Association Between Self-Efficacy and Performance Status Among Cancer Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between self-efficacy and performance status among cancer patients. Additionally, it examined the influence of socio-demographic variables on both constructs.

Methods and Materials: A descriptive correlational study was conducted from October 2024 to June 2025 at two oncology centers in Al-Hillah, Iraq. A convenience sample of 325 cancer patients was selected using non-probability sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising three sections: socio-demographic characteristics, the General Self-Efficacy Scale (6 items), and the Zubrod Performance Status (ZPS) scale. Validity was ensured through expert review, and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS-23. Descriptive and inferential statistics (Kruskal-Wallis, Pearson correlation, linear regression) were applied, with a significance level set at p ≤ 0.05.

Findings: Of the 325 participants, 66.5% had high self-efficacy, while 72.9% showed high functional performance (low ZPS scores). A strong negative relationship was found between self-efficacy and ZPS (β = –0.798, p < 0.001), indicating that higher self-efficacy predicted better functional status. Socio-demographic variables such as education, income, and occupation were significantly associated with both self-efficacy and performance status. Age was negatively correlated with self-efficacy and positively correlated with ZPS.

Conclusion: Self-efficacy significantly influences the functional capacity of cancer patients. Enhancing patients' belief in their ability to manage disease-related challenges could improve performance outcomes. Integrating self-efficacy training into psycho-oncological care is recommended.