demonstrated, patients almost unanimously considered peri-operative chemotherapy the most burdensome aspect of the treatment because of alopecia.
Kiebert
G M
GM
Medical Decision Making/Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Leiden, The Netherlands.
Hanneke
J
J
de Haes
C J
CJ
Kievit
J
J
van de Velde
C J
CJ
D000328:Adult; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology / Q000601:surgery; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007430:Intraoperative Care; D008875:Middle Aged; D011788:Quality of Life