The interplay of social support and spirituality in active cancer treatment: A mediation model of quality of life

Background Quality of life (QoL) in patients undergoing cancer treatment is shaped by psychosocial and existential factors beyond physical symptoms. This study examined the association between perceived social support and QoL in patients receiving active oncologic therapy and tested whether spirituality mediates this relationship.Methods This cross-sectional study included patients receiving active cancer treatment. Perceived social support was assessed using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), QoL using the WHOQOL-BREF, and spirituality using the WHOQOL-SRPB.Results The final sample comprises 182 adults undergoing cancer treatment. Higher perceived social support was associated with better overall QoL across all domains. Spirituality correlated strongly with overall QoL (r = 0.568; p < 0.001), especially psychological well-being and social relationships. Path analysis showed direct and indirect effects of social support on QoL through spirituality, indicating partial mediation across domains, strongest in social relationships.Conclusion Findings highlight the importance of integrating social and spiritual dimensions into comprehensive, patient-centered oncology care to improve overall well-being.