Investigation of chemotherapy associated peripheral neuropathy according to biopsychosocial model

The aim of this descriptive cross-sectional study is to examine the relationship between chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and biological health, perceived well-being, and social well-being within the context of a biopsychosocial model. The study was carried out in Gülhane Training and Research Hospital Oncology Clinic and Polyclinics between 20 September-2021 and 24 March 2023. The study sample consisted of 109 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Patient Information Form Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Scale (EQRTC QLQ CIPN 20), Perceived Well-being Scale and Social Well-Being Scale were used to collect research data. Pearson correlation test, Independent sample t test and ANOVA test were performed in SPSS 23 program. As a result of the analysis, a weak negative correlation was found between the sensory, motor and autonomic sub-dimensions of the EQRTC QLQ CIPN 20 and the physical sub-dimensions of the Perceived Well-being Scale (p˂0.05). A weak negative correlation was found between the autonomic sub-dimension of the EQRTC QLQ CIPN 20 and the social sub-dimension of the Perceived Well-being Scale (p˂0.05). EQRTC QLQ CIPN20 score was found to be higher in those with high school and higher education (compared to primary school and below) (p˂0.05). As the age increased, the perceived well-being level was found to be higher in men, those who did not receive immunotherapy in addition to chemotherapy, those who did not have additional stressors, those who did not work, those who received care support from their spouses at home, and those who lived with their spouses (p˂0.05). As age and number of cures increased, the level of social well-being was found to be higher in those who did not have stem cell transplantation, did not have additional stressors, had primary school education and below, and lived alone (p˂0.05). A holistic evaluation of CIPN symptoms in terms of biological, psychological and social symptoms is recommended. Keywords: Chemotherapy, cancer, peripheral neuropathy, biopsychosocial model