Influência do tratamento oncológico na qualidade de vida em crianças e adolescentes: revisão integrativa da literatura

Abstract

Cancer treatment in children and adolescents is associated with significant impacts on quality of life, affecting different aspects of development and well-being. Objective: To evaluate the impact of chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy on the quality of life of children and adolescents with cancer, considering physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and school domains. Materials and Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and the Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases, with descriptors in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Original studies published between 2021 and 2026, involving participants aged 0 to 19 years and using validated quality-of-life assessment instruments, were included. After applying the eligibility criteria, eight studies were selected. Results: The studies showed a reduction in quality of life during and after treatment, characterized by fatigue, nausea, pain, anxiety, body image changes, and impairments in school activities and social relationships. Chemotherapy was the treatment modality most frequently associated with negative outcomes. Childhood cancer survivors also presented persistent effects on quality of life in adulthood. Conclusion: Pediatric cancer treatment negatively affects multiple dimensions of quality of life, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary care focused on physical, emotional, and psychosocial support to promote the well-being of patients and their families.