Quality of life and functional status of patients treated for neoplastic disease in mid-northern Poland.

BACKGROUND: Research into the quality of life (QoL) of people with cancer is relevant for the diagnosis of the patient's health. The collected data are used to determine somatic complaints, psychological state and the needs for nursing care.

AIM: The study aimed to assess the overall QoL and functional status in relation to basic activities of daily living of patients diagnosed with cancer in our region.

METHODS: Using questionnaires for assessment of QoL and functional status (Barthel Index), we surveyed 500 adult patients (250 women and 250 men) diagnosed with neoplasms of varying etiology and staying at home.

RESULTS: The average QoL (± standard deviation) in the study population was low and amounted to 34.5 (±22.7) on the scale of 0-100. The most intensive symptoms were fatigue (69.9 ± 25.5) and pain (62.7 ± 29.1). The greatest demand for nursing care concerned grooming and bathing.

CONCLUSIONS: The QoL and functioning scores of patients with neoplasmic disease were low. The caregivers (usually nurses) should strive to minimize patients' fatigue and pain.