ASSESSMENT OF HEMATOLOGICAL CHANGES POST CHEMOTHERAPY IN FEMALE BREAST CANCER PATIENTS IN PALESTINE
Date
2026-05-12
Authors
Madline Mezher
Noor Sayaj
Rand Abu Dayyeh
Tarneem Al-Masri
Sima Al-Falah
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Deanship of Scientific Research - Al-Quds University
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies among women worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Chemotherapy is a cornerstone of treatment but is associated with significant hematological toxicity, including anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Understanding the patterns of blood cell changes and recovery after chemotherapy is essential for optimizing patient management and improving outcomes.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chemotherapy on hematological parameters in breast cancer patients and to investigate the recovery of red blood cells and other blood components post-treatment. Additionally, it sought to identify patterns and variability in recovery, including factors that might influence prolonged anemia or incomplete hematologic restoration.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at Beit Jala Governmental Hospital and Dora Hospital in Palestine between October and November 2025. One hundred female breast cancer patients aged 20–60, who had completed chemotherapy and had full medical records, were included. Hematological data—including RBC count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, WBC count, platelet count, and related indices—were collected from routine complete blood counts at pre-treatment, during chemotherapy, end of treatment, 6-month, and 1-year follow-up. Recovery indices (RIE) and inflammatory markers, including NLR, PLR, LMR, and IRI, were calculated. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired-sample tests to determine significant changes.