Predictors of quality of life of breast cancer patients

Research has indicated that several demographic and clinical factors may affect the quality of life of breast cancer patients. Few studies, however, have sufficient sample sizes for multivariate analyses to be tested. Furthermore, several important factors, such as arm morbidity, communication and comorbid illness, have not been included in quality of life models. The aim of this study was to predict the simultaneous effect of these factors on long-term quality of life. Breast cancer patients (n = 990) completed a quality of life survey, including the EORTC QLQ-C30, over five years. Clinical details were registered in the Munich Cancer Registry. Eleven predictors across eight quality of life domains were analyzed over a period of five years using a logistic regression model. Arm problems, communication, comorbidity, age, surgery, and, to a lesser extent, marital, educational and employment status were significantly associated with quality of life. Adjuvant therapy, medical insurance and pT category were not significant predictors. This study is the first to demonstrate the consistency and strength of arm dysfunction and doctor - patient communication on breast cancer patients' quality of life. These important factors in breast cancer care can be improved and should be regarded as a priority.