The effectiveness of paradox therapy (PTC) on the fear of cancer recurrence and its trend over time in female cancer patients - Payesh (Health Monitor)
Mon, Sep 8, 2025
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Ethics code: IR.UT.PSYEDU.REC.1403.001
Clinical trials code: IRCT20240616062151N1

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1- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2- Internal Medicine Department, Hematologist and medical oncologist, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur university of medical sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
Abstract:   (35 Views)
 Objective(s): Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) remains a significant challenge for cancer survivors, persisting even after treatment and partial recovery. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Paradox Therapy (PTC) in reducing FCR and its trajectory over time in female cancer patients.
Methods: This clinical trial employed an experimental pre-test, post-test, and one-month follow-up design, with a control group and random assignment of participants to the experimental and control groups. The study population consisted of all female cancer patients who attended a specialized hematology and oncology center in Ahvaz, Iran, in 2023. A total of 52 participants were recruited using G*Power software. The Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCR) was used as the primary measure. The therapeutic intervention applied was Paradox Therapy. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics related to the study hypothesis, employing mixed-design ANOVA in SPSS-25. Additionally, assumptions for using repeated measures ANOVA were tested using the Shapiro-Wilk test and Mauchly’s test of sphericity.
Results: The findings indicated that PTC effectively reduced FCR, with sustained long-term effects. Cancer patients often endure considerable psychological stress due to the fear of recurrence. Understanding how to alleviate these fears effectively is crucial for enhancing their psychological well-being.
Conclusion: This study contributes to filling an important gap in the psychosocial dimensions of oncology by advancing our understanding of the impact of PTC on FCR in cancer patients. Comprehending the long-term effects of this approach can inform the development of aftercare programs and long-term support for cancer survivors.
 
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type of study: Clinical Trial | Subject: Health Psychologhy
Received: 2024/07/13 | Accepted: 2024/10/20 | ePublished ahead of print: 2025/09/8

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