Effects of Symptom Burden, Self-Efficacy, and Stigma on Cancer Coping in Patients with primary Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to identify effects of symptom burden, self-efficacy, and stigma on cancer coping in patients with primary non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) undergoing chemotherapy.Methods: Data were collected from 140 patients receiving chemotherapy for NSCLC at the outpatient clinic of the respiratory department of a tertiary hospital in City B between February 3 and April 30, 2025.The data were analyzed using SPSS/WIN 28.0, and independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson' s correlation coefficient, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis were applied.Results: Intrapersonal coping was found to be significantly correlated with symptom severity, symptom interference with daily life, stigma, and self-efficacy.Meanwhile, interpersonal coping was significantly correlated with symptom interference, stigma, and self-efficacy.Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that self-efficacy, symptom interference, and age were significant predictors of intrapersonal coping.In addition, marital status, selfefficacy, and stigma were identified as significant predictors of interpersonal coping.Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of psychosocial and symptom-related factors, particularly self-efficacy, in supporting effective coping strategies among NSCLC patients undergoing chemotherapy.Tailored interventions that enhance self-efficacy and address stigma and symptom management may contribute to improved coping outcomes.