Gender Comparison of Psychological Reaction Between Breast Cancer Survivors and Their Spouses

Abstract

Background: Scant evidence exists among the different psychological issues between patients with breast cancer and their spouses. The objective of our study was to develop the measuring instrument testing psychological reaction and compare the difference in psychological reaction between patients with breast cancer and their spouses during the period of diagnosis and treatment.Method: The semi-structured interview guideline was guided by the psychological stress model. In-depth interviews were conducted among patients with breast cancer and their spouses. Qualitative data was used to establish the item pool for the psychological reaction. Delphi method was used for item modifications. The items were conducted to find common factors through exploration factor analysis. Comparing the differences of common factors through t-test between patients with breast cancer and their spouses.Results: Five couples were interviewed directed by the semi-structured interview guideline. About 38 items were reserved to formulate the questionnaire through the Delphi method. A total of 391 respondents (216 patients and 175 spouses) were recruited to complete the questionnaire. Two common structures were found through exploration factor analysis, which was named as reaction to role and body image change and negative coping reaction. The t-test found that the dimension of reaction to role and body image change (95% CI = 2.34–5.01, p < 0.001) reflects the difference between patients with breast cancer and their spouses.Conclusion: The reactions to role and body image change between patients with breast cancer and their spouses are different during the period of diagnosis and treatment. Clinical workers should pay attention to the different reactions and help couples deal with breast cancer smoothly.

Post-Operative Care of the Cancer Patient: Emphasis on Functional Recovery, Rapid Rescue, and Survivorship

“…Research on gender differences in response to a cancer diagnosis has gained significant attention in recent years [ 73 ]. While cancer affects both men and women, studies have highlighted distinct variations in how individuals of different genders cope with and respond to the diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship experiences [ 74 ]. The researchers found a few key areas of difference.…”

“…The researchers found a few key areas of difference. Men are less likely to express their emotions than women, and women are more inclined to seek support from family members or friends, whereas men are more dependent on healthy spouses [ 74 ]. While gender differences are significant, they should not overshadow the importance of individualized care.…”