Quality of Life among Younger Women with Breast Cancer.

INTRODUCTION: The diagnosis of breast cancer despite improved overall survival continues to Generate fear and turmoil in the lives of women and their families. Prevalence studies of Psychological distress indicate that one of every three newly diagnosed patients Experiences significant difficulty in adjustment. [1] Further evidence suggests that the Diagnosis of breast cancer generates more anxiety than any other cancer diagnosis. [2] At the time of diagnosis patients experience uncertainty, confusion and distress. Psychological distress can be exacerbated by inadequate information, complex treatment Decisions, and scheduling difficulties with various specialities. As treatment begins, Concerns related to physical functioning, body image, mood, sexuality, family and Vocational pursuits quickly emerge. Surgical options which include lumpectomy, Mastectomy and reconstruction present unique issues as the patient contemplates the Advantages and disadvantages of each procedure. Following surgery adjuvant therapy Generates additional physiological assaults that further affect body image, sexuality and Family life. They require rehabilitative assistance beyond the physical domain. Major Rehabilitation problem areas include physical, psychological, social, sexual, nutritional, Financial and vocational ones. For younger women the physical and psychosocial morbidity associated with Treatments may affect their ability to successfully function in social roles that typify this Age group. Hence we would like to study the quality of life issues in this subset. AIMS : 1. To describe the quality of life among breast cancer women with age less than or Equal to 35 years at the time of diagnosis. 2. To determine the contribution of socio demographic, medical and psychosocial Factors on quality of life. 3. To study the impact of breast conservation treatment and mastectomy on the Quality of life.