Physical Functional Impairment in Breast Cancer Patients: A Cross-Sectional Expert Survey

Anti-cancer treatment imparts a variety of physical impairments that cause limitations in physical functioning among women with breast cancer. The aim of the study was to explore the opinions of healthcare professionals (HCPs) working with breast cancer patients on various aspects of physical functional impairments in breast cancer patients and survivors (BCP&S).

The study was a cross-sectional survey. Taking into consideration the literature definition of 'physical function', its determinants, and literature published on relevant clinical factors in breast cancer, a survey questionnaire containing 29 questions was constructed. Thirty-seven HCPs, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and medical cancer experts, participated in the study. The participant's responses were obtained using a 5-point 'Agreement' Likert scale. Data analysis included a frequency table and the reliability test (Cronbach's alpha).

The reliability of the questionnaire used in the survey was found to be acceptable (Cronbach's alpha = 0.891). The majority of the participants were of the opinion that various parameters and determinants of 'physical function' get adversely affected in BCP&S, leading to limitations in the performance of activities of daily living (e.g., dressing and bathing), particularly in elderly and frail women. Participants agreed that such impairments in physical functioning affect social and role functioning and the overall quality of life (QoL) of women with breast cancer negatively.

This study found that various parameters and determinants of physical functioning are adversely affected in BCP&S, and physical functional impairments are prevalent in women with breast cancer, affecting their QoL negatively. Implications for breast cancer patients: This study points out the need for long-term surveillance of BCP&S for physical functional limitations and a proactive treatment approach to prevent such limitations.