Quality of life and its determinants among colorectal cancer survivors

Background: Colorectal cancer has a significant impact on physical, mental and social discomfort of patients. The aim of this study was to assess different aspects of health-related quality of life and its association with demographic characteristics and some clinical features in colorectal cancer survivors in the city of Babol.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2013 among 120 colorectal cancer survivors identified in the cancer registry from 2007 to 2012. A questionnaire containing demographic data, disease characteristics and health-related quality of life (EORTC-QLQ-C30 standard questionnaire) was completed via face to face interview at patients’ homes.

Results: The mean total score of performance scale was significantly higher in men (69/24± 16/71) than in women (57/67 ± 17/87) (P=0.001). Men obtained higher scores in all 5 performance scales which was statistically significant in the domains of physical, emotional and cognitive performance. Among the demographic variables, comorbidities, education and employment were identified as the independent predictors of quality of life.

Conclusion: The patients had an average quality of life which was associated with employment, education and comorbidities. Therefore, empowering the health staff , increasing the awareness of patients and their families as well as better management of comorbidities can help the patients to return to an active life.