Prevalence and factors associated with the occurrence of pathological fractures and their impact on the overall survival of patients with bone metastases under palliative care.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the prevalence and factors associated with the occurrence of pathological fractures and their impact on the overall survival of patients with bone metastases under palliative care. METHODS: An observational retrospective cohort assessment concerning both male and female patients with cancer presenting with bone metastases referred to a palliative care unit. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained before and after care unit referral. Patients were followed up until death or the last follow-up (4 years after referral). Logistic regression models and survival curves employing a log-rank test were applied. RESULTS: A total of 348 patients were included in the study. Most were <65 years (65%) and female (62%), and the most frequent primary tumour site was the breast (40%). The prevalence of pathological fractures was 28%, more frequent in the axial skeleton (49%), with no association with overall patient survival (p=0.348). Patients with breast cancer exhibited a 2.96-fold higher chance (95% CI: 1.80 to 4.86) of developing a fracture compared with other tumours, and not receiving previous radiotherapy increased the chances of fracture occurrence by 5.60-fold (95% CI: 2.46 to 12.77). CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of pathological fractures was observed. Presenting with breast cancer and not having undergone previous radiotherapy increase the chances of fracture occurrence, although this is not associated with overall survival in patients under palliative care.

Impacto de Marcadores Inflamatórios no Prognóstico de Pacientes Oncológicos Internados no Instituto Nacional de Câncer com SARS-CoV-2 na Primeira Onda da Pandemia no Brasil / Impact of Inflammatory Markers on the Prognosis of Patients with Cancer Admitted to the National Cancer Institute with SARS-CoV-2 in the First Wave of the Pandemic in Brazil / Impacto de los Marcadores Inflamatorios en el Pronóstico de Pacientes con Cáncer Ingresados en el Instituto Nacional del Cáncer con SARS-CoV-2 en la Primera Ola de la Pandemia en el Brasil

Introdução: O intenso processo inflamatório desencadeado pela covid-19 tem sido apontado por diversos autores. Objetivo: Avaliar o impacto de marcadores inflamatórios no prognóstico de pacientes com tumores sólidos internados com SARS-CoV-2/covid-19 na primeira onda da pandemia no Brasil. Método: Estudo de coorte com pacientes maiores de 18 anos com câncer, internados em um centro público de referência no tratamento oncológico, com SARS-CoV-2/covid-19, no período de março a setembro de 2020. Os seguintes marcadores inflamatórios foram analisados: razão neutrófilo-linfócito (RNL), derivação da razão neutrófilo-linfócito (dRNL) e razão plaqueta-linfócito (RPL). Foi considerado desfecho deste estudo a ocorrência de óbito durante a internação hospitalar. A associação entre as variáveis independentes e o desfecho foi analisada por meio de regressão logística univariada e múltipla. Resultados: Dos 185 pacientes, a maioria apresentava idade < 65 anos (61,1%), performance status (PS) ≥ 2 (82,4%) e estavam em tratamento oncológico (80,0%). O câncer de mama foi o tumor mais frequente (26,5%). Para a maior parte dos casos, o tempo de internação foi ≥ 5 dias (59,5%) e ocorreu em unidade de tratamento intensivo (84,3%). Durante a internação, 86 (46,5%) pacientes evoluíram para óbito. Na análise ajustada, apenas a RNL elevada (≥ 4,44) esteve associada ao risco de morrer (OR 3,54; IC 95%; 1,68 - 7,46; p = 0,001). Conclusão: A RNL se mostrou um importante marcador prognóstico, e níveis acima do seu valor mediano estiveram relacionados ao aumento do risco de morte durante a internação hospitalar

Introduction: The intense inflammatory process triggered by COVID-19 has been pointed out by several authors. Objective: To evaluate the impact of inflammatory markers on the prognosis of patients with solid tumors hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 in the first wave of the pandemic in Brazil. Method: A cohort study of patients >18 years old with cancer, hospitalized at a public cancer treatment reference center, with SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 from March to September 2020. The following inflammatory markers were analyzed: neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derivation of the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (dNLR) and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR). The outcome of this study was death during hospitalization. The association between the independent variables and the outcome was analyzed using univariate and multiple logistic regression. Results: Of the 185 patients, most were aged < 65 years (61.1%), had performance status (PS) ≥ 2 (82.4%) and were in cancer treatment (80.0%). Breast cancer was the most frequent tumor (26.5%). For the majority of the cases, the length of hospital stay was ≥ 5 days (59.5%) and occurred in the intensive treatment unit (84.3%). During hospitalization, 86 (46.5%) patients progressed to death. In the adjusted analysis only high NLR (≥ 4.44) was associated with the risk of death (OR 3.54; 95% CI; 1.68 - 7.46; p = 0.001). Conclusion: NLR proved to be an important prognostic marker, and levels above its median value were related to an increased risk of death during hospitalization

Introducción: El papel de la inflamación desencadenada por la COVID-19 ha sido señalado por varios autores. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto de los marcadores inflamatorios en el pronóstico de pacientes con tumores sólidos hospitalizados por SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 en la primera ola de la pandemia en el Brasil. Método: Estudio de cohorte con pacientes >18 años con cáncer, ingresados en un centro público de referencia en el tratamiento del cáncer, con SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 de marzo a septiembre de 2020. Se evaluaron los siguientes marcadores inflamatorios: relación neutrófilos-linfocitos (RNL), derivación de la relación neutrófilos-linfocitos (dRNL) y relación plaquetas-linfocitos (RPL). Se consideró como desenlace de este estudio la ocurrencia de muerte durante la hospitalización. La asociación entre las variables independientes y el desenlace se analizó mediante regresión logística univariada y múltiple. Resultados: De los 185 pacientes hospitalizados, la mayoría tenía una edad < 65 años (61,1%), un performance status (PS) ≥ 2 (82,4%) y estaban en tratamiento oncológico (80,0 %). El cáncer de mama fue el tumor más frecuente (26,5%). Para la mayoría de los casos, el tiempo de hospitalización fue ≥ 5 días (59,5%) y ocurrió en la unidad de tratamiento intensivo (84,3%). Durante la hospitalización, 86 (46,5%) pacientes terminaron falleciendo. En el análisis ajustado, solo una RNL alta (≥ 4,44) se asoció con el riesgo de muerte (OR 3,54; IC 95%; 1,68 - 7,46; p = 0,001). Conclusión: La RNL demostró ser un importante marcador pronóstico, y los niveles por encima de su valor medio se relacionaron con un mayor riesgo de muerte durante la hospitalización

Influence of Age on Health-Related Quality of Life of Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer / Influência da Idade na Qualidade de Vida Relacionada à Saúde de Mulheres Diagnosticadas com Câncer de Mama / Influencia de la Edad en la Calidad de Vida Relacionada con la Salud de Mujeres Diagnosticadas con Cáncer de Mama

Introduction: Women with breast cancer may have differences in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) at diagnosis by age. Objective: To analyze the influence of age on the HRQoL of women diagnosed with breast cancer. Method: Cross-sectional study was carried out with women diagnosed with breast cancer. HRQoL assessment was performed before starting cancer treatment, using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and its specific breast cancer module (BR-23). Association between age group and HRQoL was determined through multiple linear regression. Results: 961 women were included in the study, with a mean age of 54 (SD±11.7). Women aged ≥50 years displayed better emotional functioning (+7.6 points; p<0.001), and less fatigue (-4.4 points; p=0.014), pain (-4.7 points; p=0.033), nausea and vomiting (-2.3 points; p=0.030) and financial difficulties (-10.3 points; p<0.001) compared to younger women. Concerning the BR-23 module, these women displayed better body image scores (+3.6 points; p=0.029) and future perspective (+12.4 points; p<0.001), and worse sexual functioning (-19.9 points; p<0.001) and sexual enjoyment (-8.9 points; p=0.001), and on the symptom scale, less breast symptoms (-11.6 points; p<0.001) and arm symptoms (-3.5 points; p=0.047). Conclusion: Patients aged ≥50 years exhibited better HRQoL in all QLQ C-30 and BR-23 functioning scales and symptom scales, except for sexual functioning and sexual enjoyment

Introdução: Mulheres com câncer de mama podem apresentar diferenças na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde (QVRS) ao diagnóstico de acordo com a idade. Objetivo: Analisar a influência da idade na QVRS de mulheres com diagnóstico de câncer de mama. Método: Estudo transversal com mulheres diagnosticadas com câncer de mama. A avaliação da QVRS foi realizada antes do início do tratamento oncológico por meio do questionário European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) e seu módulo específico para o câncer de mama (BR-23). A associação entre faixa etária e QVRS foi determinada por meio da regressão linear múltipla. Resultados: Foram incluídas 961 mulheres com média de idade de 54 anos (DP±11,7). Mulheres com idade ≥50 anos apresentaram melhor função emocional (+7,6 pontos; p<0,001), menos fadiga (-4,4 pontos; p=0,014), dor (-4,7 pontos; p=0,033), náuseas e vômitos (-2,3 pontos; p=0,030) e dificuldade financeira (-10,3 pontos; p<0,001) comparadas às mulheres jovens. Em relação ao BR-23, essas mulheres apresentaram melhor escores de imagem corporal (+3,6 pontos; p=0,029) e de perspectiva futura (+12,4 pontos; p<0,001), e piores função sexual (-19,9 pontos; p<0,001) e satisfação sexual (-8,9 pontos; p=0,001); e, na escala de sintomas, menos sintomas na mama (-11,6 pontos; p<0,001) e sintomas no braço (-3,5 pontos; p=0,047). Conclusão: As pacientes com idade ≥50 anos apresentaram melhor QVRS em todos os domínios das escalas de função e escalas de sintomas do QLQ C-30 e BR-23, exceto no que diz respeito à função sexual e à satisfação sexual

Introducción: Las mujeres con cáncer de mama pueden tener diferencias en la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) al momento del diagnóstico según la edad. Objetivo: Analizar la influencia de la edad en la CVRS de mujeres con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama. Método: Estudio transversal con mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer de mama. La evaluación de la CVRS se realizó antes de iniciar el tratamiento oncológico mediante el Cuestionario European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) y su módulo específico para el cáncer de mama (BR-23). La asociación entre el grupo de edad y la CVRS se determinó mediante regresión lineal múltiple. Resultados: Se incluyeron 961 mujeres con una edad media de 54 años (DE±11,7). Las mujeres ≥50 años tuvieron mejor funcionamiento emocional (+7,6 puntos; p<0,001), y menos fatiga (-4,4 puntos; p=0,014), dolor (-4,7 puntos; p=0,033), náuseas y vómitos (-2,3 puntos; p=0,030) y dificultades financieras (-10,31 puntos; p<0,001) en comparación con las mujeres jóvenes. Con respecto al BR-23, estas mujeres presentaron mejores puntajes de imagen corporal (+3,6 puntos; p=0,029) y perspectiva de futuro (+12,4 puntos; p<0,001) y peor función sexual (-19,9 puntos; p<0,001) y satisfacción sexual (-8,9 puntos; p=0,001), y en la escala de síntomas, menos síntomas mamarios (-11,6 puntos; p<0,001) y brazos (-3,5 puntos; p=0,047). Conclusión: Las pacientes con edad ≥50 años tuvieron mejor CVRS en todos los dominios de las escalas de función y síntomas del QLQ C-30 y BR-23, excepto función sexual y satisfacción sexual

Guidelines for the prevention of secondary lymphedema following breast cancer treatment: adhesion and associated factors

Introduction: Lymphedema is the most feared complication that may take place after breast cancer treatment. With treatment progression, doubts have arisen regarding the real benefits of lymphedema prevention care, as well as of patient adherence to guidelines. Objective: In this context, the aim of this study was to assess patient adherence to preventive lymphedema guidelines and the distribution of sociodemographic, clinical, and treatment variables according to adherence to treatment. Methods: A cross­sectional study conducted at the Cancer Hospital III/INCA, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, concerning patients with breast cancer undergoing surgical treatment with an axillary approach. Participants were questioned about assistance care performance, exercise-related care, and limb ipsilateral to surgery care. A descriptive analysis of patient demographic, clinical, treatments, postoperative complications variables, and main outcomes (adherence to the guidelines) was performed through a central tendency measure and data dispersion and frequency measures analyses. Differences between means were assessed using the Student's t-test, while differences between proportions were evaluated using the chi-square test. A significance level of 5% was considered for all assessments. Results: Of the 103 women included in this study, 89.3% adhered to assistance care, 61.2% adhered to limb care, and 42.7% performed exercise-related care. Women undergoing chemotherapy (p = 0.030) and axillary lymphadenectomy (AL) (p = 0.017) exhibited greater adherence to care. Non-white patients (p = 0.048) and those who underwent AL (p = 0.025) adhered to limb care more frequently. Finally, patients displaying lower education levels (p = 0.013) and those who underwent AL (p = 0.009) adhered more frequently to limb exercises. Conclusion: Patients adhered the most to assistance care and limb care compared to exercise practice. Patients undergoing chemotherapy displayed greater adherence to care and non-white patients adhered the most to limb care. Women who underwent AL displayed greater adherence to all types of care and those presenting lower education levels adhered more frequently to exercise guidelines.

Fatores Associados ao Atraso entre o Diagnóstico e o Início do Tratamento de Câncer de Mama: um Estudo de Coorte com 204130 Casos no Brasil / Factors Associated with Delay between Diagnosis and Initiation of Breast Cancer Treatment: a Cohort Study with 204130 Cases in Brazil / Factores Asociados con el Retardo entre el Diagnóstico y el Inicio del Tratamiento del Cáncer de Mama: un Estudio de Cohorte con 204130 Casos en Brasil

Introdução: O câncer de mama é considerado um problema de saúde pública, tendo crescente incidência mundial. Diversos fatores contribuem para o diagnóstico tardio e dificultam o início do tratamento, repercutindo em um pior prognóstico. Objetivos: Analisar o intervalo de tempo entre o diagnóstico e o início do primeiro tratamento oncológico na população brasileira, além de avaliar os fatores associados aos maiores intervalos. Método: Trata-se de um estudo de coorte retrospectivo com 540.529 pacientes cadastrados no Sistema de Registros Hospitalares de Câncer (SisRHC)no período de 2000 a 2017. Utilizou-se como desfecho o intervalo de tempo entre o diagnóstico e o início do primeiro tratamento oncológico, considerando-se como atraso o intervalo maior do que 60 dias. Para análise das variáveis, foram realizadas análise descritiva e regressão logística simples (IC95%; p<0,05). Resultados: Foram analisados 204.130 casos que apresentaram média de idade de 55,8 anos (±13,24), sendo predominantemente do sexo feminino (99,1%), 55,1% eram da Região Sudeste e 71,4% residiam em cidades não capitais. A mediana do intervalo de tempo entre o diagnóstico e o início do primeiro tratamento oncológico foi de 63 dias (variação interquartil = 36-109). As variáveis sociodemográficas, clínicas e relacionadas ao tratamento mostraram impacto no intervalo de tempo, com exceção da variável sexo. Conclusão: O tempo entre o diagnóstico e o início do primeiro tratamento oncológico foi elevado. Fatores sociodemográficos, clínicos e relacionados ao tratamento influenciam nos intervalos de tempo. Identificá-los precocemente pode contribuir para o direcionamento de ações a esses grupos mais vulneráveis ao atraso.

Breast cancer is considered a public health problem with an increasing incidence worldwide. Several factors contribute to late diagnosis and hinder the initiation of the treatment, resulting in a worse prognosis. Objectives:To analyze the time interval between diagnosis and the beginning of the first oncologic treatment in the Brazilian population, in addition to assessing the factors associated with the longest time intervals. Method: Retrospective cohort study with 540,529 patients registered in the Hospital Cancer Registry System (SisRHC) from 2000 to 2017. The outcome was the time between diagnosis and the beginning of the first oncologic treatment, considering the interval greater than 60 days as delay. Descriptive analysis and simple logistic regression were performed (95% CI; p <0.05) to analyze the variables. Results: 204,130 cases were analyzed, mean age of 55.8 years (± 13.24), predominantly females (99.1%), 55.1% were from the southeast region and 71% lived in non-capital cities. The median of the time interval between diagnosis and the beginning of the first oncologic treatment was 63 days (interquartile range = 36-109). Sociodemographic, clinical and treatment-related variables affect the time interval, except the gender variable. Conclusion: The time between diagnosis and the beginning of the first oncologic treatment was high. Sociodemographic, clinical and treatment-related factors influence time intervals. Their early identification can contribute to guide the actions toward these most vulnerable groups to delay.

Introducción: El cáncer de mama se considera un problema de salud pública con una incidencia mundial creciente. Varios factores contribuyen al diagnóstico tardío y dificultan el inicio del tratamiento, resultando en un peor pronóstico. Objetivos:Analizar el intervalo de tiempo entre el diagnóstico y el comienzo del primer tratamiento oncologico en la población brasileña, además de evaluar los factores asociados con los intervalos de tiempo más largos. Método: Este es un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo con 540.529 pacientes registrados en el Hospital Cancer Registry System (SisRHC) desde 2000 hasta 2017. El resultado fue el intervalo de tiempo entre el diagnóstico y el comienzo del primer tratamiento oncologico, considerando como retraso el intervalo superior a 60 días. Para el análisis de las variables, se realizó un análisis descriptivo y una regresión logística simple (IC 95%; p <0,05). Resultados: Se analizaron 204,130 casos, con una edad media de 55,8 años (±13,24), predominantemente mujeres (99,1%), 55,1% de la región sureste y 71,4% residentes en ciudades no capitales.La mediana del intervalo de tiempo entre el diagnóstico y el comienzo del primer tratamiento contra el cáncer fue de 63 días (rango intercuartil = 36-109). Las variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y relacionadas con el tratamiento tuvieron un impacto en el intervalo de tiempo, con la excepción de la variable de género. Conclusión: El intervalo de tiempo promedio entre el diagnóstico y el comienzo del primer tratamiento oncologico fue alto. Además, se observó que los factores sociodemográficos, clínicos y relacionados con el tratamiento influyen en los intervalos de tiempo, por lo que identificarlos temprano puede contribuir a acciones directas para estos grupos más vulnerables al retraso.

Health-related quality of life in women with cervical cancer / Qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde em mulheres com câncer do colo do útero

Abstract Objective To analyze the factors associated with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in women with cervical cancer (CC) in a single center in Rio de Janeiro, state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Methods A cross-sectional study in women with a diagnosis of CC followed-up in the gynecology outpatient clinic of the Hospital do Câncer II (HCII, in the Portuguese acronym) of the Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA, in the Portuguese acronym). The data were collected from March to August 2015. Women with palliative care, communication/cognition difficulty, undergoing simultaneous treatment for other types of cancer, or undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy were excluded. For the evaluation of the HRQoL, a specific questionnaire for women with CC was used (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Cervix Cancer [FACT-Cx]). The total score of the questionnaire ranges from 0 to 168, with higher scores indicating a better HRQoL. Results A total of 115 women were included in the present study, with a mean age of 52.64 years old (standard deviation [SD] = 12.13). The domains of emotional (16.61; SD = 4.55) and functional well-being (17.63; SD = 6.15) were those which presented the worst scores. The factors that had an association with better HRQoL in women with CC were having a current occupation, a longer time since the treatment and diagnosis, and women who had undergone hysterectomy. Conclusion Considering the domains of HRQoL of the women treated for cervical cancer, a better score was observed in the domains of physical and social/family wellbeing. For most domains, better scores were found between those with a current occupation, with a longer time after the diagnosis and treatment, and among those who had undergone a hysterectomy.

Resumo Objetivo Analisar os fatores associados à qualidade de vida em mulheres com câncer de colo do útero tratadas em um hospital de referência no Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil. Métodos Estudo transversal em mulheres com diagnóstico de câncer do colo do útero emseguimento ambulatorial no Hospital de Câncer II (HCII) do Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA). Os dados foram coletados no período de março a agosto de 2015. Foram excluídas as mulheres em cuidados paliativos, comdificuldade de comunicação/cognição, que estavam em tratamento simultâneo para outros tipos de câncer, ou em quimioterapia e/ou radioterapia. Para a avaliação da qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde, foi utilizado um questionário específico para mulheres com câncer de colo do útero (Avaliação Funcional da Terapia do Câncer - Câncer Cervical (FACT-Cx, na sigla em inglês). O escore total do questionário varia de 0 a 168, com escores mais altos indicando melhor qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde. Resultados Foram incluídas 115 mulheres com uma média de idade de 52,64 anos (desvio padrão [DP] = 12,13). Os domínios de questões emocionais (16,61; DP = 4,55) e de bem-estar funcional (17,63; DP = 6,15) foram os que apresentaram os piores escores. Os fatores que tiveram associação com melhor qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde em mulheres com câncer de colo do útero foram ocupação atual, maior tempo após o tratamento e diagnóstico, e mulheres que haviamsido submetidas a histerectomia. Conclusão Considerando os domínios da qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde de mulheres tratadas para câncer do colo do útero, foi observado melhor escore nos domínios de bem-estar físico e social. Para amaioria dos domínios, osmelhores escores foram observados entre aquelas com ocupação atual, com mais tempo após o diagnóstico e tratamento, além daquelas que se submeteram a histerectomia.

Qualidade de Vida Relacionada à Saúde e Risco de Comorbidade Cardiovascular ao Diagnóstico de Câncer de Mama / Health-Related Quality of Life and Cardiovascular Comorbidity Risk for Breast Cancer Diagnosis / Calidad de Vida Relacionada con la Salud y Riesgo de Comorbilidad Cardiovascular al Diagnóstico de Cáncer de Mama

INTRODUÇÃO: A literatura sugere que mulheres com doenças cardiovasculares apresentam pior qualidade de vida ao diagnóstico de câncer de mama. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação entre a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde (QVRS) e as doenças cardiovasculares ao diagnóstico de câncer de mama. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal com mulheres diagnosticadas com câncer de mama. A QVRS foi avaliada pelos questionários European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnarie (EORTC QLQ-C30) and Breast Câncer Module (QLQ-BR23) e a comorbidade por meio da Cumulative Illness Rating Scale Geriatric (CIRS-G). Foram calculadas as diferenças entre as médias dos escores de QVRS e comorbidade. A associação foi avaliada por regressão logística múltipla. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídas 953 mulheres com média de idade de 54 anos (DP±11,7). Apresentavam alguma comorbidade ao diagnóstico de câncer de mama 84,1% das mulheres. O sistema coração foi afetado em 10,8% e o sistema vascular em 48,2%. Após ajuste, observou-se associação entre os escores das funções física e sexual e problemas nos sistemas coração e vascular. Foi ainda observada associação entre os piores escores de dor e dispneia e o sistema coração. Em relação à presença de doenças no sistema vascular, este esteve associado à melhor satisfação sexual, melhor perspectiva futura e piores sintomas na mama. CONCLUSÃO: A QVRS se mostrou associada a doenças cardiovasculares em pacientes com câncer de mama em relação à função física, sexual, satisfação sexual, a perspectivas futuras e às escalas de sintomas (dor, dispneia e sintomas na mama).

INTRODUCTION: The literature suggests that women with cardiovascular diseases have worse quality of life when diagnosed with breast cancer. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and cardiovascular disease at diagnosis of breast cancer. METHOD: Cross-sectional study with women diagnosed with breast cancer. HRQoL was assessed by the questionnaires of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnarie (EORTC QLQ-C30) and Breast Cancer Module (QLQ-BR23) and comorbidity was assessed by the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale Geriatric (CIRS-G). It were calculated the differences between mean HRQoL values and comorbidity. Logistic multiple regression was used to evaluate the association. RESULTS: 953 women with a mean age of 54 years (SD±11.7) were included. Comorbidity was presented at diagnosis of breast cancer in 84.1% of the women. The heart system was affected in 10.8% and the vascular system in 48.2%. After adjustment, an association between physical and sexual function scores and heart and vascular system problems was observed. An association between worse pain and dyspnea scores and the heart system was also noticed. Regarding the presence of diseases in the vascular system, this was associated with better sexual satisfaction, better future outcome and worse breast symptoms. CONCLUSION: HRQoL was associated with cardiovascular disease in breast cancer patients, in relation to physical and sexual function, sexual satisfaction, future perspectives and symptom scales (pain, dyspnea and breast symptoms).

INTRODUCCIÓN: La literatura sugiere que las mujeres con enfermedad cardiovascular tienen una peor calidad de vida cuando se les diagnostica cáncer de la mama. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la asociación entre la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) y la enfermedad cardiovascular en el diagnóstico de cáncer de mama. MÉTODO: Estudio transversal con mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer de mama. La CVRS se evaluó mediante los cuestionarios European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnarie (EORTC QLQ-C30) and Breast Câncer Module (QLQ-BR23) y la comorbilidad se evaluó mediante Cumulative Illness Rating Scale Geriatric (CIRS-G). Se calcularon las diferencias entre las puntuaciones medias de CVRS y la comorbilidad. La asociación se evaluó mediante regresión logística múltiple. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 953 mujeres con una edad media de 54 años (DP±11,7). Algunas tenían comorbilidad en el diagnóstico de cáncer de mama 84,1% de las mujeres. El sistema cardíaco se vio afectado en 10,8% y el sistema vascular en 48,2%. Después del ajuste, se observó una asociación entre las puntuaciones de la función física y sexual y los problemas del corazón y del sistema vascular. También se observó una asociación entre puntajes de dolor y disnea peores y el sistema cardíaco. Con respecto a la presencia de enfermedades en el sistema vascular, esto se asoció con una mejor satisfacción sexual, una mejor perspectiva futura y peores síntomas mamarios. CONCLUSIÓN: La CVRS se asoció con la enfermedad cardiovascular en pacientes con cáncer de mama, con respecto a la función física, la función sexual, la satisfacción sexual, las perspectivas futuras y las escalas de síntomas (dolor, disnea y síntomas de mama).

Men Have a Higher Incidence of Seroma after Breast Cancer Surgery

Background and Objectives: Male breast cancer (MBC) is rare. While surgical treatment may result in several complications in women, little is known about how it affects men. The objective of this study was to compare the incidence of postoperative wound complications between men and women after breast cancer surgery. Methods: This cohort study included all male patients enrolled for breast cancer surgical treatment at the Brazilian National Cancer Institute, between 1999 and 2013. Each was matched with three female breast cancer patients. Parameters analyzed were necrosis, seroma and infection. Odds ratios (OR) were generated and statistical significance was considered at p<0.05. Results: We included in this study 71 men and 213 women with an average age of 63.5 (±12.0). The incidences of complications in men and women were: necrosis, 32.8% and 37.8% (p=0.477); seroma, 80.6% and 59.4% (p=0.003); and surgical site infection, 14.8% and 18.2% (p=0.54). After adjustment, men had a 3 times greater risk of developing seroma compared to women (OR=3.0; IC95%=1.4-6.4; p=0.004). No statistically significant differences was detected in the incidences of wound infection and necrosis. Conclusion: Men have a greater risk of developing seroma after surgery for breast cancer than women, whereas infection and necrosis occur at similar frequencies in both genders.

Impact of Treatment Type on Overall Survival in ElderlyBrazilian Women with Breast Cancer

Objective: To analyze the survival of elderly patients with breast cancer according to the type of treatment used. Methods: A cohort study of women aged 80 or over with breast cancer registered with the Brazilian National Cancer Institute (Instituto Nacional do Câncer - INCA) between 2008 and 2009 was conducted. Prognosis was analyzed according to the cancer treatment performed: surgery, radiotherapy, or hormone therapy. Analysis of the overall 5-year survival rate was performed using the Kaplan - Meier method, and comparisons of curves were undertaken using the log-rank test. For multiple regression analysis, Cox regression was used, adjusting for age and clinical stage, considering values of p < 0.05 as significant. Data were all analyzed using the statistical package SPSS version 20. Results: 70 women with a mean age of 84.0 ± 3.7 years at diagnosis participated in the study. The median follow-up time was 37.1 months (range 0.5­75.5), and 31 deaths (44.3%) occurred during this time. The median survival time was 51.2 months (95% CI, 44.9­57.4), higher in those who underwent surgery (p = 0.012) and those who had hormone therapy (p=0.001). Treatment with surgery reduced the risk of death by 61.7% (HR 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1­0.6; p = 0.001) when adjusted for clinical stage and age at diagnosis. However, there was no significant benefit from radiotherapy (HR 1.2; 95% CI, 0.5­2.5; p = 0.694). Conclusion: Treatment with surgery and hormone therapy increased the survival of our Brazilian patients with breast cancer aged 80 or over.

Determinants of advanced stage presentation of breast cancer in 87,969 Brazilian women.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is commonly diagnosed at an advanced stage in Brazil. AIM: Analyze the determinants of advanced staging in Brazilian women with breast cancer. METHODS: Crosssectional study, including women diagnosed with breast cancer in Brazil, between 2000 and 2009. RESULTS: A total of 59,317 women were included, 53.5% being classified as advanced stage (≥IIB). Younger age (18 to 49 years old) (OR=1.61 95% CI 1.51 to 1.72) or between 40 and 49 years old (OR=1.08 95% CI 1.03 to 1.14), having low educational level (OR=1.53 95% CI 1.48 to 1.58), living in less developed geographical regions (OR=1.27 95% CI 1.21 to 1.33), having invasive ductal carcinoma (OR=2.70 95% CI 2.56 to 2.84) and invasive lobular carcinoma (OR=2.63 95% CI 2.42 to 2.86) were associated with advanced breast cancer. CONCLUSION: We conclude that future interventions should focus on these high risk groups.

[Determinants of the time between breast cancer diagnosis and initiation of treatment in Brazilian women]. / Análise dos determinantes que influenciam o tempo para o início do tratamento de mulheres com câncer de mama no Brasil.

This study aimed to analyze the time elapsed between breast cancer diagnosis and initiation of treatment in woman treated from 2000 to 2011 in the Brazilian public health system and to identify factors associated with delayed onset of treatment. This retrospective cohort study included 137,593 women diagnosed in 239 hospitals in Brazil from 2000 to 2011. In 63.1% of cases the time between diagnosis and treatment was 60 days. Delayed treatment was associated with nonwhite skin color (OR = 1.18; 95%CI: 1.13-1.23), single marital status (OR = 1.05; 95%CI: 1.01-1.09), less than eight years of schooling (OR = 1.13; 95%CI: 1.08-1.18), early-stage disease (OR = 1.27; 95%CI: 1.22-1.32), treatment from 2006 to 2011 (OR = 1.54; 95%CI: 1.47-1.60), and patients in the public health system (OR = 1.19; 95%CI: 1.13-1.25). Stratified analysis showed variability of factors between regions of Brazil. The identification of factors associated with delayed initiation of breast cancer treatment can support the development of interventions targeted to specific population groups.

Análise dos determinantes que influenciam o tempo para o início do tratamento de mulheres com câncer de mama no Brasil / Determinants of the time between breast cancer diagnosis and initiation of treatment in Brazilian women / Análisis de los determinantes que influyen en el tiempo para el inicio del tratamiento en mujeres con cáncer de mama en Brasil

Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar o intervalo de tempo entre o diagnóstico e o início do tratamento do câncer de mama em mulheres e seus determinantes. Foi realizado um estudo de coorte retrospectiva com 137.593 mulheres diagnosticadas em 239 unidades hospitalares do Brasil entre 2000 a 2011. Em 63,1% dos casos, o intervalo entre o diagnóstico e o tratamento foi de até 60 dias. No país, as mulheres mais suscetíveis ao atraso foram não brancas (OR = 1,18; IC95%: 1,13-1,23), sem companheiro (OR = 1,05; IC95%: 1,01-1,09), com menos de oito anos de estudo (OR = 1,13; IC95%: 1,08-1,18), com doença em estadiamento inicial (OR = 1,27; IC95%: 1,22-1,32), tratadas de 2006 a 2011 (OR = 1,54; IC95%: 1,47-1,60) e provenientes do sistema público de saúde (OR = 1,19; IC95%: 1,13-1,25). Na análise estratificada foi observada a variabilidade dos fatores entre as regiões do Brasil. A identificação de fatores associados à demora no início do tratamento poderá possibilitar a elaboração de propostas de intervenções destinadas a grupos populacionais específicos.

This study aimed to analyze the time elapsed between breast cancer diagnosis and initiation of treatment in woman treated from 2000 to 2011 in the Brazilian public health system and to identify factors associated with delayed onset of treatment. This retrospective cohort study included 137,593 women diagnosed in 239 hospitals in Brazil from 2000 to 2011. In 63.1% of cases the time between diagnosis and treatment was 60 days. Delayed treatment was associated with nonwhite skin color (OR = 1.18; 95%CI: 1.13-1.23), single marital status (OR = 1.05; 95%CI: 1.01-1.09), less than eight years of schooling (OR = 1.13; 95%CI: 1.08-1.18), early-stage disease (OR = 1.27; 95%CI: 1.22-1.32), treatment from 2006 to 2011 (OR = 1.54; 95%CI: 1.47-1.60), and patients in the public health system (OR = 1.19; 95%CI: 1.13-1.25). Stratified analysis showed variability of factors between regions of Brazil. The identification of factors associated with delayed initiation of breast cancer treatment can support the development of interventions targeted to specific population groups.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar el intervalo de tiempo entre el diagnóstico y el inicio del tratamiento de cáncer de mama en las mujeres y sus determinantes. Este estudio de cohorte retrospectivo, involucró a 137.593 mujeres diagnosticadas, en 239 hospitales, en Brasil de 2000 y 2011. En el 63,1% de los casos, el intervalo entre el diagnóstico y el tratamiento fue de 60 días. Las mujeres más propensas a retrasarlo eran: no blanca (OR = 1,18; IC95%: 1,13-1,23), sin pareja (OR = 1,05; IC95%: 1,01-1,09), con menos de ocho años de educación (OR = 1,13; IC95%: 1,08-1,18), con la enfermedad en una etapa temprana (OR = 1,27; IC95%: 1,22-1,32), tratadas de 2006 a 2011 (OR = 1,54; IC95%: 1,47-1,60) y dentro del sistema de salud pública (OR = 1,19; IC95%: 1,13-1,25). Se observó entre las regiones de Brasil un análisis estratificado de los factores de variabilidad. La identificación de factores asociados con el retraso en la iniciación del tratamiento puede permitir la preparación de intervenciones propuestas a poblaciones específicas.

Assessment of quality of life in patients with advanced non-small cell lung carcinoma treated with a combination of carboplatin and paclitaxel.

OBJECTIVE: Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. Most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, palliative chemotherapy therefore being the only treatment option. This study was aimed at evaluating the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of advanced-stage NSCLC patients receiving palliative chemotherapy with carboplatin and paclitaxel. METHODS: This was a multiple case study of advanced-stage NSCLC outpatients receiving chemotherapy at a public hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire was used in conjunction with its supplemental lung cancer-specific module in order to assess HRQoL. RESULTS: Physical and cognitive functioning scale scores differed significantly among chemotherapy cycles, indicating improved and worsened HRQoL, respectively. The differences regarding the scores for pain, loss of appetite, chest pain, and arm/shoulder pain indicated improved HRQoL. CONCLUSIONS: Chemotherapy was found to improve certain aspects of HRQoL in patients with advanced-stage NSCLC.

Assessment of quality of life in patients with advanced non-small cell lung carcinoma treated with a combination of carboplatin and paclitaxel / Avaliação da qualidade de vida de pacientes com carcinoma pulmonar de células não pequenas em estágio avançado, tratados com carboplatina associada a paclitaxel

OBJECTIVE: Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer. Most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, palliative chemotherapy therefore being the only treatment option. This study was aimed at evaluating the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of advanced-stage NSCLC patients receiving palliative chemotherapy with carboplatin and paclitaxel. METHODS: This was a multiple case study of advanced-stage NSCLC outpatients receiving chemotherapy at a public hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire was used in conjunction with its supplemental lung cancer-specific module in order to assess HRQoL. RESULTS: Physical and cognitive functioning scale scores differed significantly among chemotherapy cycles, indicating improved and worsened HRQoL, respectively. The differences regarding the scores for pain, loss of appetite, chest pain, and arm/shoulder pain indicated improved HRQoL. CONCLUSIONS: Chemotherapy was found to improve certain aspects of HRQoL in patients with advanced-stage NSCLC. .

OBJETIVO: O carcinoma pulmonar de células não pequenas (CPCNP) é tipo mais comum de câncer de pulmão. Como a maioria dos pacientes é diagnosticada em estágio avançado, a quimioterapia paliativa é a única opção de tratamento. Este estudo avaliou a qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde (QVRS) de pacientes com CPCNP avançado no decorrer da quimioterapia paliativa com carboplatina e paclitaxel. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo de casos múltiplos de pacientes ambulatoriais com CPCNP em estágio avançado recebendo quimioterapia em um hospital público no Rio de Janeiro (RJ). Para a avaliação da QVRS, foram usados o European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire e seu módulo específico para câncer de pulmão. RESULTADOS: Houve diferenças significativas na pontuação nas escalas de capacidade física e cognitiva durante a quimioterapia, indicando melhora e piora da QVRS, respectivamente. As diferenças na pontuação nos itens dor, perda de apetite, dor no tórax e dor no braço ou ombro indicaram melhora da QVRS. CONCLUSÕES: Observou-se que a quimioterapia melhora alguns aspectos da QVRS de pacientes com CPCNP avançado. .

Determinantes do diagnóstico em estadio avançado do câncer do colo do útero no Brasil / Determinants of late stage diagnosis of cervical cancer in Brazil

OBJETIVO: Analisar os fatores determinantes do diagnóstico em estadio avançado em mulheres com câncer do colo do útero no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal de base secundária. Foram incluídas mulheres cadastradas nos Registros Hospitalares de Câncer entre janeiro de 2000 e dezembro de 2009, com câncer do colo do útero invasivo. Foi considerado como desfecho o estadio clínico avançado (≥IIB). Foram estudadas as seguintes variáveis: idade ao diagnóstico, raça ou cor da pele, anos de estudo, estado civil, consumo de álcool, tabagismo, local de residência, ano do diagnóstico, primeiro tratamento recebido e estado ao final do primeiro tratamento. Foram apresentados os valores das odds ratio (OR) com intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%) e realizado um modelo de regressão logística. Valores p<0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significantes. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 37.638 casos, com média de idade de 52,4±14,1 anos. Estadio clínico avançado foi observado em 70,6% dos casos, associado à presença de carcinoma de células escamosas (OR=1,8; IC95% 1,7-2,0), idade ≥50 anos (OR=1,5; IC95% 1,4-1,6), viver com companheiro (OR=1,3; IC95% 1,2-1,4), cor da pele preta (OR=1,2; IC95% 1,1-1,4) e baixo nível educacional (OR=1,2; IC95% 1,1-1,3). CONCLUSÃO: No Brasil, o diagnóstico do câncer do colo do útero ocorre tardiamente. Embora o principal fator associado ao estadio avançado do câncer do colo do útero identificado neste estudo seja de ordem biológica (tipo histológico) e, consequentemente, não seja passível de intervenção, confirmou-se que as disparidades socioeconômicas presentes no país estão associadas ao estadio avançado da doença. .

PURPOSE: To assess the determinants of late stage in women with cervical cancer in Brazil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of secondary basis. Women with invasive cervical cancer enrolled in the Cancer Hospital Registry between January 2000 and December 2009 were included. Late clinical stage (≥IIB) was the outcome considered. The following variables were studied: age at diagnosis, race or ethnicity, years of education, marital status, alcohol consumption, smoking status, place of residence, year of diagnosis, initial treatment received, and status after the first treatment. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) and a logistic regression model were used. P values<0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: 37,638 cases were included, with a mean age of 52.4±14.1 years. Late clinical stages were observed in 70.6% of cases and were associated with the presence of squamous cell carcinoma (OR=1.8; 95%CI 1.7-2.0), age ≥50 years (OR=1.5; 95%CI 1.4-1.6), living with a partner (OR=1.3; 95%CI 1.2-1.4), black skin color (OR=1.2; 95%CI 1.1-1.4), and low educational level (OR=1.2; 95%CI 1.1-1.3). CONCLUSION: In Brazil, the diagnosis of cervical cancer is a delayed event. Although the main factor associated with late stage of cervical cancer identified in this study is a biological factors (histological type) and, consequently, not eligible for intervention, it was confirmed that socioeconomic disparities in the country are associated with late stage disease. .

The magnitude of the association between smoking and the risk of developing cancer in Brazil: a multicenter study.

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the magnitude of association and identify the aetiological fraction (AF) attributable to smoking in the development of different types of cancers in Brazil. SETTING: We conducted a case-control study, including 231 102 patients registered in the Cancer Hospital Registries (CHR) in the period from 1998 to 2011. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 204 131 cancer cases relating to 30 topographies were compared with 26 971 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: Smoking exposure was considered at the time of hospital registration. We calculated OR, unadjusted and adjusted for gender, age and alcohol consumption, with 95% CIs. RESULTS: After adjustment, the risk of developing cancer associated with smoking was very high (piriform sinus, bronchi and lung, larynx, hypopharynx, oropharynx and oral cavity), high (oesophagus and bladder), moderate (anus and anal canal stomach, nasal cavity, middle ear and paranasal sinuses, pancreas, nasopharynx, other parts of the biliary tract and kidney and low (liver, gall)). There was no association between smoking and cancers of the central nervous system and myeloid leukaemia. For thyroid cancer there was a decreased risk of developing the disease. The AF was higher than 50% for hypopharynx, larynx, bronchi and lung, oropharynx, oral cavity and oesophagus cancers. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms a high risk of developing cancer of the hypopharynx, bronchi and lung, larynx, oropharynx and oral cavity, oesophagus and bladder cancer among smokers and establishes the AF attributable to smoking in the development of different types of cancer in Brazil.