Assessing Quality of Life in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer in a Prospective Single-Center Observational Study

Abstract

Background and Purpose:

Patients with pancreatic cancer have an extensive symptom burden and a modest quality of life (QoL). Our aim was to evaluate three QoL questionnaires in clinical practice and monitor patients’ symptoms over a 4-month follow-up period.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 54 patients with pancreatic cancer in a single-center University Hospital in Finland. The QoL questionnaires involved were the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C15-PAL, QLQ-C30, and QLQ-PAN26. Patients completed the questionnaires at baseline and at 2 and 4 months.

Results:

All three questionnaires served as a tool for facilitating dialogue between patient and physician. No relevant changes were observed in reported symptoms, concerns, or QoL during the follow-up period. However, the amount of missing data increased over time due to patients’ declining health or death. The main reported concern was worry about future health.

Conclusion:

The shorter 15-question survey seemed to capture an adequate picture of patient well-being. The QLQ-PAN26 added valuable insight, as it focuses on pancreatic cancer-related symptoms. The information gathered from these QoL questionnaires can be used both to emphasize patients’ concerns and to support decision making.