Relationships among Type-D personality, symptoms and quality of life in patients with ovarian cancer receiving chemotherapy

Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Type-D personality and identify its relationships among the symptoms and quality of life in patients with ovarian cancer-receiving chemotherapy. Methods: A total of 150 patients with ovarian cancer undergoing chemotherapy were recruited between December 2015 and August 2016. The subjects were assessed using the Type-D Personality Scale-14, Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale–Short Form and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General questionnaire completed through a face-to-face interview. Results: About 56% of patients were classified into the Type-D personality group. This personality group showed statistically significantly higher symptoms and lower quality of life than the non-Type-D personality group. According to stepwise multiple regression, the most significant factor influencing quality of life was symptoms, followed by Type-D personality, performance status and cancer stage. Conclusions: The prevalence of Type-D personality in patients with ovarian cancer was high, and Type-D personality was significantly associated with a high symptom score and lower quality of life. Health professionals should consider Type-D personality in the assessment and intervention of symptoms and quality of life, along with performance status and cancer stage.