Factors affecting the quality of life of people with colostoma

Abstract

Introduction. Colon cancer is a public health problem due to its frequency. According to the number of diagnosed cases, it is the third most common malignant tumor in the world in people of both sexes, and even the second most common in terms of mortality. The incidence is higher in developed regions, although increase is recorded in the developing countries due to changes in the living habits of the population. Operation is the method of choice in the disease treatment, and the performance of colostomy affects the patient?s life, although it significantly prolongs it. Material and Methods. Literature review available in scientific databases was used as material in order to present significant results of the latest existing research in the selected area. Results. A wide range of studies conducted to observe the predictive factors, which in different ways affect the quality of life of patients with colostomy, confirm that the psychological aspects of the newly created situation have the most prominent importance in further life. In addition to possible problems with nutrition, stoma care, dressing, physical activity, professional and sexual life, and travel, it seems that coping with stress and changes in physical appearance are the fields on which the most work should be directed by both the family and the patient, as well as members of the medical team. Conclusion. The quality of life of people with colostomy is interference of medical and rehabilitation treatment, and it depends on the patient?s willingness to cooperate during the entire treatment, care and rehabilitation process. All reference bodies and institutions should undertake activities to design a comprehensive strategy for improving life quality, primarily through the prism of improving one?s own body image, functional status, psychological and social support.