International Journal of Hematology and Oncology 2023, Vol 33, Num 4 Page(s): 108-120
THE EFFECT OF ADJUVANT TREATMENT ON THE LONG TERM QUALITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS WITH RECTAL CANCER

Diclehan ÜNSAL1, Evrim TUNÇ1, Yücel PAK1

Gazi Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Radyasyon Onkolojisi Anabilim Dalı, ANKARA

Keywords: Rectal cancer, Adjuvant treatment, Radiotherapy, Quality of life
The effect of adjuvant treatments on the long term quality of life of rectal cancer patients was evaluated.

One hundred and two locally advanced rectal cancer patients still with disease free survival were included in the study. They were asked to complete Turkish versions of EORTC QLQ-C30 and CR-38.

Fifty of 102 patients were female and the median age was 55 years. APR was applied in 53% and postoperative treatment in 84% of the patients. Median follow-up time was 2.7 years. Global health status was better in patients with short follow-up. Functional parameters were better in patients operated with LAR and followed-up less than 3 years. Symptom parameters were better in patients with LAR (fatigue, pain, constipation, micturation problems), with a follow- up time of ≥3 years (fatigue, insomni, defecation problems, colostomy problems), in males (fatigue, insomnia, colostomy problems), <60 years older (fatigue and gastrointestinal problems).

The most important parameters that have an impact on the quality of life of rectal cancer patients treated with adjuvant treatment were found to be the surgery type and the follow-up time.