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664 Dynamic shifts in quality of life for gynecological cancer patients: a cross-sectional analysis of pre- and post-treatment perspectives
  1. Saloni Chadha and
  2. Archana Mishra
  1. Safdarjung Hospital, Delhi, India

Abstract

Introduction/Background Cancer is a major global health concern, with gynecological cancer being a leading cause of illness and death. Survivors of these cancers often experience challenges that impact their quality of life (QoL) especially because treatments may be disfiguring and have a long-term impact on sexual health.

Methodology This study aimed to evaluate the QoL of gynecological cancer patients when they first presented for medical care and 3 months post-treatment. Seventy patients underwent pre- and post-treatment assessments using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - General (FACT-G) questionnaire, gauging physical, social, emotional, and functional well-being. Sociodemographic data was analyzed, and QoL scores were computed per FACT-G guidelines.

Results The majority of the patients were over 60 years old, and the specific types of gynecological cancers included ovarian, cervical, uterine, and vulvar cancer. Pain, a prevalent symptom at presentation, significantly impacted their QoL. There were statistically significant improvements in physical and emotional well-being, as well as reductions in pain and fatigue, however, there was no significant improvement in the social domain or role of functioning. Sexual function worsened significantly. Multivariate analysis showed that younger women and those with a higher level of education had better QoL. Stage and type of cancer had little impact on the general QoL, but patients with earlier stage cancer had better cancer QoL in all domains.

Conclusion In conclusion, gynecological cancers significantly impact patients‘ overall health and QoL. These findings are valuable for tailoring symptom-focused treatments and enhancing the QoL of these patients. The management of cancer pain is a critical issue. Monitoring of multidimensional health problems such as physical, psychological, social, and spiritual health issues is needed from the initial diagnosis to the long term.

Disclosures None

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