Influencing factors of meaning in life in patients with advanced lung cancer undergoing radiochemotherapy: A cross-sectional survey.

AIM

To examine the factors that influence meaning in life (MiL) in patients with advanced lung cancer who are undergoing radiochemotherapy.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, multivariate stepwise regression analysis and structural equation modeling were used to examine factors influencing MiL in 231 patients with lung cancer in an oncology department of a tertiary hospital in China. Their mood state, family care, social support, and psychological distress were measured.

RESULTS

Sex, marital status, and family income significantly affected MiL (p < .05). MiL was significantly correlated (p < .01) with psychological distress (r = -.203), and most significantly (F = 66.883, p < .01; 46.2% of MiL) with mood state (r = -.631), family care (r = .384), and social support (r = .410).

CONCLUSION

To enhance MiL, nurses need to consider patients' mood states and family/social support, as well as tailor patient care toward different sexes and backgrounds. Clinical staff should pay attention to the psychological changes, family care, and social support of patients with advanced lung cancer.