Quality of Life in Patients With Breast Cancer: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background. Breast cancer is the most common oncological disease among women worldwide, significantly affecting patients’ physical, emotional, and social well-being. Although treatment methods have advanced, they often cause side effects that negatively impact quality of life.

Aim. To assess the quality of life in women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Methods. The study included 32 female breast cancer patients treated at the National Cancer Institute. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire aimed at evaluating various aspects of the participants’ quality of life and SF-36 questionnaire.

Results. The highest scores were given to physical activity (72.2 points) and pain and social functioning (both 68.7 points), while the lowest scores were observed in limitations due to physical health problems (43 points) and emo­tional disturbances (48.9 points). Most women reported experiencing a sense of vitality and fullness of life either frequently or occasionally. Only in one domain—social functioning—were there no differences between the two groups of women. In all other domains, women living with a partner rated their quality of life significantly higher than widowed or never-married women. Physical activity was rated significantly better by women with higher education, whereas vitality, emotional state, and social functioning were evaluated more positively (p < 0.05) by women with lower education.

Conclusions. The emotional well-being and functional limitations of women treated for breast cancer remain signifi­cant challenges following treatment. Despite fatigue and exhaustion, the majority of participants reported maintaining a certain level of energy and a sense of life fulfilment. Emotional and social support from close relatives appears to play a crucial role in improving patients’ overall well-being. The influence of educational background on quali­ty-of-life yielded mixed results, indicating the need for further research to better understand its role in recovery and post-treatment adjustment.

Keywords: breast; cancer; physical activity; energy; fatigue