Quality of life in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma in a South African population: what do patients think?

Abstract

Background: Quality of life studies have received increasing interest in the last few years, especially amongst oncology patients. Patients with differentiated thyroid cancer usually have a good prognosis. Traditionally treatment outcomes have been solely based on survival time. Diagnosis and treatment have a strong effect on QOL of these patients.

Materials and methods: Patients attending the thyroid cancer clinic were asked to complete a QOL questionnaire with questions rated using a ten-point scale. Data was collected over a period of three months and including 100 participants.

Results: About half the respondents reported no changes to their physical and psychological well-being and self-worth, no distress of illness, during treatment or any social concerns. Females aged 42-52 years of age reported feelings of usefulness, a change in their happiness level, less control over their lives and low self-worth.

Conclusion: Overall the QOL after treatment can be considered good for most patients. Those at risk for poorer QOL outcome are females aged 42-52 years of age and those who have received high doses of RAI (>150mCi). Doctors have a duty to understand and manage the emotional impact of the cancer diagnosis on the patient.