Conceptualisation and Measurement of Resilience of Adults With Cancer: An Umbrella Review.

ABSTRACT:

Aims

To (1) clarify the key components of resilience of adults with cancer; (2) summarise and analyse the resilience measures used in this population; and (3) discuss future evaluation directions.

Design

An umbrella review.

Data sources

MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, Cochrane library and Epistemonikos were searched in December 2023.

Methods

The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines were followed for undertaking this umbrella review. Systematic and narrative reviews that defined resilience of adults with cancer and reported resilience measures, published in English, were included. The methodological quality was assessed using the JBI appraisal tool.

Results

Fourteen eligible reviews were included. Four key resilience components from various resilience conceptualisations were identified. Twenty resilience measures were used among cancer patients, with the 25-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale providing a relatively comprehensive assessment of individual resilience. Recommended future research with cancer patients includes assessing these resilience components: (1) available individual resources-key psychological factors that enhance individual resilience; (2) access to social resources-close interpersonal relationships, family cohesion and social support; (3) adaptive coping ability-problem-solving skills, emotional management strategies and experiences in managing adversity; (4) ability to regain mental health and well-being-the capacity to recover a relatively stable psychological state and promote positive psychological functioning.

Conclusion

The findings provide evidence for refining future resilience measurement in the adult cancer population. Examining the four key components of resilience with this population across cultures is warranted.

Impact

Understanding the key components of resilience of cancer patients can help healthcare professionals identify individuals who may need further support and facilitate early intervention or referral to psychosocial support services. The 25-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale is recommended over other tools for use in the cancer population.

Patient or public contribution

Patient or public involvement is not applicable in this study.

SUBMITTER: Luo D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12460980 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature