Characteristics of Defecation Function Related Quality of Life According to Cancer Location in Colorectal Cancer Survivors

ABSTRACT

Purpose@#The purpose of this study is to explore defecation functions related quality of life (QoL) according to the location of cancer in colorectal cancer survivors. @*Methods@#A total of 120 colorectal cancer survivors (67 colon vs. 53 rectum, mean age 55.3±10.3 years, 46.7% male) who completed treatment were recruited from a tertiary hospital. QoL and defecation function related QoL were surveyed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC QLQ-C30) and EORTC QLQ- colorectal cancer specific core (CR29) questionnaire. Physical activity (PA) levels of participants were surveyed using a global PA questionnaire. @*Results@#There was no statistical difference in general QoL according to the location of cancer, but significant differences were observed in defecation function related QoL. When cancer location is closer to the anus, survivors experience more defecation dysfunction, negatively associated with QoL (Hemicolectomy 67.71±14.07, anterior resection 92.22±15.18, lower anterior resection 151.85±17.20, and ultra-low anterior resection 263.73±42.69). @*Conclusion@#When location of cancer is closer to the anus, colorectal survivors experience significantly more defecation dysfunction and poorer QoL. Strategies to reduce defecation dysfunction according to the location of cancer among colorectal cancer patients should be developed.