Quality of Life of Cervical Cancer Survivors in Bangladeshi Women

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer remains a major public health concern in Bangladesh, with survivorship increasingly highlighting the importance of quality of life (QoL) beyond clinical outcomes. Aim of the study: To assess the quality of life of cervical cancer survivors in Bangladeshi women and identify associated sociodemographic and clinical factors. Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional study was conducted over 6 months at a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh, including 120 cervical cancer survivors selected through purposive sampling. Eligible women aged ≥18 years who had completed primary treatment were included. QoL was evaluated using validated Bangla versions of EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-CX24 questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, applying independent sample t-tests, with p≤0.05 considered significant. Result: The mean global health status score was 62.4±18.2. Functional domains showed moderate scores, including physical functioning (68.7±17.5) and emotional functioning (58.1±20.4). High symptom burdens were observed for fatigue (42.6±21.3), insomnia (44.1±23.6), and financial difficulties (55.8±24.7). Sexual activity (34.5±22.6) and sexual enjoyment (38.2±21.7) were notably reduced. Better QoL was significantly associated with younger age (66.8±17.4, p=0.021), urban residence (65.9±16.8, p=0.034), early-stage disease (69.3±15.7, p<0.001), non-chemoradiotherapy treatment (70.1±14.9, p=0.012), and longer post-treatment duration (66.9±18.1, p=0.003). Conclusion: Cervical cancer survivors in Bangladesh experience moderate QoL with significant psychosocial and symptom-related challenges. Targeted survivorship interventions are essential to enhance long-term outcomes.