Factors related to quality of life in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.

This descriptive correlation study investigated the relationship among individual characteristics, disease characteristics, psychological factors (anxiety, depression, self-esteem), social support, and quality of life in patients with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy. One hundred and fifty women from nine Taipei area hospitals were surveyed with a structured questionnaire. The total quality of life index for breast cancer patients was about average (M = 19.88). The family factor scored highest for importance and satisfaction with quality of life. Patients showed the most dissatisfaction with the health factor. Of the individual characteristics affecting patient quality of life, number of children and social status were statistically significant (p < .05). Of the disease characteristics, the stage of the disease, the commencement of chemotherapy, and the number of chemotherapy treatments were statistically significant (p < .05). The psychological factors were significantly related to patients' quality of life (p < .05). Social support of both relatives and health professionals was significantly related to patients' quality of life (p < .01). Of the four independent variables (individual characteristics, disease characteristics, psychological factors and social support), the most influential factor affecting breast cancer patients' total quality of life was the psychological factor of self-esteem (p < .001). The findings can assist nurses to plan and improve the quality of breast cancer care in terms of understanding the factors affecting patients' quality of life.