Coping Strategies and Their Effects on Quality Of Life of Cancer Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Objective: The study aimed to investigate the coping strategies employed by individuals diagnosed with cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of these strategies on their quality of life. Materials and Methods: The present descriptive and cross-sectional study analysed 131 patients from June 1 to July 1, 2021, through the social media networks of several cancer-related associations. Personal information form, coping strategies form and Duke Health Profile were used to collect data via Google forms. Results: The participants employed the strategies of spiritual beliefs (94.7%), social/emotional support (92.4%) and positive reframing (91.6%) most among all coping strategies. The Duke Health Profile (general health) score of the participants was 57.43 ± 16.20. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that social/emotional support, hobbies, substance use, and behavioural disengagement coping strategies were effective on the general health score (p < 0.05). Conclusion: As a result, most of the patients use many coping strategies, and the coping strategies used seem to be effective in their quality of life. For this reason, oncology nurses should include practices to strengthen coping strategies in patient care.