QUALITY OF LIFE OF WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER AND SUPPORT OF SELF-HELP GROUPS: PILOT STUDY

Background. Assessment of quality of life (QoL) is important for cancer survival and can be influenced by positive social support. The aim of the study was to compare the QoL of patients with breast cancer in terms of using the support of a self-help group (SG) in relation to quality of life. Material and methods. The research group consisted of 135 respondents, who were the patients with malignant breast cancer. The first comparative sample of respondents, who did not attend the SG, was numbered 70. The second comparative sample of respondents, who attended the SG, consisted of 65 patients. Results. In mental health QoL, body image was rated better in patients who attended the SG; in relationship QoL, positive significance was shown in the sphere of sexual life and social support in the SG patients. In the environmental area, QoL was statistically significant in the availability of health services in favor of the SG patients. When comparing the individual domains of the questionnaire, we found more significant differences in the sphere of mental experience and social relationships for the SG patients. Conclusions. Social intervention has a positive effect on treatment outcome, length of life and the life quality of breast cancer survivors and contributes significantly to coping with changes in social ties, sexual intimacy in marriages and partnerships, family relationships and has a positive effect on improving mental and physical health.