Evaluating the Impact of an Intervention Module on Reducing Physical Side Effects in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with breast cancer being one of the most prevalent forms affecting women globally. This study aims to develop, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention module designed to reduce the physical effects experienced by breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at the Institute Kanser Negara (National Cancer Institute). Methods: A single-blinded Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial was conducted at Institut Kanser Negara between January 2023 and Jun 2023. The estimated sample size was 120 participants, with 60 participants in both the intervention and control groups. The intervention group received chemotherapy counseling using a newly developed module over three chemotherapy cycles. Result: The counselling module was effective in reducing the physical side effects among breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at baseline and for three consecutive follow-ups . There was also a moderate effect reduction for physical side effects such as nausea (p< 0.001, partial Ƞ2 = 0.522), vomiting (p < 0.001, partial Ƞ2 = 0.519), diarrhea (p < 0.001, partial Ƞ2 = 0.389), constipation (p < 0.001, partial Ƞ2 = 0.226), fatigue (p < 0.001, partial Ƞ2 = 0.319), hair loss (p = 0.256, partial Ƞ2 = 0.011), mouth, gum and throat infection (p < 0.001, partial Ƞ2 = 0.237), skin and nail changes (p <0.001, partial Ƞ2 = 0.145). Conclusion: The intervention module with repetitive counseling sessions conducted by a pharmacist effectively reduced physical side effects in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.