The relationship between optimism, hope and spirituality with severity of symptoms in breast cancer patients in Tehran

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between optimism, hope and spirituality on the severity of breast cancer symptoms.

The method of this study was descriptive-correlational and the population under study was 3722 patients with breast cancer in Tehran in 1396 who referred to hospitals in Tehran. Using the principle of James Stevens (2002), which considers the appropriate sample size as q15> n> q5, where q is the number of questionnaire questions and n the sample size, at least 75 patients with breast cancer were estimated. They were selected through available sampling method. The Shire & Carver (1985) optimism questionnaires, Hope Snyder, Harris, Anderson, Holleran, Irving et al (1991), Parsian & Downing (2009) spirituality questionnaires and severity of breast cancer symptoms were completed through clinical screening. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and multivariate regression analysis.

The results showed that regression coefficients of severity of breast cancer symptoms with optimism (β = 0.40, P = 0.001), hope (β = 0.28, P = 0.008) and spirituality (β= 0.20, P = 0.025) is negative.

Given the importance of optimism and hope as well as spirituality in cancer patients, it is necessary to hold courses and workshops in health centers to increase optimism and hope for treatment as well as to develop and nurture spirituality in patients.