Impact on quality of life of adjuvant therapy for breast cancer.

Late toxicities of adjuvant chemotherapy and side effects of endocrine therapy may cause long-term quality-of-life impairments for some individuals who have been treated for breast cancer. Chemotherapy has been associated with durable effects on cognitive function and fatigue and with the induction of menopause. Endocrine therapies can increase menopausal and sexual symptoms and can contribute to weight gain. Overall, however, quality of life is good for the majority of breast cancer survivors who have received adjuvant systemic therapy. Behavioral interventions that target fatigue and sleep disturbance may further enhance quality of life.