SIDE EFFECTS, COPING STRATEGIES, AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN WOMEN TREATED FOR OVARIAN CANCER. A PRISMA SCOPE REVIEW

Project description: This project is a qualitative systematic review conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Its aim is to synthesize scientific evidence published between 2017 and 2024 regarding treatment-related side effects, coping strategies, and quality of life in adult women diagnosed and treated for ovarian cancer. The review includes original quantitative studies, both randomized and non-randomized, published in any language with full-text availability. Methodological quality was assessed using the CASP checklists, and only studies meeting acceptable quality standards were included. Eligible interventions include all oncological treatments for ovarian cancer: chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery (including cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC), as well as complementary and supportive interventions (e.g., exercise programs, dietary guidance, psychological support, auricular acupressure). Comparators include usual care, placebo, or alternative treatments. Purpose: To generate a comprehensive synthesis that not only documents the toxicities and adverse effects associated with treatment but also explores the coping strategies adopted by patients and their impact on physical, emotional, social, and sexual domains of quality of life. Expected outcomes: Identify common patterns and relevant differences in the recent literature on the experiences of women with ovarian cancer. Highlight knowledge gaps, particularly in psychosocial and sexuality-related aspects, which are often underrepresented in oncological research. Provide evidence to inform the design of integrated, patient-centered clinical follow-up protocols that address both biomedical and psychosocial dimensions. Guide future research towards a more holistic approach to ovarian cancer care, adapted to different cultural and healthcare contexts.