A descriptive study to assess the symptom burden in cancer patients undergoing treatment in GGSMCH, Faridkot, Punjab.

This study aims to assess the symptom burden among cancer patients undergoing treatment at Guru Gobind Singh Medical College & Hospital Punjab. Cancer remains a leading global health concern, as reported by the World Health Organization, with high incidence and mortality rates. Patients undergoing cancer treatment frequently experience multiple physical and psychological symptoms such as pain, fatigue, nausea, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, which collectively contribute to significant symptom burden and reduced quality of life.

A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design will be used, enrolling 130 adult cancer patients selected through convenient sampling. Data will be collected using a self-developed socio-demographic and clinical profile sheet and the standardized Rotterdam Symptom Checklist (RSCL). The study seeks to evaluate the level of symptom burden and examine its association with selected sociodemographic and clinical variables. Findings are expected to support systematic symptom assessment, improve supportive care strategies, and enhance overall patient well-being and quality of life.