Changes in Memory, Cognitive Function, and Pattern of Distress among Breast Cancer Patients and Survivors: A Study from a Tertiary Cancer Center

Abstract Cancer-related cognitive impairment is an unexplored area, which can be distressing and can affect the daily functioning and quality of life of a cancer patient. The aim of the study was to find the changes in memory, cognitive function, and pattern of distress among breast cancer patients and survivors using a cross-sectional comparative study design. Women diagnosed with early breast cancer, aged between 20 and 60 years and planned for or those who underwent chemotherapy were included. Seventy-nine participants (survivors [N = 27], postchemotherapy patients [N = 27], and prechemotherapy patients [N = 25]) were assessed using the Post-Graduate Institute Memory Scale, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer, and Distress Inventory for Cancer. Most of the survivors and postchemotherapy patients had increased cognitive (p = 0.02) and memory impairment (p = 0.057) than prechemotherapy patients. Memory was positively correlated with cognitive function (p = 0.000, r = 0.669) and negatively correlated with distress (p = 0.045, r = –0.226). Memory (p < 0.001) and cognitive functioning (p = 0.002) were better with higher education levels. Older participants had higher memory impairment (p = 0.05, r = –0.218). The study concluded that there was cognitive decline and distress among breast cancer patients and survivors after completion of chemotherapy. Thus, the study highlights the importance of psychotherapeutic interventions to prevent and manage changes in memory, cognitive decline, and distress among breast cancer patients and survivors.