Factors of the development of fear of disease progression in patients with breast cancer

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The issue of the influence of psychics on somatic diseases, including cancer, becomes more and more relevant. In cases with cancer, patients face a vital threat, which, in its turn, is manifested as a range of biopsychosocial consequences. AIM: The aim of the study was to reveal the factors of the formation of fear of cancer progression or recurrence in breast cancer patients. METHODS: The sampling included patients from clinical hospitals of Moscow and Saint Petersburg (Russia). The study involved 690 patients aged 30–79 years old. The study was performed with specially selected diagnostic tools that allowed the authors to evaluate the intensity and reveal peculiarities of the development of fear of cancer progression. Statistical analysis was performed by the calculation of the mean arithmetic of the general sampling, the rate, and the ratio distribution by the intensity of fear of cancer progression, and Spearman correlation. RESULTS: Statistically significant associations were revealed between the parameters of intensity and peculiarities of fear of cancer progression and such characteristics of personality as viability, integrated personality, and experiences in a close relationship. CONCLUSION: The obtained results were used to develop methodical recommendations on the improvement of a psychoemotional condition of women diagnosed with breast cancer.