In a nutshell
This study evaluated how changes in the quality of life (QoL) score influence survival in prostate cancer patients.
Some background
Previous studies have demonstrated that a high quality of life (QoL) at the time of diagnosis significantly decreases the risk of mortality. Thus, scales scoring patients QoL provide information about the impact of the disease, guiding doctors in choosing the best treatment strategy. Whether changes in QoL throughout treatment also hold prognostic significance is yet to be determined.
Methods & findings
The study included 250 men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Patient completed a medical questionnaire, referred to as the quality of life questionnaire (QLQ-C30), at the beginning of their treatment and 3 months after treatment. This cancer specific questionnaire includes several social, psychological and functional parameters.
Changes in QoL score throughout treatment significantly affected survival, especially for dyspnea (shortness of breath) and impairments in cognitive function (higher brain function). Every 10-point increase (worsening) in dyspnea QoL score was associated with a 16% increased risk of death, and every 10-point increase (improvement) in cognitive functioning was associated with a 24% decreased risk of death.
The bottom line
Quality of life changes during treatment are significantly associated to the risk of mortality. Physicians and patients should carefully observe for worsening dyspnea or cognitive function throughout treatment.
The fine print
QoL scores were assessed over a short time period only, and different treatments received by different patients were not taken into account when analyzing results. In addition, mainly early stage patients were included in this study, although results theoretically apply to advanced cancer patients as well.
What’s next?
Consult with your physician on how to increase quality of life during prostate cancer treatments.
Published By :
Urology
Date :
Jul 10, 2013
