Breast cancer patients´knowledge: Results of EORTC QLQ30, QLQ-INFO25 and HADS

Background: This study aimed to assess breast cancer awareness among
patients undergoing active treatment for breast cancer at Day Hospital,
assess their quality of life (QoL), and explore the association between
minor knowledge of the disease and higher levels of anxiety. Methods: This
prospective observational study included patients with breast cancer
undergoing active treatment at the Instituto Português de Oncologia
Coimbra. The EORTC QLQ-C30, QLQ-INFO25, and Anxiety and Depression Scale
(HADS) were completed, and demographic and clinical data were collected
and processed using SPSS. Results: In total, 188 patients with breast
cancer were included. A vast majority had a positive perception of their
QoL, with a higher average value compared to “cognitive functioning”
(X=77.22±22.53), “social functioning” (76.86±25.41), and “physical
functioning” (75.67±17.24). Regarding the information received, an overall
“score” below the “cut-off line” (47.96±14.40) was observed. When
evaluating “satisfaction” in isolation, the average value for
“satisfaction with the information received” was 53.55±23.99, and patients
perceived that the information received was beneficial to them
(67.38±23.87) and did not wish to have received less information
(99.47±7.29). With decreased functionality, higher levels of depression
and anxiety were observed (p<0.0001). Regarding “information
related to illness and anxiety/depression”, it was noted that as
satisfaction with information decreased, patients tended to have higher
levels of anxiety/depression (p<0.013). Conclusions: It is
necessary to create dedicated spaces for information and clinical
clarification, with regular assessments of patients’ perceptions. The
information provided must be reinforced through written or digital
support, or brochures.