Investigating the Relationship between Spirituality and Quality of Life in Cancer Patients: A Narrative Review Study

Introduction: Cancer is one of the leading causes of human death. Despite considerable progress in diagnosis, treatment, care, and outcomes in the last decade, cancer negatively influences patients’ quality of life. Spirituality and religiosity are reported as important in coping with cancer. This study aims to review the studies which have been conducted on the Investigate the Relationship between Spirituality and Quality of Life in Cancer Patients. Method: In this narrative review study, the search of cross-sectional articles was conducted by using Persian and English keywords: cancer, tumor, neoplasm, quality of life, spirituality, religion and Iran in databases PubMed, scopuse, science direct, Google scholar, Sid, web of science and magiran in the last five years. By applying inclusion criteria and quality review, out of ۷۳۰ selected articles, ۱۶ related articles were reviewed and analyzed. Results: The findings of the reviews showed that the results of all the reviewed studies showed a positive and significant relationship between spirituality and quality of life in cancer patients. Conclusion: Based on the results of reviewed studies, which show that there is a positive and significant relationship between spirituality and quality of life in cancer patients. It seems that paying attention to the factors that improve the quality of life, including spirituality in cancer patients, can lead to adaptation to the disease and improve the treatment process. Therefore, it is suggested that in addition to the physical care program, spiritual care programs be included in the care plan of these patients.

Keywords:

quality of life , spirituality , cancer