Impact of female breast cancer diagnosis and treatment on quality of life in Dakahlia government: A cross-sectional study

Background: Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide and continues to be the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. With advancements in screening and treatment, survival rates have improved significantly. However, the diagnosis and subsequent treatments—including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation—often result in profound physical, psychological, and social challenges, which collectively impair patients' overall quality of life. Understanding these multifaceted effects is critical in tailoring supportive care. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the impact of breast cancer diagnosis on the quality of life among female patients, exploring how various treatment modalities and long-term survivorship influence physical, emotional, and social well-being. It also seeks to identify unmet needs and potential areas for supportive intervention. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Mansoura Oncology Center, involving 52 female Egyptians breast cancer patients from Dakhalia government aged 18 years and older, post-diagnosis. Participants were selected through simple random sampling and met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected using the SF-36 health survey, a validated questionnaire designed to measure physical functioning, emotional status, social relationships, and role limitations. Both closed- and open-ended questions were included to gather quantitative and qualitative insights. Results: This study offers a comprehensive overview of breast cancer patients’ experiences, focusing on their physical, emotional, social, and economic well-being. Most participants were diagnosed in early stages and were predominantly married women aged 30–59. While many received multimodal treatments, a significant number continued to suffer from physical symptoms such as fatigue and pain, with nearly half unable to resume previous physical activities. Emotionally, over two-thirds reported fair or poor emotional health, with high levels of anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Despite this, healthcare satisfaction was high, and most patients felt informed and supported during treatment. Socially and economically, the disease had profound effects. Over 45% stopped working, and only 21% felt financially secure. Stigma and disrupted social relationships further contributed to emotional burden. Interestingly, a portion of participants identified personal growth, a new outlook on life, or community support as positive outcomes of their cancer journey.However, no statistically significant factors were found to predict quality of life, underscoring its complex and individualized nature.