Quality of Life During Chemotherapy in Japanese Patients with Unresectable Advanced Pancreatic Cancer

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the quality of life (QoL) in Japanese patients receiving standard chemotherapy for unresectable pancreatic cancer. Patients and Methods: This prospective observational study included 30 Japanese patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer (PS 0–1) who were starting standard first-line chemotherapy. QoL was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment for Cancer Quality of Life Core Questionnaire, version 3.0. Anxiety and depression were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Assessments were performed at baseline, 2 weeks, and then monthly during chemotherapy. Results: At baseline, the global health status (GHS) score was low (50/100), and 9 patients (30%) were experiencing significant levels of mental distress. Scores for the GHS, five functional scales (physical, role, emotional, cognitive, and social), nine symptoms (fatigue, nausea and vomiting, pain, dyspnea, insomnia, appetite loss, constipation, diarrhea, and financial difficulties), anxiety and depression generally did not deteriorate during chemotherapy. However, the QoL scores varied during chemotherapy according to the patients’ characteristics. Patients who achieved tumor control tended to have well-controlled QoL scores. A high survival rate was significantly associated with having a high baseline GHS score. Conclusions: Japanese patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer might maintain their QoL during standard chemotherapy, with tumor control being associated with well-controlled QoL. In addition, a high QoL at baseline was associated with a good prognosis.