306067
Coping and Stress among Breast Cancer Survivors in China
Methods: In partnership with Nanjing Cancer Survivors Association in China, 150 breast cancer (BC) survivors were recruited to complete a self-assessment as part of a study of patient navigation. Mental health measures included perceived stress and 14 measures of coping. Mean differences on stress and coping scales were analyzed for demographic and breast cancer health variables.
Results: Mean stress levels were highest for those with BC stage 3 and 4 diagnoses (p=0.067). Overall, coping scores did not vary by demographics and most health factors. BC survivors in their first year of diagnosis were more likely to use active copying (p=0.000), instrumental support (p=0.006), positive reframing (p=0.019), acceptance (p=0.000) and functional social support (p=0.000). Survivors diagnosed 2-5 years previously were more likely to use distraction (p=0.002) as a form of coping.
Conclusion: Intensive treatment for BC occurs primarily in the first year after diagnosis explaining the many types of coping mechanisms used by BC survivors. Distraction from thoughts of breast cancer is understandable in the years after treatment completion. Surprisingly, longer term survivors reported few coping mechanisms. Patient navigation programs need to be prepared to meet the many health and mental health needs of those newly diagnosed.
Learning Areas:
Advocacy for health and health educationAssessment of individual and community needs for health education
Diversity and culture
Public health or related research
Learning Objectives:
Describe at least three ways that stress is moderated by coping mechanisms for breast cancer survivors in the years after diagnosis.
Explain different types of coping mechanisms used by survivors at different stages of diagnosis.
Discuss training needs for patient navigators to meet mental health needs and facilitate coping among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients.
Keyword(s): Mental Health, Cancer
Not Answered