Stress in the quality of life of women with breast cancer at different levels of physical activity

Abstract

This study analysed the relationship between the level of stress and the quality of life of women with breast cancer, considering different levels of physical activity. The participants were 54 women between 20 and 59 years old who were undergoing treatment or completed treatment within 24 months from the Centre for Integrative Health in the city of Rio de Janeiro/RJ. Physical activity level, stress level and quality of life were evaluated. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics, with tests to assess the parametric qualities of the variables, in addition to tests for comparing means and association. The participants showed a level of physical activity between very active and inactive, where half of the women interviewed showed physical inactivity. Regarding the level of stress, the women obtained an average on the scale of 19,0±3,6 e 18,5±4,0 regardless of physical activity level. Stress and quality of life scores were not affected by physical activity level. Conclusion: Women with breast cancer had high stress symptoms, a frequent characteristic as a result of the pathology symptoms and exposure to treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to incorporate changes in lifestyle with the aim of reducing stress and, consequently, improving quality of life.