An Investigation of Spiritual Well-Being of Individuals with Cancer in Türkiye

J Relig Health. 2025 Oct;64(5):3996-4009. doi: 10.1007/s10943-025-02356-w. Epub 2025 Jun 12.

Abstract

In illnesses such as cancer, which require prolonged and intensive treatment, patients' spiritual well-being plays a critical role in enhancing their sense of life meaning and may positively influence treatment outcomes. This descriptive study evaluated the spiritual well-being of patients with cancer. The sample consisted of 300 cancer patients receiving care in the medical oncology service and outpatient chemotherapy unit of a training and research hospital in Ankara between February and May 2024. Data were collected using an introductory information form and the Spiritual Well-Being Scale. A statistically significant relationship was found between the subscale scores and patients' gender, education level, income level, diagnostic status, and time since diagnosis (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the study showed that cancer patients demonstrated moderate levels of meaning and peace and high levels of belief. These findings indicate a potential need for interventions that address the spiritual and religious care needs of cancer patients following diagnosis.

Keywords: Cancer patient; Nursing; Spiritual well-being.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms* / psychology
  • Spirituality*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Turkey
  • Young Adult