Quality of life of women after mastectomy

Introduction: Cancer can be considered as a factor having long-term and allencompassing impact on quality of life. The woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer faces new challenges such as adaptation to cope with the immediate symptoms and side effects of the medication distant. During this period, there are a variety of negative psychological reactions in response to a threat to life and limb. The least known personality changes that occur after surgery and the related quality of life.

Aim of the study: To characterize and description of the personality changes that occur in women after mastectomy and the impact of these changes on their quality of life. It was assumed that the disease, its treatment, and the consequences can cause personality changes, which in turn can significantly decrease their quality of life.

Material and methods: The study included 20 patients treated in the Department of Oncological Surgery, Medical University of Gdansk. Research conducted immediately before surgery mastectomy, and after a period of 3 months after mastectomy. The study used records analysis, clinical interview, questionnaire EORTC QLQ-C30 and a Polish version of a questionnaire to the International Personality Research (IPIP-QPV).

Results and conclusions: It was found that in women after mastectomy, there are changes in the intensity of personality traits. It was observed increase in agreeableness, neuroticism, extraversion and conscientiousness reduction, remained constant openness to experience. Women with breast cancer exhibit complex changes in the intensity of personality traits significantly deplete their daily functioning.