Clinicopathological Correlates And Quality Of Life Implication Of Chemotherapy Induced Alopecia In Patients Treated for Breast Cancer

Abstract

Background: Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is a distressing side effect of chemotherapy that significantly affects quality of life (QoL) and social image, particularly in cultural contexts such as Ghana, where hair carries deep symbolic meaning. This study explored the severity, determinants, QoL impact, and coping mechanisms of CIA among breast cancer patients.
Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed involving 150 adult female breast cancer patients who received chemotherapy in 2024 at a major Ghanaian oncology center. Baseline characteristics were extracted from medical records. QoL was assessed using the researcher-administered Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Breast (FACT-B) questionnaire before the first chemotherapy cycle and two weeks post-completion. CIA severity was patient-reported and graded using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE v5.0).
Results: Severe Grade II CIA was observed in 83.3% (n=125) of participants. The most frequently prescribed regimen was Adriamycin-Cyclophosphamide followed by Paclitaxel (66%), a taxane-based therapy. No significant association was found between chemotherapy regimen or age and alopecia severity. QoL analysis revealed a significant decline in functional well-being (13.1 to 12.0, p<0.001). Coping strategies were dominated by wigs combined with support groups, used by 98% of patients.
Conclusion: CIA imposes substantial physical and psychological burdens. The study highlights the need for integrated support services to address these impacts. Future research should examine the influence of chemotherapy dosing and adopt longitudinal approaches to survivorship care to optimize patient outcomes and inform national guidelines.