Beyond survival: Quality of life and symptoms burden among underprivileged breast cancer patients in Sirajganj, Bangladesh.

Abstract

e24119 Background: While breast cancer survival has improved globally, post-treatment quality of life (QoL) remains inadequately studied in low-resource settings. This study evaluated QoL and symptom burden among socioeconomically underprivileged breast cancer survivors in rural Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between May 2023 and October 2024 at Shaheed M. Monsur Ali Medical College Hospital, Sirajganj. One hundred histologically confirmed breast cancer survivors completed validated Bangla versions of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23 questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and multivariable regression analyses were used to identify predictors of impaired QoL. Results: The mean age was 42 ± 8 years; 48% had stage II and 42% stage III disease. Mean functional domain scores were modest: physical (64%), emotional (56%), cognitive (52%), role (49%), and social functioning (50%). The most burdensome symptoms were fatigue (66%), pain (63%), and financial difficulties (57%). On multivariable analysis, lower educational attainment (p < 0.01), unemployment (p < 0.05), and advanced disease stage (p < 0.05) were independently associated with poorer global QoL. Conclusions: Breast cancer survivors from underprivileged rural communities in Bangladesh experience substantial physical, psychosocial, and financial distress following treatment. Incorporating structured psychosocial support, financial counseling, and survivorship-focused interventions into routine cancer care is essential to improve holistic recovery in low-resource settings.