Quality of Life of Patients with Breast Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Tigray, Ethiopia: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

Background: Health-related quality of life is crucial for managing chronic conditions like breast cancer. However, data on quality of life among patients diagnosed with breast cancer in Ethiopia, especially in the Tigray region, is limited. This study explored health related quality of life in patients diagnosed with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Methodology: A deductive qualitative study was conducted from February to March 2020 using in-depth interviews with 18 patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Interviews, guided by quality of life themes, were recorded, transcribed, translated from Tigrigna to English, and analyzed using Open Code software. Coding was informed by literature and refined collaboratively. Results: Patients reported major physical limitations and chemotherapy side effects like hair loss, fatigue, appetite loss, and menstrual disturbances. Emotional well-being was deeply impacted by fear and anxiety, though counseling helped improve stability. Social isolation and financial hardship were also significant, further affecting quality of life. Conclusion and Recommendations: Chemotherapy negatively impacts Health-related quality of life across physical, emotional, and social dimensions. Emotional support and peer counseling improve coping. The study recommends expanding psychosocial services, financial assistance, and insurance coverage. Future research should examine long-term psychological and economic effects to enhance patient care strategies. Keywords: Breast cancer, qualitative, Symptom Experience, Emotional Wellbeing, Treatment Impact