Abstract
Objective: comparing the perception of stress among patients with colorectal cancer undergoing chemotherapy with thosein pre-colonoscopy period. Methods: a comparative descriptive study developed with 144 people receiving chemotherapyand 100 patients in the pre-colonoscopy period, using biosocial and clinical data, Stress Assessment Tool and Perceived StressScale. Results: a predominance of females (73%), aged over 65 (50%) were predominant for the pre-colonoscopy periodpatients. In patients receiving chemotherapy, gender parity with ages ranging from 40-64 years (68.1%) was observed. Precolonoscopypatients showed higher perceived stress compared to those receiving chemotherapy (p <0.001). Conclusion:the phase of diagnostic definition represents greater stress to patients in comparison to period of treatment, even despitethe characteristic manifestations of chemotherapy.
Highlights
Colorectal cancer is a type of curable and treatable cancer when diagnosed in its early stages[1,2]
Subjects undergoing chemotherapy were approached in the Cancer Institute of São Paulo, while patients in precolonoscopy period were approached at the University Hospital of the University of São Paulo
These moments are considered stressful for patients because they relate to death. In this period, coping changes occur, bringing forth positive expectations aimed at healing, hoping to return to “normal,” changes that facilitate the treatment and minimize stress[18]. This context may partly explain the results found when comparing perceived stress among patients undergoing chemotherapy and those in the diagnostic phase, as stress perceived by individuals in the pre-colonoscopy procedure phase is higher when compared to the stress of patients undergoing chemotherapy for colorectal cancer
Summary
Colorectal cancer is a type of curable and treatable cancer when diagnosed in its early stages[1,2]. The World Health Organization advises the implementation of public preventive measures to combat different types of cancer, either by health promotion with early diagnosis by screening for diseases, or in the treatment of primary and/or secondary tumors[3]. The possible or confirmed diagnosis of any type of malignant neoplasm causes emotional impacts on individuals, because they represent a progressive and painful journey[4]. The diagnosis of colorectal cancer stands out in particular because colonoscopy is an uncomfortable examination for the patient; it can trigger feelings of vulnerability, shame, fear and pain even prior to the procedure[5], as well as apprehension and fears about the results thereof. When analyzing the multimodality of treatment, we highlight chemotherapy because of the associated side effects, which may include alopecia, cardiac and gastrointestinal alterations, nausea, weak immune system, social isolation and changes in their daily life routine, among other impacts on a patient’s quality of life[3,4]
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