Prithpal S Matreja
Gian Sagar Medical College & Hospital, India
Title: Impact of breast cancer on the quality of life of patients and their caregivers
Biography
Biography: Prithpal S Matreja
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer is one of leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide in females. It has been associated with both physical and psychological burden. It also has a profound effect on family and friends leading to psychological strain, social isolation, relationship strain and financial strain apart from added responsibility of taking care of patient. Many studies done have found profound effect on patients as well as caregivers of breast cancer but data from Indian setup is lacking hence this study was designed to study the impact of breast cancer on quality of life of patients as well as caregivers. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on patients and caregivers visiting the oncology department. The study was approved by the IEC of the institute and informed consent was obtained from all the participants. The patients were subjected to Quality of Life Scale/Breast Cancer Patient and World Health Organization-Quality of life-Brief (WHO-QOL Bref) questionnaire. The caregivers were subjected to WHO-QOL Bref questionnaire and Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Results: A total of 50 patients and caregivers were enrolled in the study, the QOL of both the patient and caregivers was compromised and was significantly (p<0.05) higher in patients and caregiver who were diagnosed in the last few months. The QOL scores of both the patient and caregivers improved with passage of time and was significantly higher in patients who were symptom free and leading almost a normal life. Conclusion: To conclude breast cancer not only compromises the patients well being it also takes a toll on the caregivers. With due course of time and treatment, there was significant improvement in quality of life.