Satisfaction with information and its association with illness perception and quality of life in Indonesian breast cancer patients

Abstract

Purpose: The aims of this study were to assess the level of satisfaction with the information on illness and treatment among breast cancer patients, to explore its association with patients' illness perceptions and quality of life, and to provide recommendations for improvement of the information provided.

Methods: Seventy breast cancer patients at the Outpatient Surgical Oncology Clinic in Hasan Sadikin Hospital in Indonesia were recruited consecutively in a cross-sectional study design. They completed a demographic form, the Satisfaction with Cancer Information Profile, the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life.

Results: A considerable number of breast cancer patients (41-86 %) were dissatisfied with the amount and content of the information they received, particularly on the information about access to patient support groups and the impact of their treatment on long-term quality of life. The majority of patients were dissatisfied with the amount of written information provided. Patients who were satisfied with the type and timing of information received had stronger beliefs in personal control (β = -0.30, p < 0.05), lesser concerns about their health condition (β = -0.47, p < 0.01), and better understanding of their illness (β = -0.27, p < 0.05), and were less emotionally affected by their illness (β = -0.27, p < 0.05). In addition, the satisfied patients had a more positive perception of their general health (β = 0.31, p < 0.05) and better psychological health condition (β = 0.33, p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Satisfaction with the information provided is associated with better health outcomes, including more positive illness perceptions. This study appears to highlight the importance of providing adequate and sufficient information that meets the needs of patients.