Assessment of the lifestyle factors of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy in Malta

Abstract

Purpose Limited research is available regarding the lifestyle habits of patients undergoing external beam radiotherapy in Malta. A quantitative study was conducted to assess the overall lifestyle of cancer patients at the local oncology hospital in Malta. Objectives This study aimed to determine the overall lifestyle of cancer patients undergoing external beam radiotherapy, identify if demographic data correlates with patient lifestyle and compare patients’ responses with relation to recommendations given for a healthy lifestyle. Methodology The study utilised a cross-sectional, prospective, non-experimental design. A quantitative approach was used, adapting a questionnaire regarding lifestyle, separated into six sections with 25 questions formatted in a 4-point Likert scale. Five questions were used to ascertain the lifestyle behaviours of participants and relate to recommendations for a healthier lifestyle. Results From the 30 participants who participated in the study, findings reveal that patients are experiencing an overall positive lifestyle, with an average score of 72 out of 100. Although no statistical significance was found between demographic data, several findings regarding their means were found. Females (46.66%, n=14) were found to have a better overall lifestyle average when compared to males (50%, n=15). Respondents aged <65 years (46.66%, n=14) were found to have a lower overall average lifestyle than those aged >65 years (53.33%, n=16). With regard to treatment site, Head and Neck participants (10%, n=3) experienced the lowest overall lifestyle score (69.33). Most participants (43.33%, n=13) reported sleeping between 5-7 hours daily, not engaging in any stretching exercises weekly (73.33%, n=22). 65.52% of participants (n=19) reported drinking below the recommended 2L of water a day. Conclusions Results indicate that patients receiving radiotherapy at the local oncology clinic maintain a positive lifestyle. Findings indicate that positive lifestyle habits, such as physical activity, improve overall well-being. Nonetheless, it is recommended that a structured education system will further aid patients to adopt healthier lifestyle behaviours.