Level of Anxiety about Chemotherapy and its Relationship to Alleviation Strategies Used by Patients with Cancer at Latakia University Hospital

Abstract

The use of chemotherapy increases anxiety level among cancer patients, which negatively affects the course of cancer treatment. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the level of anxiety from chemotherapy and the alleviation strategies used among cancer patients at Latakia University Hospital. The study was conducted using a descriptive correlational approach. Data were collected from May 9, 2024 to August 9, 2024 using the Chemotherapy Anxiety Scale and a questionnaire about strategies used to alleviate anxiety. The sample consist of 100 patients receiving chemotherapy. They were selected using the convenience sampling method from those who were present at the Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy Center at Latakia University Hospital/Syria. The results showed that more than two-thirds of the participants had moderate level of anxiety, and there was a statistically significant relationship was found between anxiety level and the following alleviation methods: exercise, active breathing, yoga, spending time with family, engaging in activities with family and friends, praying and attending religious programs, hobbies, and learning new things to improve oneself. The study recommends that cancer patients and their families be educated about the psychological consequences of chemotherapy, and effective strategies to alleviate anxiety resulting from treatment.