Hidden Resources for Cancer Patients: Interactions between Spirituality, Religiosity, and Selected Factors Influencing Patient's Self-Care.

Introduction: Religiosity and spirituality (SpR) can be vital in helping people face life's challenges. While spiritual care (SpC) is used in palliative care, this study explores effects for cancer patient's self-care (SC) in earlier stages. Methods: Using validated instruments, we surveyed patients about SpR (SpNQ-20, GrAw-7, SpREUK), and factors of SC: well-being (WHO-5, L-1), self-efficacy (ASKU), ability to change (PIAC), as well as lay etiology and the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Data were analyzed using SPSS according to a three-step plan with descriptive methods, Spearman correlations, and mediation analysis. Results: We included 108 patients (41 female, 63 males, four no data) with a median age of 66 years (range 30–89). Welch tests show a less well-being, self-efficacy and ability to change in our study population (p < 0.05) compared to non-cancer controls. The Mann-Whitney U test documented that patients who described themselves as spiritual and/or religious (S/R+) had a higher level of well-being and CAM use (p < 0.05) compared to those who did not. S/R self-categorization had no impact on PIAC and ASKU. Perceptual spirituality (GrAw-7) correlates with all factors of SC (p < 0.05): WHO-5 (rs = 0.25), PIAC (rs = 0.25), ASKU (rs = 0.30), L-1 (rs = 0.35), and CAM use (rs = 0.39, p < 0.001). Mediation analysis demonstrates that the impact of spirituality on SC (CAM use) is mediated by religiosity, GrAw-7, and spiritual needs. Conclusion: Spirituality and hidden spiritual needs are a valuable resource. By integrating SpC early in the treatment, we can create support ways and improve SC, well-being, and coping. Plain Language Summary: This study looks at how spirituality and religious beliefs can support cancer patients in managing their health, even in the early stages of their illness. We asked 108 patients about their spirituality to see how these beliefs might influence their well-being and use of alternative treatments, such as vitamins or homeopathy. The results showed that patients who considered themselves spiritual or religious generally reported feeling better and were more likely to use alternative therapies compared to those who did not identify this way. Additionally, a sense of spirituality, including emotions like awe or gratitude, was linked to better overall well-being and self-care. The findings suggest that spirituality can be an important resource for cancer patients, offering support beyond conventional treatments. By addressing spiritual needs early in the treatment process, healthcare providers may help improve a patient's ability to care for themselves and maintain emotional balance. This research emphasizes the value of integrating SpC into cancer treatment, regardless of a patient's specific religious beliefs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]