THE MODERATING EFFECT OF SOCIAL SUPPORT IN CANCER PATIENTS

Abstract

The purpose of this research was investigating the moderating effect of social support in depressive symptoms and quality of life in cancer patients. 68 patients diagnosed with cancer took part in the research, with ages varying between 25 and 83 years of age (M=55.4; SD=13.3) with 85.3% being females. The instruments used were Escala de Percepção do Suporte Social – adult version (EPSUS-A), Medical Outcomes Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Escala Baptista de Depressão versão Hospital-Ambulatório (EBADEP-HOSP-AMB). It was verified that social support played a moderating effect between the depressive symptoms and the quality of life, in two domains for the total sample, in two domains based on the age of patients and in four domains considering the diagnosis. The findings corroborate the literature, emphasizing the importance of investigating the moderating effect of social support and could contribute in improving understanding of the impact caused by the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, enabling interventions aimed at higher quality of life for these patients. Rua Waldemar César da Silveira, 105, Jardim Cura D'Ars (SWIFT), Campinas São Paulo; CEP 13045510. e-mail: catarinasette@hotmail.com. SUPORTE SOCIAL EM PACIENTES ONCOLÓGICOS www.sp-ps.pt 266