Health related quality of life of women with cervical cancer

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the health related quality of life (HRQoL) of women with cervical cancer and to identify predictors of quality of life. Between November 2008 and February 2009, 149 women were interviewed. The instrument Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Cervix Cancer (FACT-Cx) was used to assess HRQoL and, in general, the scores obtained indicated positive evaluation. The items that showed negative evaluation were: “I am interested in sex”, “I feel sexually attractive”, “I am afraid to have sex” and “My vagina feels too narrow or short”. In multiple linear regression analysis, using the backward method, of the 18 independent variables, eight were predictive of HRQoL. Self-perceived health status was the most influential factor. Special attention should be given to the sexual dysfunctions of these women after radiotherapy.