The Development of a Comprehensive Instrument to Measure Symptom Distress in Women After Treatment for Breast Cancer
Abstract
As women attempt to integrate the diagnosis of breast cancer into their lives, dealing with residual symptoms and symptom distress after treatment is complete can affect functioning and the quality of life. Little is known about the actual symptom experience, symptom distress, and symptom trajectory after adjuvant treatment is complete. There are three aims of this study: (1.) Identify the full scope of symptoms and symptom distress in women with breast cancer after adjuvant treatment; (2.) develop a comprehensive instrument to measure symptoms and symptom distress after treatment; (3.) test the new instrument using future funding. The initial component of this award consisted of the Principal Investigator taking formal courses in scientific oncology, women's issues, and instrument development, all of which have been completed. The next component dealt with subject recruitment, interviewing, and questionnaire completion. To date, 41 out of 100 women have been recruited. The most common symptoms are: insomnia, fatigue, poor concentration, and diminished outlook; the most distressful are: menopausal symptoms, muscle and joint pains, and peripheral neuropathies and affect functioning, quality of life, and last well into a year after treatment. Though concerned about future wellness, most women found their healthcare providers and family supportive.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA437204
Entities
People
- Bill Wu
- Jean K. Brown
- M. T. Knobf
- Marcia Boehmke
- Ruth Mccorkle
Organizations
- University at Buffalo