Does spirituality reduce the impact of somatic symptoms on distress in cancer patients? Cross-sectional and longitudinal findings

Social Science & Medicine
Anja VisserBert Garssen

Abstract

When diagnosed with cancer, a patient has to cope with stressors such as pain, fatigue, and the experience of life-threat that can cause great distress. Spirituality may be a resource for coping with these problems, thereby reducing distress. Two questionnaire studies-the first a cross-sectional (Study 1; N = 216) and the second a one-year longitudinal (Study 2; N = 383)-investigated among Dutch cancer patients whether spirituality lessens the impact of pain, fatigue, and perceived life-threat on distress. Data for Study 1 were gathered in 2006-2007 and for Study 2 in 2009-2010. Spirituality was measured with the Spiritual Attitude and Involvement List, which assesses six distinct but related aspects of spirituality. Linear regression analysis and marginal effect plots were applied. Limited evidence appeared for the hypothesis that spirituality reduces the impact of pain, fatigue, or perceived life threat on distress. Meaningfulness and acceptance might reduce a negative impact of increases in fatigue during the first year after the start of cancer treatment. In contrast, spirituality might enhance a negative impact of increases in perceived life threat. Processes of appraisal might explain the findings. Experiences of meaningf...Continue Reading

Citations

Mar 2, 2021·HPB : the Official Journal of the International Hepato Pancreato Biliary Association·Elizabeth Palmer KellyTimothy M Pawlik
Jun 20, 2021·Supportive Care in Cancer : Official Journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer·Yilong YangYumei Wang
Jul 7, 2021·Supportive Care in Cancer : Official Journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer·Megan MillerCatherine Cherwin

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