Challenges, Coping Strategies and Social Support among Cancer Patients in a Tertiary Institution, South-East, Nigeria

Abstract

Cancer ranks as the second largest cause of death globally. However, little is known about the challenges, coping mechanisms,
and social support among this vulnerable group in Nigeria. This study identified the challenges, coping mechanisms, and social 
support among cancer patients attending the oncology clinic at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu 
State. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study on 124 conveniently selected cancer patients. A researcher-developed 
questionnaire about the patients' challenges, coping mechanisms, and social support was used to gather data. Data was analyzed 
using frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation and presented in tables. The result showed that the major challenges 
of the respondents were severe pains and altered body image (92.7%), long waiting hours to be seen by the doctors (91.9%), and 
lack of finance to keep up with the treatment regimen (86.3). Coping strategies adopted by respondents were fervent prayers and 
religious activities (3.61±0.68), dieting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle (3.57±0.70), and having a fighting spirit (3.14±1.14). 
The major sources of social support were family (3.70±0.60), and spouse (3.36±1.03). The highest forms of support were 
emotional (3.66±0.60), physical (3.65±0.57) and financial (3.02±0.82) support. The majority of the patients face considerable 
challenges, adopted fervent prayers and religious activities, dieting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle as a coping strategy. Also 
the major social support identify among this group is from their family. It is therefore recommended the health care provider 
should increase family involvement in patients care and also enhance spiritual care.