Factors associated with psychological distress among Filipino women with breast cancer

In the Philippines, breast cancer is the primary cause of cancer-related death and the most common cancer among women worldwide. In addition to its physical effects, the condition significantly affects psychological health, with loneliness, uncertainty and low social support being associated with emotional distress.

The purpose of this study was to examine the associations of intolerance of uncertainty, social support and loneliness with psychological distress among Filipino women with breast cancer.

Using a descriptive-correlational design, a total of 121 patients with breast cancer were recruited from support groups and organisations in Metro Manila. Standardised instruments were used to collect the data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data.

Participants reported moderate to high levels of anxiety, stress and depression, along with moderate to high levels of intolerance of uncertainty and loneliness. Psychological distress variables were positively associated with intolerance of uncertainty and loneliness (P<.001), whereas social support was negatively associated with these outcomes (P<.001).

Psychological distress among women with breast cancer was associated with intolerance of uncertainty, loneliness and social support. These findings suggest that psychosocial factors may be relevant considerations in psychosocially informed cancer care for women with breast cancer.

Routine assessment of psychological distress, intolerance of uncertainty, loneliness and available social support may help identify women with breast cancer who are at risk of poor psychological outcomes. Integrating psychosocial assessment and supportive interventions into oncology care may promote more comprehensive, patient-centred care.