A Description of the Quality of Life of Breast Cancer Patients Who Have Undergone Modified Radical Mastectomy and Radiotherapy at the General Hospital of Adam Malik Hajj Medan in 2017
Introduction
Breast cancer is one of the most common diseases suffered by women around the world, with approximately 1.7 million new cases diagnosed in 2012. Handling breast cancer often involves surgical procedures such as modified radical mastectomy, which aims to remove cancer tissue and improve the quality of life of the patient. In addition, radiotherapy is also used as additional therapy to minimize the risk of disease recurrence. This study aims to describe the quality of life of breast cancer patients who have undergone both types of therapy at the Adam Malik Hajj General Hospital in Medan in 2017.
The Importance of Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Patients
The quality of life of breast cancer patients is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. It encompasses physical, emotional, and social aspects, which can be significantly impacted by the disease and its treatment. A decline in quality of life can lead to decreased physical function, emotional distress, and social isolation, ultimately affecting the patient's ability to cope with the disease.
Research Methodology
This study uses descriptive observational methods with a cross-sectional study design. Total sampling is applied, involving 20 breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy in the radiotherapy installation of the General Hospital of Hajj Adam Malik. Data was collected between September and October 2017 using the QLQ-C30 Eortc Questionnaire, which is a multidimensional measurement tool to evaluate the quality of life of patients.
Research Results
The results of the analysis showed that 85% of patients experienced a significant decline in life, while 15% had sufficient quality of life. No patients identified have good quality of life after surgery and radiotherapy. These findings show how much the effects of breast cancer and their handling on the daily life of patients, including physical, emotional, and social aspects.
Analysis of the Quality of Life of Patients
The quality of life of breast cancer patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy can be influenced by several factors, including:
Physical Impact Surgical procedures and radiotherapy can cause physical side effects such as pain, fatigue, and changes in the body's appearance. This physical pain often continues even though treatment has been completed, which in turn can reduce the patient's overall quality of life.
Emotional Aspects Cancer diagnosis can cause severe psychological stress, including anxiety and depression. Changes to the body's image after surgery, as well as uncertainty about the future, are an emotional challenge that must be faced by patients. It also contributes to the low quality score of life in this study.
Lack of Social Support Lack of social support can cause patients to feel isolated and more emotionally burdened. Social support from family, friends, and healthcare providers can play a crucial role in improving the quality of life of patients.
Symptom Management Effective symptom management strategies can also play a role in improving the quality of life of patients. Education on how to manage side effects and proper psychosocial support can help patients feel better as a whole.
Conclusion
Through this study, it can be concluded that the quality of life of breast cancer patients who have undergone modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy at the Adam Malik Hajj General Hospital in 2017 is still relatively low. The QLQ-C30 Eortc Questionnaire proved effective as a measure in the assessment of the quality of life of patients. This finding shows the need for a comprehensive approach in handling breast cancer patients, both in terms of medical and psychological, to improve their quality of life after treatment. Efforts to increase social support and education regarding symptom management must also be the main focus to help patients through these difficult times better.
Recommendations
Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:
Healthcare providers should prioritize the assessment and management of symptoms in breast cancer patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy.
Patients should receive education on how to manage side effects and improve their quality of life.
Social support from family, friends, and healthcare providers should be increased to help patients cope with the emotional and physical challenges of breast cancer.
Healthcare providers should consider using the QLQ-C30 Eortc Questionnaire as a tool to assess the quality of life of breast cancer patients.
Limitations of the Study
This study has several limitations, including:
The small sample size of 20 patients.
The study was conducted at a single hospital, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
The study did not control for other factors that may influence the quality of life of breast cancer patients, such as age, education level, and socioeconomic status.
Future Research Directions
Future research should aim to:
Investigate the long-term effects of modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy on the quality of life of breast cancer patients.
Develop and evaluate interventions to improve the quality of life of breast cancer patients, such as symptom management programs and social support groups.
Examine the role of healthcare providers in improving the quality of life of breast cancer patients.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of assessing and improving the quality of life of breast cancer patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy. The findings of this study suggest that healthcare providers should prioritize the assessment and management of symptoms, provide education on how to manage side effects, and increase social support to help patients cope with the emotional and physical challenges of breast cancer.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Quality of Life of Breast Cancer Patients
Q: What is the quality of life of breast cancer patients?
A: The quality of life of breast cancer patients refers to their overall well-being, including physical, emotional, and social aspects. It encompasses their ability to perform daily activities, manage symptoms, and maintain a positive outlook on life.
Q: What are the common symptoms experienced by breast cancer patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy?
A: Common symptoms experienced by breast cancer patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy include pain, fatigue, changes in body appearance, anxiety, depression, and social isolation.
Q: How can healthcare providers improve the quality of life of breast cancer patients?
A: Healthcare providers can improve the quality of life of breast cancer patients by:
Assessing and managing symptoms effectively
Providing education on how to manage side effects
Increasing social support from family, friends, and healthcare providers
Using tools such as the QLQ-C30 Eortc Questionnaire to assess quality of life
Q: What is the role of social support in improving the quality of life of breast cancer patients?
A: Social support from family, friends, and healthcare providers plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life of breast cancer patients. It can help patients cope with the emotional and physical challenges of breast cancer, reduce feelings of isolation, and improve overall well-being.
Q: How can breast cancer patients manage symptoms and improve their quality of life?
A: Breast cancer patients can manage symptoms and improve their quality of life by:
Following a healthy diet and exercise routine
Getting enough rest and sleep
Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and deep breathing
Staying connected with family and friends
Seeking support from healthcare providers and support groups
Q: What are the long-term effects of modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy on the quality of life of breast cancer patients?
A: The long-term effects of modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy on the quality of life of breast cancer patients are not well understood and require further research. However, studies have shown that some patients may experience persistent symptoms and emotional challenges years after treatment.
Q: How can healthcare providers address the emotional challenges of breast cancer patients?
A: Healthcare providers can address the emotional challenges of breast cancer patients by:
Providing emotional support and counseling
Encouraging patients to express their feelings and concerns
Helping patients develop coping strategies and stress-reducing techniques
Connecting patients with support groups and resources
Q: What is the importance of assessing quality of life in breast cancer patients?
A: Assessing quality of life in breast cancer patients is important because it helps healthcare providers understand the impact of treatment on patients' overall well-being. It also helps identify areas where patients may need additional support and resources.
Q: How can breast cancer patients advocate for their quality of life?
A: Breast cancer patients can advocate for their quality of life by:
Communicating their needs and concerns to healthcare providers
Seeking support from family, friends, and support groups
Participating in decision-making about their care
Educating themselves about their treatment options and potential side effects
Q: What are the future research directions for improving the quality of life of breast cancer patients?
A: Future research directions for improving the quality of life of breast cancer patients include:
Investigating the long-term effects of modified radical mastectomy and radiotherapy on quality of life
Developing and evaluating interventions to improve quality of life, such as symptom management programs and social support groups
Examining the role of healthcare providers in improving quality of life
Conclusion
In conclusion, the quality of life of breast cancer patients is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to address. By understanding the common symptoms, challenges, and needs of breast cancer patients, healthcare providers can provide better care and support to improve their quality of life.