Journal
EJSO
Volume 38, Issue 2, Pages 130-136Publisher
ELSEVIER SCI LTD
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2011.10.012
Keywords
Breast cancer; Breast symmetry; Quality of life
Ask authors/readers for more resources
Aims: This study investigates how quality of life (QoL) of breast cancer patients is related to breast symmetry. Methods: We objectively measured breast symmetry using the breast analyzing tool (BAT) in 101 patients after breast conserving surgery for breast cancer at different time points during follow up. We correlated the results with the quality of life measured at the same time using the breast image scale (BIS), the EORTC QLQ-BR23 scale and a not validated sexual score scale. Age, tumour size, tumour/breast relation and the use of oncoplastic surgery were also correlated with symmetry and quality of life scales. Using multivariate analyses, independent parameters for an improved quality of life were identified. Results: Mean age was 56 ( 11.6), and 75.2% of patients had T1 or T2 tumours. Patient age (p = 0.03) and tumour size (p = 0.01) significantly influenced objectively measured breast symmetry. The cosmetic result was important for 53% of patients while 48% found it not important. Independent from this, neither overall quality of life nor breast self esteem was influenced by breast symmetry in our patients. Conclusions: After breast cancer surgery, breast symmetry is not a major factor for patients' quality of life and breast self esteem. Cosmetic result seems to be less important than oncologic outcome in patients with breast cancer. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available