Distinct psycho-oncological support inclinations and needs in patients with cancer: A large sample latent class analysis approach

Background In patients with cancer, the routine recording of distress symptoms has been widely established in recent years. Psycho-oncological support has proven to reduce distress and increase quality of life. Despite high levels of distress as well as physical and emotional challenges in patients with cancer, a significant proportion forgoes psycho-oncological services. Methods A cross-sectional retrospective evaluation was carried out. Latent class analysis was used to examine the relationship between distress, physical and emotional challenges, and desire for psycho-oncological services in 2191 patients with cancer. Results Latent class analysis revealed four homogeneous subgroups: a) patients with high distress, high physical and low emotional challenges and no desire for psycho-oncology, b) patients with high distress, low physical and high emotional challenges and no desire for psycho-oncology, c) patients with high distress, high physical and emotional challenges and a desire for psycho-oncology, d) patients with low distress, low physical and emotional challenges and no desire for psycho-oncology. Conclusion The identification of these subgroups of patients with cancer is useful for health care providers in order to focus their efforts in patients with cancer. It might contribute to a more tailored treatment offer for specific subgroups whose needs have so far been insufficiently met. Keywords Cancer-related distress Distress thermometer and problem list Psycho-oncology Latent class analysi