Patient Factors Associated with Increased Cancer Worry, Fatigue, and Impact on Work Following a Breast Cancer Diagnosis: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: A breast cancer diagnosis may result in disabling effects which may persist after treatment. The aim of this study was to identify patient factors that are associated with increased cancer worry, fatigue, and impact on work. Methods: Women with a history of breast cancer, aged ≥18 years, and English-speaking were recruited through the Love Research Army between October and November 2019. Participants completed demographic and clinical questions alongside the BREAST-Q Cancer Worry, Fatigue, and Impact on Work scales. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were used to identify participant characteristics associated with each scale. Results: Cancer Worry, Fatigue, and Impact on Work scales were completed by n = 1680, n = 1037, and n = 873 participants, respectively. Most participants were older than 50 (n = 1,470, 87.5%), married (n = 1229, 73.2%), white (n = 1557, 92.7%), and had undergone surgery for cancer treatment (n = 1,472, 87.6%). Increased Cancer Worry was significantly associated (P