Determination of stigma perception and spiritual well-being in individuals with cancer

Master's Program with Thesis, 2024. This study is a descriptive research conducted with the aim of determining stigma perception and spiritual well-being in cancer patients undergoing inpatient treatment at an oncology clinic. The population of the study consists of cancer patients receiving inpatient treatment at the Medical Oncology ward of Ankara Gazi University Health Research and Application Center. The study was conducted between September 20, 2023, and December 01, 2023, and involved a total of 235 patients. Data for the research were collected using the "Patient Introduction Information Form," the "Cancer Stigma Scale," and the "Spiritual Well-Being Scale." Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, analysis of variance, correlation analysis, and Bonferroni Test for determining differences between groups were employed in the evaluation of the data. According to the results of the study, the average total score for Cancer Stigma in cancer patients was found to be 38.71±12.03 (min: 23-max: 82). Significant differences were observed in the average stigma scores of cancer patients based on their ages, genders, marital and employment statuses, education levels, and previous encounters with cancer diagnoses. The average Spiritual Well-Being score of participating cancer patients was found to be 111.60±17.35 (min: 57-max: 142). The Spiritual Well-Being scores of cancer patients were influenced by age groups, place of residence, educational status, economic status, and religious beliefs. In the study, a low-level negative relationship was found between the Cancer Stigma Scale scores and Spiritual Well-Being Scale scores of cancer patients (p < 0.05). There is a statistically significant negative correlation between Cancer Stigma Scale scores and Spiritual Well-Being Scale scores (r: -0.234, p: 0.000). As Spiritual Well-Being increases, Cancer Stigma Scale scores decrease. Regarding the sub-dimension of the Spiritual Well-Being Scale, harmony with nature exhibited a low-level negative relationship with the total score of the Cancer Stigma Scale, social isolation, and discrimination, while showing a moderate-level positive relationship with guilt and quality. In conclusion, a mild relationship was identified between cancer patients' stigma perception and their spiritual well-being. In light of these results, it is recommended to provide counseling on reducing stigma perception, supportive services, and supportive services in the spiritual domain for cancer patients.