Effect on Nurse Led Back Massage Therapy on Fatigue among Breast Cancer Patients IN selected hospitals at Kanyakumari district

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is the world's most prevalent cancer and is a common risk factor that can reduce life
expectancy, particularly among females. Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most debilitating symptoms
experienced by breast cancer survivors, which is mainly caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The burden
of unmanaged CRF can lead to reduction in quality of life (QoL) as it affects patients' physical function, mood,
social interaction, and cognitive performance. Cancer-related fatigue has a more significant negative effect on
QoL than other cancer-related symptoms, such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and depression, and it can last for
months or even years after cancer treatment.
Aim of the study: to examine the effect of back massage on fatigue among breast cancer patients.
Setting: The study was carried out at the oncology ward in the st Joseph hospital, Kanyakumari.
Sample: A convenient sample of 84 patients with breast cancer was participating in the study.
Design: A quasi experiment design (study/control) was utilized.
Tools: A Semi Structured Demographic Questionnaire; Piper Fatigue Scale; Questionnaire were used to collect
data.
Results: There was a highly statistically significant decrease in the total mean score of fatigue, P<.001.
Conclusion: Back massage is a simple, non-invasive technique has a beneficial effect on reducing fatigue of
breast cancer patients.