Relationship Between Self-Efficacy and Self-Esteem in Patients With Cancer

Background: Given the negative impact of cancer on the quality of life, low self-efficacy and self-esteem are common in the patients suffering from cancer. This study aims to determine the relationship between self-efficacy and self-esteem in these patients.  Methods: This study was descriptive and cross-sectional and was conducted in Ayatollah Khansari Hospital in Arak. The obtained data were collected from 160 eligible patients diagnosed with cancer using Coopersmith self-esteem inventory and the strategies used by people to promote health and then analyzed in SPSS V. 20.  Results: Spearman correlation showed a significant relationship between the subscales and the total score of self-efficacy and self-esteem score (P<0.05). Also, linear regression analysis revealed that self-efficacy could significantly predict self-esteem (P<0.05).  Conclusion: Self-efficacy had a direct relationship with self-esteem. By improving self-efficacy, self-esteem will increase and lead to more self-care compliance and initiative in cancer patients.