INFLUENCE OF RADIOTHERAPY ON PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH IN BREAST-CANCER PATIENTS AFTER BREAST-CONSERVING SURGERY

Background: The purpose of this study was the evaluation of the radiot herapy-induced psychological distress of patients and changes in psych ological health during radiotherapy (RT). Patients and Methods: 53 bre ast cancer patients undergoing irradiation after breast conserving sur gery participated in this study. In the beginning and at the end of ra diotherapy they answered a questionnaire asking for coping strategies, psychological distress with regard to irradiation and influence of su rroundings. Results: 92% stated to be well informed about radiotherapy . Coping strategies in order of importance: Talking to physician (94%) or partner (84%), 81% try to distract themselves, 56% repress thought s about radiotherapy. 40% were anxious about RT and expected side effe cts (54%). At the end of therapy anxiety was reduced: 77% were anxious only initially or never. Conclusions: Patients are very interested in information about RT. Their experience of radiotherapy was more posit ive than initially expected. The relation to medical staff plays art i mportant part in the reduction of irradiation-related psychological di stress.