Impact of treatment on the quality of life of patients with cervical cancer at a tertiary facility in sub-Saharan Africa

Introduction: Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, with treatment modalities such as chemoradiotherapy impacting patients' quality of life (QoL). This study assessed the QoL of cervical cancer patients undergoing definitive chemoradiotherapy. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the National Radiotherapy, Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, between February and May 2023. A total of 120 adult female cervical cancer patients, treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy, were purposively recruited. Data were collected using the FACT-Cx questionnaire, which assessed physical, social, emotional and functional well-being as well as additional concerns. Statistical analysis included descriptive and inferential methods with Spearman Rho used to examine correlations. Results: The mean age of participants was 53<middle dot>5 years (SD 15<middle dot>6), with most (77%) employed and half (50%) married. QoL scores were highest in social well-being (mean = 17<middle dot>3/24<middle dot>0) and emotional well-being (mean = 16<middle dot>8/24<middle dot>0), but lower in physical (mean = 15<middle dot>4/28<middle dot>0) and functional well-being (mean = 12<middle dot>3/24<middle dot>0). Most participants (66<middle dot>7%) reported a good QoL, while 6<middle dot>7% reported poor QoL. Key challenges included fatigue, pain and dissatisfaction with sex life, although participants received strong emotional support from their families. Correlations between age and QoL domains were statistically insignificant (p > 0<middle dot>05). Conclusions: The findings suggest that despite the physical and functional challenges faced during chemoradiotherapy, most participants reported good overall QoL, largely attributed to strong family and social support. Future studies should incorporate longitudinal designs with baseline data collection to better understand treatment-related changes in QoL.