A Pilot Cross-sectional Study Comparing WHO QOL-BREF and SF-36 Questionnaires in Measuring Health-related Quality After Modified Radical Mastectomy

Abstract

Abstract Background Breast cancer is a significant health issue in India, with a growing number of cases and increasing morbidity associated with treatment. Assessing quality of life (QoL) in breast cancer patients is essential for understanding the impact of the disease and treatment on their well-being. Objective This study aimed to assess health-related quality of life (QoL) and the factors influencing it in postmodified radical mastectomy (MRM) patients using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHO QOL BREF) and the 36-item short-form survey (SF 36) questionnaires. The feasibility of these tools in the outpatient department (OPD) setting and the time taken to administer them were also compared. Methods A cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Nagpur, over two months. A total of 30 patients who underwent MRM for breast carcinoma were included. Sociodemographic information was recorded, and QoL was measured using the WHO QOL BREF and SF-36 questionnaires. The questionnaires were administered in the OPD, and the average time of administration was noted. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the correlation between QoL scores and various characteristics of the study population. Results: The overall mean QoL score was greater for the WHO QOL-BREF (65.39) than for the SF-36 (53.41). The social health domain had the highest score in the WHO QOL BREF, while the emotional well-being domain had the highest score in the SF-36. The mean administration time was significantly shorter for the WHO QOL BREF than for the SF-36. No significant correlation was found between QoL scores and patient characteristics, except for a weak association between higher stage and lower SF-36 overall QoL score. Conclusion The breast cancer patients in this study reported lower health-related QoL than did the healthy Indian individuals. The WHO QOL BREF and SF-36 questionnaires were feasible for use in the OPD setting, with the WHO QOL BREF requiring less time for administration. However, further research with a larger sample size is needed to explore the factors influencing QoL in this population.