The Role of Gender in the Quality of Life of Cancer Survivors: Health Literacy and Cognitive Functioning

Abstract

Background: In recent decades, timely diagnosis, advancements in the pharmaceutical industry, and the introduction of new treatments have led to a significant increase in the number of cancer survivors. Just as the physical and mental well-being of cancer patients is essential, providing psychological care for survivors is equally important. Objectives: In the realm of community mental health, cognitive function, and health literacy play crucial roles in the quality of life of cancer survivors. Furthermore, recognizing and addressing gender differences in this context can be a valuable means of enhancing and improving survivors' quality of life. Methods: This study employed a descriptive correlational design involving 437 cancer survivors (319 female and 118 male) from the Cancer Research Center of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (Shohada-E-Tajrish Hospital). Participants, who had completed their last treatment at least one year prior, volunteered to participate between September 1 and January 30, 2022. They responded to three assessments: The Cognitive Failure Questionnaire, the cancer health literacy Test, and the quality of life in adult cancer survivors survey. Results: Multiple regression analysis showed that about 58% of the quality of life of cancer survivors is explained by cognitive function failure. Still, in the group of men, 30% of the quality of life can be predicted based on insufficient cognitive function and health literacy. Conclusions: Based on the findings, it was emphasized on cognitive function training and health literacy in both genders to increase the life of patients with cancer.