Cancer Related Cognitive Impairment in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Case - Control Study of Karnataka, India

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Breast cancer patients report difficulties with concentration, multi-tasking, and memory. Cognitive dysfunction can impact the quality of life by affecting activities of daily living, treatment compliance, interpersonal relationships, and profession. Aims: The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the cognitive functions and psychological complications in breast cancer patients with a control population. Settings and Design: This study was conducted in the outpatient department of Bharath Hospital and Institute of Oncology, Mysore, where the cases were recruited. The study participants were 110 female breast cancer patients and 100 noncancer healthy females as controls. Materials and Methods: Demographic details of the participants were collected through a questionnaire. Clinical data were obtained from clinical records. Tools used were Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) to evaluate cognitive functions, depression, and anxiety, respectively. Statistical Analysis: The various findings were analyzed using mean, frequency, Pearson’s correlation, and two-sample t-test. Results: Mild cognitive impairment was observed in 88% of the cancer patients, and more than 95% were under severe anxiety and depression. There is a highly significant difference in all three tests (MoCA Test, HAM-D test, HAM-A test) with a P < 0.001. Conclusion: Breast cancer patients show statistically significant cognitive deficits as compared to noncancer individuals.