Functionality and Disability of Women Undergoing Breast Cancer Surgery: Utilization of the International Classification of Functionality, Disability, and Health

Abstract

Introduction: The utilization of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) guides the clinical reasoning and planning of cancer care. Objective: To determine the functionality and disability of women who underwent mastectomy, through the application of quality of life and self-esteem, perimetry, and biophotometry questionnaires, converted by the linking rules to the ICF categories. Method: Crosssectional study with 30 women who underwent mastectomy, over 40 years old regardless of postoperative time, assessed through quality-of-life questionnaires, upper limb dysfunction, Rosenberg’s self-esteem scale, biophotometry, and perimetry converted to the ICF conceptual model by the linking rules. Results: Women who underwent breast cancer surgery frequently presented changes in their body structure (hair (86.6%), breast and nipples (76.6%)), and in their body functions, (pain in upper limb (83.3%) and reduced shoulder mobility in abduction (100%) and flexion (93%) movements)); limitations in their daily activities (completing the daily routine (73.3%), transport (76.6%), turn or twist the hands (80%), washing body parts (73.3%), doing housework (73.3%)); limited participation (handling responsibilities (73.3%)), and environmental facilitators (family relationships and access to health services). Conclusion: Women who underwent breast cancer surgery had disabilities related to their body structure and functions, limitation of activities and participation and presence of environmental facilitators, suggesting impacts in the lives of these women beyond the health condition.