Anxiety and fear of cancer in premenopausal and menopausal women: A comparative review

Objective: The aim of the study is to determine the level of anxiety and fear of cancer in premenopausal and menopausal women who come to the obstetrics clinic for control. Method:The research is a cross-sectional study using the "Beck Anxiety Scale" and "Cancer Anxiety Scale" to evaluate anxiety and cancer anxiety in premenopausal and menopausal women who applied to the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Bozyaka Training and Research Hospital. The study data were collected between May and October 2021, with a total of 250 women, 125 in the menopausal period and 125 in the pre-menopausal period. Results:According to the Beck Anxiety Scale, the scores of the menopausal and premenopausal women differed significantly, t(215)=6.72, p<0.001. Accordingly, it was determined that the mean Beck anxiety score of women in the menopause period (38.06 +-7.55) was higher than the mean score of women in the premenopausal period (31.83+-6.11). According to the Cancer Anxiety Scale, it was observed that there was no significant difference in menopausal and premenopausal women, t(215)=0.88, p=0.379. Accordingly, cancer anxiety levels are similar in premenopausal and menopausal women. Conclusion:As a result, the fear of cancer is present in menopausal and premenopausal women, although at different levels. Nursing care is required for this. Keywords:Menopause, Premenopause, Cancer, Fear of Cancer, Cancer Anxiety Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Nursing