Study of the Effects of Chemotherapy on Memory and Other Mental Functions in Women With Breast Cancer

A Prospective, Longitudinal Investigation of the Neuropsychological and Psychosocial Effects of Cancer Therapy

Many breast cancer patients treated with chemotherapy complain of problems with concentration and memory. This has been referred to as chemo fog. The current study is investigating this phenomenon by measuring mental function of breast cancer patients prior to and after exposure to chemotherapy, and by comparing mental function in those patients who receive chemotherapy and those who do not.

Many breast cancer patients treated with chemotherapy complain of problems with concentration and memory. This has been referred to as chemo fog. The current study will investigate this phenomenon by measuring neuropsychological functioning in early stage breast cancer patients prior to and after exposure to chemotherapy, and by comparing change in cognitive function in patients who receive chemotherapy to similar breast cancer patients receiving hormonal therapy only.

Inclusion Criteria:

• stage I or II breast cancer; woman; 50-65 years old; post-menopausal

Exclusion Criteria:

• history of previous cancer or chemotherapy; significant neurological or psychiatric history