Considerations for health-related quality of life in breast cancer survivorship

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women and is the leading cause of cancer-related death among females worldwide (1). Advances in oncologic diagnostics and treatment of cancer have progressed to the point in which cancer is considered a chronic disease (2). Of all chronic diseases, cancer and oncologic treatment may produce the most significant concern to those inflicted (2). Breast cancer and oncologic treatment can have significant negative effects on physical function (3) and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) (4).