Multifactorial Analysis of Influences on Quality of Life in Cancer Patients

The diminished quality of life experienced by cancer patients impacts not only the individuals but also the broader healthcare system. Despite the effect that cancer has on quality of life both during and after treatment, quality of life assessments are not yet commonly implemented, and the specific factors influencing quality of life are not well understood. The aim of this study was to conduct comprehensive multifactorial analysis to identify the factors that influence the quality of life in cancer patients.

This study comprised a cohort of 108 patients diagnosed with cancer. The EORTC QLQ C-30 and EORTC QLQ-INFO 25 questionnaires were used to interview participants, along with questions related to disease course and lifestyle factors.

Differences were found in various subdomains among male versus female, individuals who solicited nutritional information in cancer themselves versus those who did not, individuals who reported consulting a dietitian versus those who did not, individuals who reported a recent decrease in their food intake versus those who did not report it. The results of the stepwise multiple regression show the following factors as the most important factors affecting their quality of life: patients soliciting nutritional information, reduced food intake, types of nutrition support, age, gender, seeking consultation with a dietitian, place of residence, and education level.

In addition to sociodemographic variables and those related to the location, course, and treatment of cancer, including type of cancer, the variable related to patients' declared need for soliciting nutritional information and seeking consultation with a dietitian may also influence quality of life. Therefore, the above factors in determining the quality of life and well-being of patients should also be considered in a holistic approach to patient care.