The need for comprehensive sleep disturbances assessment and management in breast cancer care

Breast cancer is the most common neoplasm among women, and sleep disturbances are prevalent symptoms that affect their quality of life. Despite evidence suggesting that sleep problems are common in this population, there is a lack of research that comprehensively analyses these aspects. This study focuses on assessing sleep quality, insomnia severity and its impact on several variables, including health-related quality of life, in women diagnosed with breast cancer. To assess sleep quality, insomnia severity and its impact on several variables, including health-related quality of life, in women diagnosed with breast cancer. An observational study was conducted with 245 women diagnosed with breast cancer. Participants with conditions that could interfere with sleep were excluded. Standardised questionnaires, such as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Insomnia Severity Index, were used. In addition, the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life and Breast Cancer Questionnaires were administered and sociodemographic, clinical and treatment-related variables were recorded. Almost 66% of the participants reported poor sleep quality. Sleep disturbances were associated with a significant deterioration in participants' quality of life, affecting both their daily functioning and intensity of the symptoms experienced. Women in chemotherapy treatment showed greater severity of insomnia (8.30 ± 6.36; p < 0.001) and significantly worse sleep quality (8.80 ± 4.91; p < 0.001). A greater number of chemotherapy cycles was also associated with an increase in insomnia symptoms (p = 0.015). Women with breast cancer experience a high prevalence of sleep disturbances, which negatively impacts their quality of life. The need to systematically identify and address sleep problems throughout treatment and recovery is emphasised, as these disturbances can affect patients' overall well-being and functional ability.