Effects of Fear of Cancer Recurrence on Coping Among Women With Cancer: Double Mediating Effects of Perceived Health Status and Mindfulness.

Abstract

Background: Fear of cancer recurrence can act as a critical variable in cancer coping, and effectively managing this fear is crucial for the treatment and recovery processes.

Objective: This study aims to examine the impact of fear of cancer recurrence, perceived health status, and mindfulness on cancer coping among female patients with cancer. The focus is on the mediating effects of perceived health status and mindfulness in this relationship.

Methods: The study participants consisted of 202 women with cancer, and the data were collected through an online survey. The mediation effects were analyzed using PROCESS Macro 3.5 Model 6.

Results: The results of the direct effect analysis indicated that fear of cancer recurrence had a significant positive effect on cancer coping, whereas fear of cancer recurrence had a significant negative effect on perceived health status and mindfulness. The results of the indirect effect analysis showed that the fear of cancer recurrence significantly influenced cancer coping through both perceived health status and mindfulness. The effect size was -0.03, with a 95% confidence interval ranging from -0.05 to -0.01.

Conclusions: It is imperative in clinical practice to offer psychological support to patients experiencing high levels of fear of cancer recurrence. Moreover, ongoing education is crucial to promote a positive perception of health status and to cultivate mindfulness practices.

Implications for practice: Oncology nurses can facilitate effective coping and help to reduce fear of cancer recurrence by assisting patients in cognitively reevaluating their perceived health status and integrating mindfulness practices into daily life.