Background: Many breast cancer patients experience arthralgia symptoms during aromatase inhibitor (AI) treatment, which leads to poor compliance and a lower quality of life.
Objective: The research questions of this study were as follows: (1) What is the incidence of arthralgia during AI treatment in early breast cancer patients, (2) what is the impact of AI-associated arthralgia on hand function, daily activities, and AI adherence, and (3) does the healthcare provider recognize AI-associated arthralgia as relevant in clinical practice?
Methods: A total of 57 breast cancer patients of a University Breast Cancer Clinic participated in this study. Each patient completed a questionnaire, performed 2 function tests (goniometry of the wrist and a handgrip strength measurement), and consented to a review of the medical chart.
Results: Forty-two breast cancer patients (74%) reported symptoms of arthralgia. All patients with arthralgia symptoms experienced an impact on their daily activities, and 65% had a decrease in hand and finger function. Sixty-nine percent of all patients were fully adherent in their medicine treatment. In 26% of cases with arthralgia, the symptoms were not reported in the medical chart.
Conclusion: Given the large number of patients with AI-associated arthralgia and its impact on daily life and functioning, it is of great importance to improve the recognition and care of arthralgia symptoms during AI treatment.
Implications for practice: Oncology nurses could play an important role in assessment of modifiable risk factors, providing lifestyle advice and support in coping.