Ncog-33. Identifying Self-efficacy Differences in Adult Rare Cns Patients Participating in a Novel Web-based Natural History
Year: 2022
Type: conference-abstract
Abstract: INTRODUCTION A cancer diagnosis can diminish the sense of control and confidence that is essential for self-management of disease-related factors. Perceived control in coping effectively with the negative effects of a diagnosis has been correlated with improved mood, self-regulation, and decreased symptom distress. We looked at the relationship between self-efficacy in managing emotions (SEMEM) and symptom burden and mood-related interference (REM) in patients with rare CNS tumors. METHODS Adult patients (n=166) completed an online survey capturing demographic/clinical characteristics, symptom burden and REM (mood, relations with others, enjoyment of life, scores³ 2= moderate-severe(M-S)) from the MDASI-BT & MDASI-SP and PROMIS SEMEM (t-scores: low=< 40, high > 60). RESULTS Evaluated patients (74% female) had a median age of 45 (19-75). Ependymoma was most common (66%). The time from initial symptoms and surgery was 1-4 years. Low SEMEM was identified in 13%. SEMEM decreased as REM worsened in both locations (Brain: r= -0.61; Spine (r= -0.28). Most brain patients reporting low SEMEM also endorsed M-S REM (93%). Top M-S symptoms among brain patients associated with each SEMEM level included: feeling distressed, sadness, and fatigue. Low SEMEM correlated with a longer time to presenting symptoms among brain patients (r= -0.26) and lower education among spine patients (r=0.29). Interestingly, sex (women 92%) among brain patients was associated with low SEMEM, while high SEMEM patients were more likely to be married (82%). Spine patients not currently on treatment reported high SEMEM. CONCLUSION We found that patients' confidence in managing emotions worsened with severe mood-related interference. Low self-efficacy was linked to prolonged time between symptoms and initial surgery, education, and gender while treatment and marital status were associated with high self-efficacy. Identifying characteristics associated with self-efficacy can lead to targeted behavioral interventions mitigating distress in adjusting to one’s disease.
Source: Neuro-Oncology
Authors: Alvina Acquaye, Elizabeth Vera, Alexa Christ, Kathleen Wall, Mark Gilbert, Terri Armstrong
Language: English
Topic: Cancer survivorship and care
Subfield: Oncology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4309016318