Mapping terminology and domains related to spirituality in oncology: scoping review

To map and synthesize how spirituality is defined in the oncology literature, identifying the key domains associated with the concept.

A scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidance. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and LILACS were searched, along with gray literature. Definitions and conceptual domains were synthesized using inductive thematic analysis, descriptive domain analysis, and a complementary content-analytic step.

A total of 104 studies were included in the review. Six core themes were identified: search for meaning and purpose, transcendence and connection to something greater, relational connectedness, inner peace and well-being, faith and belief in the sacred, and coping and existential resources. Definitions of spirituality varied widely, with earlier studies emphasizing religious frameworks and later ones adopting broader existential and psychosocial interpretations. Geographic trends highlighted cultural influences on the conceptualization of spirituality. The theme of meaning and purpose was the most consistently represented across geographic and temporal contexts.

Spirituality in oncology is a multidimensional construct shaped by cultural, temporal, and contextual factors. Although the theme of search for meaning and purpose was represented across the largest number of definitions in the complementary content analysis, establishing a common definition of spirituality remains elusive. These findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to spiritual care in oncology, recognizing how spirituality is conceptualized in relation to patient resilience and well-being.