Assessment of Quality of Life and Prevalence of Depressive Symptoms in Oncologic Patients submitted to Radiotherapy

Abstract

Introduction: The quality of life of cancer patients has been studied in many Brazilian papers. However, despite the high prevalence of individuals undergoing radiotherapy, few studies with emphasis in this group of patients have been identified. Objective: To evaluate the quality of life and the prevalence of depressive symptoms in patients with malignant neoplasms undergoing radiotherapy treatment. Method: Quantitative cross-sectional study with 153 cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment at an oncology and radiotherapy specialized center, located in the northwest of Parana state. Data were collected between March and September 2018. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and the Beck Inventory were used to assess quality of life and depressive symptoms, respectively. Results: The domains “quality of life”, “cognitive function” and “social function” were the least affected in the studied sample, while “insomnia”, “loss of appetite” and “financial difficulties” stood out among the higher predictors of poor quality of life. In addition, it was found that 22% of the individuals evaluated had some degree of mood disorder, 11% being diagnosed with depression. Conclusion: The decline in quality of life and the prevalence of depressive symptoms in cancer patients, even those undergoing radiotherapy, emphasize the importance of early interventions aimed at restoring functionality and well-being.