Gender Differences in Perceived Stress and Coping Strategies among Colorectal Cáncer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to verify whether or not there are gender differences in the perception of stress and in coping strategies. It also was designed to identify coping strategies and clinical and socio-demographic variables that influence colorectal Cáncer patient stress in chemotherapy. Materials and methods:This is a cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. The sample was comprised of 100 patients: 47 women and 53 men, from the outpatient chemotherapy unit at the AC Camargo Cáncer Center in Brazil. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and the Coping Strategies Inventory were used. Statistical analysis was done using the t-test, Pearson correlation and linear regression with 95% confidence interval.Findings: Women had higher stress levels (p = 0.029), and there was no gender difference in coping strategies. In addition, a positive influence on perceived stress was identified in patients compromised by other diseases (β = 3.50, p = 0.00), females (β = 3.15, p = 0.04), widowers (β = 9, 19, p = 0.00), treatment with fluorouracil (β = 6.36, p = 0.00), patients using coping strategies (β = 0.70, p = 0.00), acceptance of responsibility (β = 0.45, p = 0.01) and stage III tumor (β = 4.03, p = 0.05).Conclusions: Because the oncology nursing team is in close and prolonged contact with patients, it should take into account each patient's gender and clinical and socio-demographic characteristics when providing care.