The experience of musculoskeletal symptoms among patients with breast cancer during aromatase inhibitor therapy: A qualitative study.

Objective: To examine the musculoskeletal symptom experiences of Chinese patients with breast cancer receiving aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy and identify patient-centered strategies for symptom management. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted from June to August 2023 at a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China. Using purposive sampling with maximum variation, 37 women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer (stages I-III) undergoing AI therapy participated in semi-structured telephone interviews. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically. Results: Four themes were identified: (1) Symptom burden-persistent joint pain, stiffness, and fatigue interfered with daily activities; (2) Emotional impact-symptoms provoked anxiety, frustration, and reduced well-being; (3) Social challenges-decreased participation in social and family life led to feelings of isolation; and (4) Coping strategies-pharmacological measures (e.g., calcium and vitamin D supplementation) and non-pharmacological interventions (e.g., exercise, acupuncture) were adopted, though access to reliable information and professional guidance was often inadequate. Conclusions: Musculoskeletal symptoms related to AI therapy impose considerable physical, emotional, and social burdens on Chinese patients with breast cancer, potentially undermining treatment adherence. Culturally appropriate, patient-centered management incorporating both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions is essential to optimize symptom control and quality of life.