Supportive care needs of breast cancer survivors with different levels of fear of cancer recurrence: A cross-sectional survey study

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the supportive care needs of breast cancer survivors with nonclinical, subclinical, or clinical fear of cancer recurrence.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 385 breast cancer survivors consented and completed a set of online questionnaires. Supportive care needs were assessed by using the 34-item Supportive Care Needs Survey. Fear of cancer recurrence was assessed by using the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory.

Results: One hundred eighty-four (47.8%) participants reported nonclinical fear of cancer recurrence, 147 (38.2%) reported subclinical fear of cancer recurrence, and 54 (14.0%) reported clinical fear of cancer recurrence. Higher levels of fear of cancer recurrence were associated with higher levels of supportive care needs in five domains (β = 0.30-0.60, P < 0.001) after adjusting for places of residence, education, motherhood, and time since diagnosis. Among participants with nonclinical fears of cancer recurrence, the most common needs were in the 'Health care system/Information' domain (50.5%). Among participants with subclinical or clinical fear of cancer recurrence, the most common needs were in the 'Psychological' domain (85.7% and 96.3%, respectively).

Conclusion: Fear of cancer recurrence was associated with supportive care needs. The most common needs among participants with subclinical or clinical fears of cancer recurrence were psychological needs.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Fear of cancer recurrence; Needs assessment.