related self-efficacy in Iranian women with breast cancer

Aims: Self-efficacy refers to an individual’s belief in his or her capacity to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments. Past studies have shown that as a person ages the self efficacy probably increases. Iranian women with breast cancer are one decade younger than their western counterparts, so we want to investigate the level of cancer related self efficacy in Iranian context. The aim of this study is to describe self efficacy of Iranian women with breast cancer as well as its Demographic and Medical predictors. Method: This is a descriptive cross sectional study. Sample size was 91 breast cancer patients referring for chemotherapy to one of the biggest oncology centers in northwest of Iran. Demographic and Medical characteristics in addition to cancer related self efficacy using cancer behavior inventory (33item) was assessed. Data analysis was completed using SPSS software version13. Descriptive and Regression analysis were used to describe Demographic - Medical characteristics and predictors of cancer related self efficacy in these women Result: Accepting cancer /maintaining positive attitude had highest mean score of total 7 subscales of cancer behavior inventory and the least mean score belonged to seeking social support. Only Patients education and time since diagnosis were associated with Iranian women s self efficacy related to cancer. Conclusion: The Data suggest considering social support for Iranian breast cancer patient and also regarding education and time passed since diagnosis is necessary in assessing self efficacy in breast cancer patients.

کلیدواژه ها:

Breast cancer ، Self efficacy ، Iranian women