Fear of Cancer Recurrence and Coping in Young Breast Cancer Survivors: A Secondary Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is a disruptive concern among young breast cancer survivors (YBCS). Although coping strategies may help mitigate FCR, coping in YBCS remains understudied. This study examined associations between FCR and coping among YBCS and explored whether coping patterns varied across sociodemographic characteristics.

METHODS

This cross-sectional secondary analysis used baseline data from a phase III randomized controlled trial. A purposive sample of 89 post-treatment YBCS was recruited from the Midwestern US between 2021 and 2023 to complete a self-reported survey to assess FCR, coping, mental health, and sociodemographic characteristics. Multiple linear regression and partial correlation analyses were performed to examine the associations between coping and FCR.

RESULTS

Greater FCR was associated with avoidant coping (p = 0.0003). Emotion-focused coping was more common among Black than White YBCS (p = 0.0011) and among those experiencing financial strain (p = 0.0024). Better mental health was associated with less avoidant coping (p = < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Greater FCR was associated with avoidant coping and poorer mental health. Longitudinal assessment of FCR and coping may help identify YBCS who could benefit from supportive interventions during survivorship.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT05364450.