METHODS
The research was carried out on 105 patients diagnosed with
cancer in the Daily Chemotherapy Units and Cancer
Polyclinic of Tülay Aktaş Oncology Hospital during July and
August 2007. The forms containing patients' demographic
information were prepared by the researcher and Functional
Living Index-Cancer and Cancer Patient Social Support Scale
were used as the data tools. Data were collected during personal
interviews with patients, and were evaluated on computer
using SPSS 13.0 packet program. Mean, percentage,
Pearson correlation, chi-square, independent sample t test,
and Kruskal-Wallis test were used in the statistical analysis.
RESULTS
The mean age of patients was 46.3±12.8, 59.0% of which
were women. The average Functional Living Index-Cancer
score was poor (92.3±7.2), but the average Cancer Patient
Social Support Scale score was good (142.4±14.2). Only the
general well-being subscale of the Functional Living Index-
Cancer was associated with each subscale of the Cancer
Patient Social Support Scale, and the statistical correlation
was significant.
CONCLUSION
Although cancer patients had impaired functional status, their
social support was good. We suggest social support is as beneficial
as care for cancer patients' general well-being.
Keywords: Cancer; functional living; social support
