Quality of life in cancer patients: integrative review of Latin American literature

Abstract

doi: 10.5216/ree.v12i3.6957

The subjective and multidimensional construct Quality of Life (QoL) is consolidated among researchers in the 90s. Identify ,to measure and assess the areas affected by the disease has been the proposal of several studies of qualitative and quantitative designs. The aims of this study were to characterize the scientific literature on QoL in Latin Adult cancer patients, to identify aspects of QoL in this population, to identify the instruments used to evaluate QoL. One of the methodological strategies to achieve the evidence-based practice is an integrative review. The sample resulted in 25 studies, which had a high concentration of studies on QoL in the different sub-types of head and neck cancer (32%), that makes us reflect on the numerous side and secondary effects of treatment such as mutilation, functional and esthetic changes that interfere with daily activities of patients. We found a prevalence of the EORTC QLQ-C30 instrument, since it explores specific symptoms of cancer. It is considered that these studies did not show strong evidence for clinical application. In response to the evidence-based practice, we conclude the importance in the development of studies of effective interventions to support nursing practice and ensure quality care and therefore improve QoL for cancer patients.

Descriptors: Neoplasms; Quality of life; Oncologic Nursing.