Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: Risk Factors, Severity and Quality of Life Among Patients with Cancer

Abstract

Abstract Purpose A significant side effect of cancer treatment is chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN). CIPN can have a serious negative impact on the patient’s quality of life (QOL). The purpose of this study was to assess the severity, risk factors, and QOL in cancer patients with CIPN. Methods A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Military Oncology Center/ Royal Medical Services. A total of 175 oncology patients who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. Data on demographic and clinical characteristics, CIPN severity, risk factors, and QOL were collected through structured questionnaires. Results The average age of the participants was 53.31 years (SD= 14.98), and 54% of them were females. Most had undergone numerous toxic chemotherapies as part of their treatment. Participants reported a moderate level of QOL. The following factors were identified as predictors of QOL by multivariable linear regression analyses: (F=8.635; R2 = 3.328; P <.00), including Fact/GOG-Ntx total score (β=.259; P< .00), sites of cancer metastasis (β=-.318; P .00), previous radiotherapy treatment (β= -.177; P<.02), and alcohol consumption (β=-.246; P< .00). Predictors of CIPN severity were: (F=8.635; R2 = .504; P <.00), Fact/GOG-Ntx total score (β=0.37; P< .00), sites of cancer metastasis (β=.265; P .00), current radiotherapy treatment (β= -.325; P<.00), and current chemotherapy (β=-.131; P< .03). Conclusions Participants with a heavy burden of severe CIPN symptoms had worse overall health and quality of life. To enable the establishment of further preventative and therapeutic management measures, it is crucial to recognize risk factors.