Association of a comprehensive oncology unit with improvements in quality of life, functioning, and symptom burden among breast cancer survivors

Abstract: Context: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy among women. Healthy lifestyle habits are associated with better quality of life (QoL), improved outcomes, survival, and prevention of secondary tumors. Aims: This pilot study evaluated the association of a comprehensive oncology unit (COU) with improvements in QoL among women with early-stage BC during follow-up, addressing the limited evidence on integrative care models and patient-reported outcomes. Settings and Design: Observational, repeated-measures study with 1-year prospective follow-up at a COU in a tertiary hospital in southern Spain. Recruitment occurred in 2022. Subjects and Methods: Data were collected at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months using validated questionnaires (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 items/BR23, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy, and Mini Nutritional Assessment) to assess QoL, functional domains, and nutritional status. Participants were women with early-stage BC in follow-up who had attended the Unit’s programs. Statistical Analysis Used: Changes from baseline were analyzed using paired t -tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and longitudinal trends with repeated-measures ANOVA or Friedman tests as appropriate. Multivariable regression models identified predictors of QoL improvement. Analyses were performed using SPSS v24.0, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Results: Of 237 recruited patients, 202 completed the study. Global QoL improved by a mean of +5.69 points at 12 months. Significant improvements were observed in functioning domains and body image, with reductions in fatigue, pain, and dyspnea. Conclusions: Participation in a COU was associated with significant improvements in QoL, supporting the role of integrative care models in optimizing survivorship outcomes in routine clinical practice.