Erika Lourdes M. Adajar
Cervical cancer is a serious health problem. The burden of disease of cervical cancer in the Philippines as a developing nation is high. The aim of this study was to determine the quality of life and sexual functioning of Filipino patients with cervical cancer on first consult, 3 months, and 6 months of completion of definitive chemoradiation. This is a 2-year prospective longitudinal observational study. Patients were assessed for QoL and sexual functioning using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QoL Questionnaire QLQ-C30 and EORTC (QLQ-CX24), respectively.Fifty five patients were included for the analysis. Six months after the definitive chemoradiation, patients showed improved global health status/QoL and better physical role, cognitive, and emotional functioning than first day of treatment. Patients updated lower recurrence of symptoms. As to the sexual functioning impact of definitive chemoradiation on patients with cervical cancer, the patients experienced more problems with sexual activity and sexual enjoyment. Moreover, it is reported that all sexual function scales are correlated with health status of patients 6 months after treatment.
This paper aided the health care providers to have a better understanding of the QoL and sexual functioning of cervical cancer patients who deal with its treatment sequelae. In addition, this will help counsel cervical cancer patients on what they could expect in a long term since definitive chemoradiation will have a great impact on their QoL. Furthermore, this study will also contribute on how to improve further research for Filipino women with cervical cancer.
