Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Chemotherapy improves survival in cancer patients; however, it often adversely affects their health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study aimed to explore the key factors influencing it, and evaluation of (HRQoL), ADR’s and Psychological distress.
METHODS: A six-month cross-sectional observational study enrolled cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL), adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and psychological distress were evaluated using validated questionnaires. Welch’s t-test was applied for to determine associations. Ethical clearance was obtained from ICMR-RMRIMS, Patna. (RMRI/EC/26/2024 on 12-09-2024)
RESULTS: The study population had a mean age of 47.17 ± 11.89 years, with 70.7% being female and 97.1% residing in rural areas. Solid tumors were the most prevalent cancer type (89.5%), with 68.2% of cases diagnosed at Stage 2. The most frequently reported ADRs were hematological complications (76.2%), followed by gastrointestinal disturbances (13.4%) and pain-related side effects (7.1%). Patients diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer had significantly lower functional scores (p<0.001).Younger adults(18-34 years), females, and individuals with lower education levels reported higher anxiety and depression levels, which were further aggravated by prolonged hospital stays. ADRs were classified as probable (76.2%), highlighting the critical need for improved pharmacovigilance and integrated patient management strategies.
CONCLUSIONS: Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy experience significantly decline in their health-related quality of life (HRQoL), which is further exacerbated by adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and psychological distress. These findings emphasize the importance of early symptom management, psychological support, and enhanced pharmacovigilance strategies to improve patient well-being and treatment outcomes.