Predicting well-being among breast cancer survivors

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychology
• Health Sciences

Background:

• Well-being in breast cancer survivors is influenced by various psychosocial factors.
• Previous research identified health care orientation, uncertainty, social support, resourcefulness, and self-esteem as potential predictors.
• A conceptual model integrating these factors was developed to understand their impact on survivor well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test a conceptual model predicting well-being in breast cancer survivors.
• To identify significant predictors of well-being, resourcefulness, and self-esteem in this population.
• To provide empirical evidence for interventions aimed at improving survivor outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study design was employed.
• A convenience sample of 84 disease-free breast cancer survivors who completed primary treatment was recruited.
• Participants completed six validated questionnaires measuring study variables, and multiple regression analyses were used.

Main Results:

• Uncertainty and social support significantly predicted resourcefulness (explaining 12% of variance).
• Resourcefulness and social support significantly predicted self-esteem (explaining 33% of variance).
• Social support, resourcefulness, and self-esteem collectively predicted well-being (explaining 42% of variance). Health care orientation was not significant.

Conclusions:

• Social support, resourcefulness, and self-esteem are key determinants of well-being in breast cancer survivors.
• The study confirmed hypotheses regarding the predictive model.
• Findings offer insights for clinical practice and future research directions to enhance survivor quality of life.