Psychocognitive functions among breast cancer survivors: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Purpose: Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairments (CRCIs) are one of the adverse effects of chemotherapy, so there is a need to explore alternative measures to maintain normal cognitive functions or to prevent decline in cognitive abilities. This study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of Cognitive Training Interventions Package on cognitive functions among breast cancer survivors (BCSs). Materials and Methods: A total of 59 BCSs were randomly assigned to control and intervention groups. Participants of the intervention group were provided with a Cognitive Training Interventions Package to be practiced from 1st cycle until the completion of 4th cycle of chemotherapy. Both the groups were reassessed on the 4th cycle of chemotherapy. FACT Cog Version-3, Post Graduate Institute Memory Scale (PGIMS), and trail making test were used to assess cognitive functions. Activities of daily livings (ADLs) and depression, stress, and anxiety were measured using Barthel Index Scale and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21, respectively. Satisfaction level among participants was measured using a self-structured questionnaire. Results: The mean age was 50.82 ± 10.12 years in the control group and 50 ± 11.24 years in the intervention group. BCSs in the intervention group demonstrated a significant improvement in attention and concentration (P = 0.02); retention for similar pairs (P = 0.001); recognition (P = 0.01); and visual attention, processing speed, and executive functions (P = 0.01). Intervention group also showed a significant improvement in ADLs (P = 0.04). Overall, the participants in the experimental group were more satisfied (mean = 2.00) as compared to those in the control group (mean = 1.896), which is supported by the observed statistical significant difference in the satisfaction levels of the participants (P = 0.04). Reduction in the levels of anxiety and depression was also noticed in both the groups but it was not significant. Conclusion: Cognitive training interventions package was beneficial for BCSs with CRCI to overcome cognitive impairments.