Author Name: – Divyani Butola and Seema Singh | Date:- 8th May, 2025
Abstract
Background: Spiritual Distress (SD), the inability to find meaning and connection with self, others or a higher power, is a major concern among cancer patients. Few Indian studies have assessed SD, with none using the SpiDiScl, a tool designed in Hindi language to measure spiritual distress.
Aim: To assess spiritual distress in a cross-section of Indian cancer patients. Method: 101 adult, cancer patients in a cancer centre of the National Capital Region were selected for the study. Their SD was assessed using the SpiDiScl. Their age, diagnosis and socioeconomic status using the BG Prasad Socio-Economic Status Classification were noted. Statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Software Version 2.
Result: The participants reported moderate levels of SD (M 36.8) with highest levels in patients with rectal cancer (M=45.31) and lung cancer (M=40.63), and in those from lower socioeconomic background (M=41.7).
Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for integrating culturally appropriate spiritual assessment into routine care of Indian oncology patients, with the help of appropriate tools and the need for properly trained staff, counsellors and spiritual guides
