Correlation of Cancer-Related Fatigue with Respiratory Muscle Strength in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy at Tertiary Health Care Hospital

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a common and distressing symptom experienced by breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Respiratory muscle strength (RMS) plays a crucial role in maintaining physical function and quality of life. Understanding the relationship between CRF and Respiratory muscle strength could offer insights into the comprehensive management of breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Objective: This observational, prospective study aimed to investigate the correlation between CRF and Respiratory muscle strength in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Methods: A convenient sample of 33 female breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy was recruited from a tertiary healthcare hospital. CRF was assessed using the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy – Fatigue (FACIT-F) scale, while Respiratory muscle strength was measured using a Respiratory Pressure Meter (MicroRPM). Data were collected pre- and post-radiotherapy sessions. Statistical analysis, including Pearson correlation and paired t-tests, was conducted using SPSS version 22.0. Results: The mean age of participants was 46.53 years. Pre-radiotherapy, the mean FACIT-F score was 29.27, indicating moderate fatigue, which decreased significantly to 25.60 post- radiotherapy (p < 0.001). Similarly, pre-radiotherapy, the mean Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (MIP) was 41.80 cm H2O, and the mean Maximum Expiratory Pressure (MEP) was 45.20 cm H2O, both of which decreased significantly post-radiotherapy (p < 0.001). However, Pearson correlation analysis did not reveal a significant correlation between CRF and RMS pre- or post-radiotherapy. Conclusion: Breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy experience a significant reduction in CRF and Respiratory muscle strength post-treatment. However, no significant correlation was found between CRF and Respiratory muscle strength suggesting that other factors may contribute to CRF in this population. Further research is needed to explore additional variables influencing CRF in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Keywords: Cancer-Related fatigue, Radiotherapy, Breast cancer