In a nutshell
The study investigated the effectiveness of a self-management program on antiemetic-induced constipation in breast cancer patients. The study concluded that the self-management program was effective for relieving the symptoms of constipation during chemotherapy.
Some background
Breast cancer patients may decide to take antiemetic drugs during chemotherapy. These are drugs used to help prevent vomiting and nausea. However, a side effect of antiemetic drugs can be constipation (difficulty in emptying the bowels). It has been reported that constipation is one of the most distressing side effects of cancer therapy. Given that cancer patients can be taking multiple drugs as part of their treatment, non-drug alternatives for dealing with constipation would be recommended.
Methods & findings
The current study looked at the effectiveness of a self-management program on antiemetic-induced constipation in breast cancer patients. The study included 30 breast cancer patients who were receiving antiemetic drugs during chemotherapy. 15 patients followed an intervention program with their first chemotherapy cycle, while 15 patients were put on a waiting list. The self-management approach involved stomach massage, stomach muscle stretching and education on helpful positions for emptying the bowels. The study participants reported their satisfaction with the program and how it affected their mood. Their constipation severity was also reported using a constipation assessment scale.
The severity of constipation was about 40% lower in the group undertaking the self-management program. There was a decrease in the likelihood of a small volume of stool. Decreases in depression and dejection were also reported. With regards to program satisfaction, 43.6% of patients reported the program was excellent and 26.4% of patients reported the program was good.
The bottom line
The study concluded that the self-management program was effective for relieving the symptoms of antiemetic-induced constipation during chemotherapy.
The fine print
A limitation of the study is that only short-term effects of the self-management program were evaluated.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about alternative methods for dealing with constipation during chemotherapy.
Published By :
Breast Cancer Research and Treatment
Date :
Dec 09, 2015
