Fadiga oncológica e qualidade de vida em pacientes mulheres com câncer de mama submetidas à quimioterapia e radioterapia

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer-related fatigue is a prevalent symptom that interferes with physical, emotional, and social aspects, negatively impacting the quality of life of cancer patients. Objective: To evaluate cancer-related fatigue and its impact on the quality of life of women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Method: This is a descriptive and cross-sectional epidemiological study with a quantitative approach involving 48 women undergoing cancer treatment. A sociodemographic questionnaire, the Fatigue Identification and Consequences Scale (EICF), and the EORTC QLQ-C30 quality of life questionnaire were used. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of PUC Goiás, with opinion nº 3.236.980. Results: The mean age was 53 years, with a predominance of diagnosis longer than two years. Fatigue was observed in all domains, with the greatest impact on daily activities and concentration. Combined chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment was associated with higher symptom scores and worse global quality of life perception compared to radiotherapy alone. The functional scale showed an intermediate mean, while global health was perceived as moderate. Conclusion: Cancer-related fatigue was moderately present in the sample, demonstrating a direct impact on functionality and overall well-being. The findings reinforce the need for systematic evaluations and multidisciplinary interventions to mitigate the cumulative effects of oncological treatment.