A Qualitative Study on the Coping Mechanisms of The Side Effects of Cytotoxic Drugs on the Quality of Life of Breast Cancer Patients.

Many cytotoxic drugs used to treat cancer are known to be teratogenic and mutagenic to patients. The quality of life of breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy is a critical area of focus in oncology care. In Nigeria, breast cancer patients are often ill-prepared to cope with the untoward effects associated with chemotherapy. The purpose of the study was to determine the awareness of cytotoxic drug side effects on the quality of life of breast cancer patients attending selected healthcare facilities. The present study utilized a mixed-method research approach with an explanatory sequential design, using a case study framework. The study was conducted at three selected hospitals in South-East Nigeria (Imo State University Teaching Hospital Orlu, Abia State University Teaching Hospital Aba, and Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi, Anambra State) between January 2023 and April 2023. A multistage sampling technique involving simple random sampling, purposive sampling, and census sampling was adopted. Two hundred and sixty-four (264) breast cancer patients were recruited, out of which 27 participated in the qualitative part of the study. Eleven (11) in-depth interviews were conducted, and two (2) focus group discussions (FGDs) consisting of eight persons per group (total of 16 persons) were held for data collection. Thematic analysis was used for the data. The results illuminated two major themes: repulsive realities and holistic evaluation of life, along with eight sub-themes. The findings revealed that participants were aware of side effects such as vomiting, hair loss, and peripheral neuropathy. Coping mechanisms adopted included family support, spiritual support, and medical advice. The results also showed that patients had a generally low quality of life associated with treatment side effects, specifically in the domains of physical well-being, functionality, emotional and psychological well-being, social well-being, relationships, and financial and economic stability. The study concluded that there is a transitional pathway from being a novice about treatment options to developing awareness including navigating myths and misconceptions—before reaching full cognizance, alongside a general low quality of life associated with treatment side effects. It was recommended that healthcare providers should provide more information about chemotherapy side effects to patients to enable informed decision-making.