A survey on relationship between religion, spiritual wellbeing, hope and quality of life in patients with cancer

Abstract

Background:Religion, spiritual well- being and hope are concepts that are frequently used as a source of coping in patients with cancer. However, few studies have examined these factors with independent measurement devices. <br/>Aim: To determine the relationship between religion, spiritual wellbeing, hope and quality of life in cancer patients admitted to Omid's Hospital in Urmia city from August to January 2010. <br/>Method: In this cross sectional descriptive-analytical research, 164 patients with cancer were selected using sequential convenience sampling. Data were collected using demographic characteristics form, quality of life questionnaire EORTC QOL-C30, Ellison and Paloutzain spiritual well- being questionnaire, Duke University Religion Index, and the Herth Hope Index. Data was analyzed using SPSS Software (v.11.5), statistical test Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regressions were done and P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. <br/>Results: Spiritual well-being (r = 0.23, p <0.01) and hope (r = 0.23, p <0.01) had a significant positive relationship with the functional quality of life scale. Spiritual well- being (r = 0.34, p <0.01) and hope (r = 0.46, p <0.01) had a significant positive correlation with the overall quality of life. Between religious practices and the overall quality of life was significant correlation (r = 0.18, p <0.05). Also hope and religious beliefs explained 25/8 percent of changes in overall quality of life. <br/>Conclusion: There was a significant relationship between spiritual health, religious practices, hope and quality of life. Considering some factors such as being purposeful in the life, believing in God, doing religious practices and being optimistic about the future, while providing the health cares for patients with cancer might increase their quality of life.