Quality of Life of Colorectal Cancer Survivors: Gender Differences in Inner Strength and Multiple Identities

Abstract

Abstract Background This study aimed to investigate the differences in inner strength, multiple identities, and quality of life among colorectal cancer survivors, with a focus on gender. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the factors that influence their quality of life. Methods This cross-sectional study included 170 colorectal cancer survivors in Korea. Participants were recruited from an online self-help group for colorectal cancer survivors. Participants were recruited from an online self-help group for survivors of colorectal cancer. Participants were divided into specific groups based on gender for the purpose of examining the differences in study variables, and additional analyses were conducted. The factors influencing their quality of life were identified through multiple regression analysis, without dividing the participants. Results The quality of life for male colorectal cancer survivors was higher than that of female survivors. In terms of inner strength, ‘anguish and searching' was higher in male while ‘connectedness' was higher in female. Inner strength was found to be the most powerful influencing factor on quality of life, after controlling for age and gender. Conclusions This study aimed to determine the significance of inner strength in survivors of colorectal cancer. It enabled a more comprehensive understanding of the quality of life in colorectal cancer survivors by not only focusing on the factors that impact quality of life, but also by examining how these impacts vary based on gender. To improve the quality of life for survivors of colorectal cancer, it is crucial to understand the impact of factors such as gender and inner strength. Additionally, it is crucial to establish personalized interventions that specifically target their unique characteristics. The inner strength plays an important role in improving the quality of life for survivors of colorectal cancer. This study suggests that inner strength is applicable to male cancer survivors and supports the inner strength theory.