Social support and quality of life in oncology patients with post-traumatic stress disorder: a cross-sectional study

Background: The potential mediating role of social support in the connection between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and quality of life among patients with cancer has not been explored in the currently available literature. Aims: This study aimed to explore the mediating role of social support in the relationship between PTSD and quality of life among oncology patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 343 cancer patients across three tertiary hospitals in Oman. Data were collected using validated, self-administered questionnaires. Mediation analysis was performed using the Sobel test. Findings: The average patient age was 47.3 years (SD 13.5) and 247 (72%) were female. Patients with PTSD had a lower perceived social support (mean 66.0; SD 10.8) and a poorer quality of life than those without PTSD. Social support played a mediating role in the relationship between PTSD and quality of life (P<0.01). Conclusion: Social support has emerged as a crucial mediator that potentially buffers the adverse effects of PTSD. Integrating educational programmes, healthcare provider training and technology-enabled support systems such as online support groups can help build a stronger social support framework. Policymakers and healthcare organisations should prioritise social support initiatives to enhance the wellbeing of patients with PTSD and cancer.