Psycho-social distress and disease specific treatment affecting quality of life in breast cancer patients: A brief report

Abstract

Health-related quality of life (QOL) in breast cancer patients is very pertinent to assess due to advances in treatment leading to prolonged survival. Nevertheless, psycho-social distress and various treatment modalities used in breast cancer can have both acute and delayed complications which can significantly affect QOL of the patient. The diagnosis of the disease, impairment of body image, alopecia and alteration of femininity are some of the major factors causing psychological distress. Among the treatment related factors, fatigue, insomnia, lymphedema, premature menopause and pain are the prominent factors influencing QOL. Measures should be undertaken to timely diagnose and treat these symptoms. Physical activity such as yoga, tai-chi, aerobics, meditation can enhance QOl and reduce these symptoms. Also psychosocial education is an upcoming treatment which helps to improve overall QOL.