Self-Reported Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment in Patients With Breast Cancer Is Associated With Potassium Channel Gene Polymorphisms

Objectives: To evaluate for associations of polymorphisms for potassium channel genes in patients with breast cancer who were classified as having high or low–moderate levels of cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI).

Sample & Setting: 397 women who were scheduled to undergo surgery for breast cancer on one breast were recruited from breast care centers located in a comprehensive cancer center, two public hospitals, and four community practices.

Methods & Variables: CRCI was assessed using the Attentional Function Index prior to and for six months after surgery. The attentional function classes were identified using growth mixture modeling.

Results: Differences between patients in the high versus low–moderate attentional function classes were evaluated. Six single nucleotide polymorphisms for potassium channel genes were associated with low–moderate class membership.

Implications for Nursing: The results contribute to knowledge of the mechanisms for CRCI. These findings may lead to the identification of high-risk patients and the development of novel therapeutics.