Quality of life of patients submitted to radical radiochemotherapy for cervical cancer: Comparison of outcomes between 2D and 3D image guided brachytherapy
To assess QoL in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer treated with radical radiochemotherapy combined with either 2D or 3D brachytherapy, and to compare outcomes between both techniques. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from January 2019 to March 2020. EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-CX24 questionnaires were applied at five time points: before treatment, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's chi-square, Fisher's exact test and Bonferroni test were used (p ≤ 0.05). Seventy six out of 82 patients completed all the assessments. The overall mean global health status significantly improved from 63.7 to 72.0 (p = 0.019), with no significant difference between the 2D and 3D brachytherapy groups (69.8 vs. 67.8; p = 0.672). All functional domains of the QLQ-C30 improved over time, including financial difficulties, regardless of the brachytherapy technique. Sexual activity increased significantly (2.5-32.4, p < 0.0001), but also did sexual worry, menopausal symptoms, reduced sexual enjoyment, and vaginal dysfunction. Overall improvement in global health and functioning were observed in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer, regardless of the brachytherapy technique used. Despite improved sexual activity, aspects of sexual dysfunction increased, highlighting the need for comprehensive, multidisciplinary care that includes sexual and psychological support, emphasizing the need for individualized care.