Factors Affecting the Perception of Dyspnea in Patients with Cancer

• Published in: Journal of Japan Society of Nursing Research Vol. 46; no. 2; pp. 2_153 - 2_164
• Main Authors: Hashimoto, Harumi, Imai, Youko, Honda, Masako, Kyota, Ayumi, Hujimoto, Keiko, Kanda, Kiyoko
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Japanese
• Published: Japan Society of Nursing Research 20.07.2023
• Subjects: Assessment; Cancer; Dyspnea; Influencing factors; Subjective evaluation
• ISSN: 2188-3599; 2189-6100
• DOI: 10.15065/jjsnr.20220812194

Objective: This study aims to identify factors causing dyspnea in patients with cancer. Methods: We administered a questionnaire survey to 279 patients, of whom 241 responded (a valid response rate of 92.3%). Additionally, we conducted multiple regression analysis and structural analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) to analyze the relationship between dyspnea (TDSC) and physical status factors (PS, stage, respiratory substrate changes, and other symptoms), psychosocial factors (BCWI and FACT-G), and coping factors (coping behavior, experience of receiving guidance on coping methods, and consultants). Results: The findings of the multiple regression analysis revealed significant differences between the six factors: PS, stage, respiratory substrate changes, anxiety, quality of life, and experience of receiving guidance on coping methods in the total TDSC score, with all but stage being compatible in the structural ANCOVA. Conclusions: The development and exacerbation of dyspnea in patients with cancer were influenced by PS, respiratory substrate changes, anxiety, quality of life, and experience of receiving guidance on coping methods, with anxiety having the strongest correlation. This finding highlights the importance of comprehensive nursing support for the patients' both physical and mental needs.