Chemotherapy‐associated cognitive impairments in Korean cancer patients: Risk factors and functional outcome

Abstract Objective To identify those experiencing significant self‐reported cognitive decline over 2 time points during chemotherapy, examine the risk factors for cognitive decline, and examine differences between those with and without significant decline in functional limitations. Methods This secondary analysis used data from 163 cancer patients, collected from a Korean University hospital. Significant decline was determined by 15% or more reduction from baseline in the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Cognitive Function. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to estimate risk factors. Repeated‐measures ANOVA and t tests tested differences in groups with and without cognitive decline in cognitive impairment and functional limitation. Results About 31% (n = 51) experienced significant cognitive decline. Groups with and without decline significantly differed in cognitive‐impairment changes over time ( F = 238.49, P < .001) and in functional limitations at follow‐up ( t test, P < .01). Those experiencing increased fatigue over time (odds = 0.94, P < .05) and those who underwent 2 or more cycles between time 1 and 2 (odds = 2.61; P < .05) had higher risk of significant decline over time during chemotherapy. Conclusion Significant cognitive decline occurred during active chemotherapy; attention to cognitive impairment should be given in the early phase of chemotherapy.