Variables predictivas de calidad de vida en mujeres con cáncer de mama

Abstract

Objective: We studied the predictive value of sociodemographic, clinical (type of treatment) and psychological variables such as early maladaptive schemas, beliefs and perceptions about the disease and the coping strategies used by patients on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of women with breast cancer under treatment. Method: We conducted a descriptive and correlational predictive study. Two hundred twenty-eight adult breast cancer patients under outpatient treatment from the public healthcare system were included. Interviews were conducted and sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. Several questionnaires were applied: FACT-B questionnaire, early maladaptive schemas form, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R) and COPE dispositional questionnaires. Results: Descriptive and inferential analysis, multiple linear regression, and hierarchical regression were performed. Oncology treatments subtypes did not influence HRQoL. However, women who had undergone a mastectomy without reconstruction showed significantly decreased HRQoL values. Variables that showed a statistical relationship in explaining the global FACT-B were: schemes of emotional deprivation, abandonment, defectiveness/ shame, vulnerability, attachment, domain 3 and domain 4. Also, all the IPQ-R values were significantly related to the Global HRQoL. The beliefs and global perception of the disease (IPQ-R) and EDT domains, have shown predictive value on HRQL. In conclusion, women with a threatening perception of the disease tended to activate functional patterns characterized by emotional disconnection, isolation, and shame; or others characterized by dependency, loss of autonomy and self-confidence. Beliefs and perceptions about the disease activate needs and patterns of cognitive, emotional and relational responses (maladaptive schemas), being both predictive variables of greater or lesser adjustment and global perception of self well-being.