Quality of life and ability to work in ovarian cancer patients in Slovakia

 Ján Bielik, Branislav Bystricky, Karolina Hoffmannova, Vladimir Melus, Iveta Matisakova

Abstract:

The aim of this paper was to find out the association of relevant factors on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among ovarian cancer patients and their ability to work. Analyzed data were prospectively collected on 123 ovarian cancer patients enrolled across multiple oncology practices in Slovakia. We examined knowledge about the disease, negative perceptions related to health care, ability to work and social and economic ranking. HRQOL measurements included quality of life based on a numeric scale (1-worst, 10-best) and selected aspects from QoL-Ov28 questionnaire. We have used non-parametric Friedman and Dunne pairwise comparison tests to detect differences in HRQOL and the ability to work. Spearman correlation was used to measure the strength of association between variables. With hindsight, patients identified first signs of disease 3.6 months prior to diagnosis, with median duration of disease being 3.1 years. HRQOL was significantly different at various points during cancer journey; between current state and at diagnosis (4.19), between current state and at time without cancer or at time in full health (8.94, 9.52 respectively). Similarly, significant differences were noted in patients’ current work ability (WA) compared to WA at diagnosis, or at time without cancer or in full health (4.2, 9.07, 9.58). The highest correlation of HRQOL was found in relation to current ability to work (r = 0.87) and in impact of cancer treatment (r = 0.66). Medium correlation was noted with visits to oncology clinics, knowledge about cancer, salary, future expectations or perceived quality of life of relatives (r < 0.51). Low correlation (r < 0.3) was found with other aspects related to healthcare (nursing care, general practitioner appointments) or demographics (age, number of children) and others. Patients were willing to pay monthly for curative treatment €191.84 from an average monthly salary €470.84 (41%). Ovarian cancer diagnosis has a significant impact on HRQOL and WA and both are positively highly correlated. Ovarian cancer patients are willing to give significant share of their monthly salary for treatment leading to cure.