QUALITY OF LIFE AND BREAST CANCER: EFFECTS OF A COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION

Abstract

The present study examined the effects of a cognitive-behavioral intervention on the Quality of Life of breast cancer patients. These patients suffer from both their medical condition and the side-effects of its treatment, often complicated by dire socio-economic conditions. A total of sixty non-terminal patients with confirmed diagnostic of breast cancer participated. Measurement included the Quality of Life and Health Inventory (InCaViSa) with scales on: worrying, physical performance, personal isolation, body perception, cognitive functioning, attitude toward medical treatment, recreation, family interaction, social networks/support, medical dependence and relationship with the health team. Measurement involved pretest, posttest and one and three months follow up. Once ethical requirements were met, sixty patients were individually exposed to a psycho-education module and then to procedures aimed at: establishing therapeutic adherence behaviors, changing distorted or dysfunctional cognitions, and improving emotional self regulation. Results revealed statistically and clinically relevant improvement in all Quality of Life Areas and self care for the great majority of participants.