Zeynep Deveci
Dokuz Eylul University, Turkey
Title: Examination of cognitive functions in women with breast cancer related lymphedema: A preliminary report
Biography
Biography: Zeynep Deveci
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer patients experience problems related to cognitive disorders such as forgetfulness, difficulty in concentrating, slowing down in thinking process.
Aim: The study is aimed explore cognitive functions in patients with breast cancer related lymphedema.
Methods: The study was a preliminary report of descriptive type. Study included 40 patients with breast cancer related lymphedema. The data has been collected by using patient identification form, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, FACT-Cognitive Function Scale (FACT-cog) and Blessed Orientation Memory Concentration Test (BOMC) in assessing cognitive function, Sexual Adaptation and Body Image Scale (SABIS) in assessing sexuality. Number, percentage, mean, and Mann Whitney U analyzes used in evaluation of the data.
Results: The average age of the patients is 54, 55.90% married, 39.10% primary school graduates, 59.10% housewives. 95% of the patients are in menopause, 68% received breast conserving surgery, 90% had lymph node dissection, the average number of chemotherapy cures was 8, and most patients were treated by AC+paclitaxel as chemotherapeutics. Perceived cognitive impairment subscale of FACT-Cog average score was 17.30±14.31, and perceived cognitive abilities subscale average score was 18.82±3.47. The average BOMC score was 7.34±6.16. The mean score of the sexual function subscale of SABIS is -4.05±2.77. It was found that cognitive function was lower at patients had anxiety and depression (p<0.05).
Conclusions: It is thought that results contribute to health professionals about educating patients. if the anxiety and depression score of the patient is high, the education given should be repeated at regular intervals and the appropriate education method should be used for the patient.