The influence of spirituality on psychological resilience in cancer patients undergoing oncological treatment: a cross-sectional study
Abstract Introduction Spirituality and resilience have been studied as possible factors influencing psychological adjustment in cancer patients. However, the evidence on their relationship remains inconsistent, and their impact in this context is not fully established. Objective This study assessed...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
BMC
2025-05-01
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| Series: | BMC Palliative Care |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s12904-025-01768-5 |
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| Summary: | Abstract Introduction Spirituality and resilience have been studied as possible factors influencing psychological adjustment in cancer patients. However, the evidence on their relationship remains inconsistent, and their impact in this context is not fully established. Objective This study assessed the influence of spirituality on psychological resilience in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Methods This cross-sectional observational study included 170 oncology outpatients who were receiving chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy at a specialized oncology center in Peru. Spirituality was measured with the Spiritual Perspective Scale (SPS) and resilience with the Wagnild and Young Resilience Scale. Spearman correlation coefficient (rs) analyses and multiple linear regression models adjusted for age, gender, educational level, socioeconomic status, clinical stage, and comorbidities were applied. Results A significant positive correlation was found between spirituality and resilience (rs=0.53, p < 0.001). The spiritual beliefs dimension exhibited a stronger association with resilience (rs=0.56, p < 0.001) compared to spiritual practices (rs=0.28, p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, spiritual beliefs (β = 2.38; 95%CI: 1.92–2.83) and a higher educational level (β = 12.61; 95%CI: 6.27–18.95) were significant predictors of higher resilience. Conclusions Spirituality, particularly spiritual beliefs, had a positive influence on resilience in cancer patients, regardless of educational level. These findings enhance the need to integrate the spiritual approach in psycho-oncological care to contribute to patients’ emotional well-being. However, further studies are required to deepen this relationship and explore its impact in different clinical contexts. Implications for practice Including spiritual assessments, especially spiritual beliefs, in clinical practice may enhance personalized approaches to optimize psycho-oncological care. |
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| ISSN: | 1472-684X |