The experience of musculoskeletal symptoms among patients with breast cancer during aromatase inhibitor therapy: A qualitative study.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the musculoskeletal symptom experiences of Chinese patients with breast cancer receiving aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy and identify patient-centered strategies for symptom management.

METHODS

A descriptive qualitative study was conducted from June to August 2023 at a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China. Using purposive sampling with maximum variation, 37 women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer (stages I-III) undergoing AI therapy participated in semi-structured telephone interviews. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically.

RESULTS

Four themes were identified: (1) Symptom burden-persistent joint pain, stiffness, and fatigue interfered with daily activities; (2) Emotional impact-symptoms provoked anxiety, frustration, and reduced well-being; (3) Social challenges-decreased participation in social and family life led to feelings of isolation; and (4) Coping strategies-pharmacological measures (e.g., calcium and vitamin D supplementation) and non-pharmacological interventions (e.g., exercise, acupuncture) were adopted, though access to reliable information and professional guidance was often inadequate.

CONCLUSIONS

Musculoskeletal symptoms related to AI therapy impose considerable physical, emotional, and social burdens on Chinese patients with breast cancer, potentially undermining treatment adherence. Culturally appropriate, patient-centered management incorporating both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions is essential to optimize symptom control and quality of life.