# Neurocognitive function and health-related quality of life among glioblastoma patients: A prospective study

## TL;DR

This study examines how factors like age and tumor location affect the quality of life for glioblastoma patients in Morocco.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific factors influencing health-related quality of life in Moroccan glioblastoma patients using a prospective design.

## Key findings

- Advancing age, left-sided tumor location, education level, and hospital proximity significantly impact overall quality of life.
- Health-related quality of life declines during follow-up among glioblastoma patients.
- Multivariate regression analysis confirmed significant associations between patient characteristics and QoL outcomes.

## Abstract

Glioblastomas are aggressive brain tumours that significantly impact patients’ functional and psychological well-being, making the evaluation of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) essential.

This study aims to assess the quality of life (QoL) and neurocognitive status of glioblastoma patients in Morocco.

Patients were recruited from two renowned oncology centres in Morocco.

Patients receiving care at two renowned oncology centres were enrolled between April 2021 and January 2024. The QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BN20 scales were used to assess QoL, while neurocognitive function was evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) test. Data normality were checked using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and non-parametric methods were used to compare scores. Variables such as age, tumour laterality, residence, and educational status were examined for their association with overall QoL. Both univariate linear regression and multivariate regression analyses were conducted. Statistical analyses were performed using the JAMOVI software.

The study enrolled 106 patients, with a median age of 56.7 years. Among them, 66% were male, while 34% were female. Multiple linear regression showed that age (B: –15.46; 95% CI: –24.15 to –6.77; p < 0.001), education level (B: –9.36; 95% CI: 0.84 to 17.88; p = 0.032), distance from hospital (B: –9.85; 95% CI: –18.34 to –1.36; p = 0.023), and tumour laterality (B= –12.36; 95% CI: –20.65 to –4.06; p = 0.004) were significantly associated with overall QoL at 3 months follow-up.

The results indicate a decline in HRQoL during follow-up among glioblastoma patients. Advancing age, tumour location on the left side, education level, and proximity to the hospital significantly influence the overall QoL.

This study highlights the critical factors impacting HRQoL in glioblastoma patients in Morocco, providing insights for improving patient care.