The impact of chemotherapy on the memory and quality of life of oncology patients in a referral hospital in Recife

Chemotherapy is the most used treatment and has several positive aspects in the treatment of cancer. However, there are negative impacts, such as side effects, which cause emotional, social and cognitive consequences, such as memory. Despite the assistance provided by various professionals, memory may suffer some damage, causing varying impacts. Here we see the need to understand and analyze the impact of chemotherapy treatment on memory and quality of life. Thus, the research aims to analyze the impact of chemotherapy on the memory and quality of life of cancer patients, through an exploratory and quantitative study, which used a socio-demographic and clinical questionnaire, a Quality of Life Scale for Survivors of Cancer (EQV-SC) and a memory test, characterized by the Rey Audio-verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). It was carried out in a reference hospital in Recife, with 35 patients aged 30 to 50, who were undergoing chemotherapy treatment. The results demonstrate possible repercussions on memory and quality of life, covering physical, psychological, spiritual well-being and social concerns.