Preliminary Insights into Quality of Life and Dietary Intake in Patients with Breast Cancer on Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy

Abstract

Background: Endocrine therapies are accompanied by side effects that significantly impact the quality of life (QoL) of women with breast cancer. Adequate diet is important for fulfilling nutritional requirements, preserving health, and supporting therapy in this vulnerable population. Methods: This preliminary study evaluated the QoL of life and dietary intake in 185 women with breast cancer on two therapies, aromatase inhibitors (AIs) and tamoxifen, using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—Endocrine Symptoms (FACT-ES), European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), and Breast Cancer Specific Questionnaire (QLQ-BR23) and a 24 h dietary recall. A total of 185 women were included in the study and fulfilled the FACT-ES, of whom 73 fulfilled other two questionnaires and a 24 h recall. Results: No significant differences were found in the overall QoL between groups. Joint pain (95.3%) and reduced libido (84.7%) were most common with AIs, while tamoxifen users more frequently reported weight gain and irritability (93.0%, each), and vasomotor and gynecological symptoms. Macronutrient intake was similar, though AIs users consumed more energy-dense (p ≤ 0.001) and sugary foods (p = 0.034), while tamoxifen users had higher omega-6 PUFA intake. Both groups exhibited suboptimal intake of vitamin D, calcium, and selenium, and a higher phosphorus consumption relative to recommended daily values. Conclusions: Preliminary findings showed that QoL and dietary intake were comparable between patients with BC on AIs and tamoxifen treatment. Endocrine-related symptoms were more prevalent among tamoxifen users, whereas joint pain was most common in AIs users. Nutritional interventions may be warranted in both groups to ensure adequate intake of essential micronutrients in accordance with recommended dietary guidelines.