IMPACT OF GYNECOLOGICAL CANCERS ON HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG WOMEN IN MADHYA PRADESH

Abstract

Gynecological cancers (including cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers) remain a major public health problem worldwide and significantly impact women’s physical, emotional, and social well-being. Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) is a multidimensional concept that includes physical, psychological, and social domains influenced by an individual’s experience, beliefs, and expectations. Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) has emerged as an essential outcome indicator in oncology, reflecting not just survival but the overall well-being of the patient. HRQoL includes multiple domains—physical health, emotional functioning, social participation, and role fulfillment. The experience of gynecological cancers and their treatments (surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy) can lead to physical exhaustion, hormonal imbalance, sexual dysfunction, and psychological distress.