RESUMO
BACKGROUND: A previous study reported many physical and psychosocial problems in 50 women, aged 31-66 (mean 49), who had undergone surgical treatment, chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer mammae stage 1 and 2 (limited to the breast only or spread to the axillary lymph nodes, respectively). The same study also showed positive results of a rehabilitation programme for these women. The present study is a five-year follow-up of the same patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Of the 50 women in the previous study 13 had died of cancer, one had undergone cardiac surgery and two refused to participate. Physical and psychological status was examined in 34 women five years after rehabilitation. RESULTS: Maximum oxygen uptake had decreased to 74% of the predicted values, the women were less active, physical problems from arm/shoulder were still present, and problems with depression and anxiety were similar to the situation after rehabilitation. Only 56% (19/34) of the women still had a full job. INTERPRETATION: The study shows that the 34 women assessed had significant health problems five years after treatment for breast cancer stage 1 and 2. The results should be interpreted with care, as the number of women is small and there are no controls.
