ESTRO 2025 - Abstract Book

S4214

RTT - Patient experience and quality of life

ESTRO 2025

of our patients who received chemotherapy, only 40% of patients felt adequately supported during treatment and 18% have reported a decrease in physical intimacy. An overall decline in sexual frequency was noted by most of our patients (69%). Hormone therapy was responsible for only 28% of this decline. Regarding the type of surgery, Patients underwent breast-sparing surgery and mastectomy in 41% and 59% of cases, respectively. Communication played a key role in marital satisfaction, with 37% of patients reporting proportional improvements. Factors such as age, number of children, and years of marriage were positively correlated with a 30% increase in satisfaction. Furthermore, future projects and expectations contributed 42%, physical intimacy 33%, and communication 26% to overall marital contentment. Notably, the divorce rate post-diagnosis was 4%, highlighting the emotional and relational challenges of the illness. Conclusion: Breast cancer and its treatments profoundly impact marital life, emphasizing the critical role of spousal support, communication, and relational stability in maintaining marital satisfaction during this challenging journey.

Keywords: breast cancer, spouse behaviour