Psychosocial Needs of Breast Cancer Survivors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Abstract

Background: Despite the high prevalence of breast cancer, there is limited understanding of the psychosocial needs of cancer survivors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Methods: A survey was conducted to assess the psychosocial needs among 205 breast cancer survivors in the UAE and the association of various socio-demographics and clinical characteristics with the psychosocial needs were analysed. Results: The informational needs were the highest (mean - 27.99 ± 11.02) among the study participants compared to other psychosocial needs. Healthcare specialists were the most preferred source of information for all the psychosocial needs. Individuals currently receiving treatment (p-0.006) and who had longer years of survival (p-0.006) had significantly higher informational concerns. Social and financial concerns were significantly higher in expats (p<0.001), individuals currently receiving treatment (p<0.001) and individuals with longer years of survival (p<0.001). Conclusion: The study shows that there are unmet psychosocial needs among the breast cancer survivors in the UAE and the needs differ based on demographic and clinical characteristics.