Breast Cancer-Related Quality of Life among Women Undergoing Treatment: A Hospital-Based Study in Vietnam.

BACKGROUND

Despite the rising incidence of breast cancer (BC), survival rates have improved due to advancements in early detection and treatment. With longer survival, it is increasingly important to evaluate and enhance patients' quality of life (QoL), particularly the functional and symptom-related aspects of BC. This study aims to assess BC-related QoL and its associated factors among women undergoing treatment.

METHOD: A hospital-based cross-sectional study assessed BC-related QoL in 284 patients using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QoL Questionnaire for BC (QLQ-BR45) between March 10 and May 14, 2025. Statistical analyses included multivariable linear regression to identify factors associated with 12 domains of patient QoL.

RESULTS

QoL findings showed high body image scores (72.51) but low sexual functioning (13.50) and sexual enjoyment (26.29), with hair-loss distress (51.32) and systemic therapy side effects (30.92) being the most burdensome symptoms. Older age and higher body mass index (BMI) had both positive and negative associations with QoL, while marriage, higher education, urban residence, and longer breastfeeding were linked to better outcomes. Late-stage disease, older age at first childbirth, and receiving no treatment were linked to poorer outcomes. Treatment had varying effects on QoL domains: surgery plus chemotherapy improved sexual enjoyment, while non-surgical approaches alleviated symptoms across several QoL-related domains.

CONCLUSION

BC patients showed strong body image but poor sexual functioning and notable symptom burdens, underscoring the need for supportive care that addresses physical and psychosocial issues. Routine QoL monitoring and broader multicenter studies are essential to guide tailored interventions and improve overall patient QoL.