Predictors of Self-Efficacy for Coping With Cancer Among Patients Receiving Digital Health Counseling: The Role of Coping Ability and Clinical Timing Factors.

BACKGROUND: Coping ability and self-efficacy are important psychological resources in cancer care, yet their relationship remains underexplored, particularly among patients receiving digital health counseling. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine the relationship between coping ability and self-efficacy for coping with cancer, and to identify potential mediating effects of demographic and clinical factors among patients receiving digital health counseling. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among patients undergoing intravenous chemotherapy at the Hospital of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam, between September 1, 2023, and November 30, 2024. Participants completed questionnaires, including the Measure of Current Status and the Cancer Behavior Inventory - Brief Version. Data analysis involved multiple regression with mediation modeling to examine associations and underlying pathways. RESULTS: Coping ability with treatment was a significant factor influencing self-efficacy for coping with cancer (B = 0.83, SE = 0.11, β = .46, t = 7.28, P < .001). Time of hospital admission had a modest positive effect on self-efficacy (B = 0.16, SE = 0.08, β = .15, t = 2.13, P = .03), and time since first signs/symptoms predicted time of hospital admission (B = 0.33, SE = 0.06, t = 6.12, P < .001). Coping ability was associated with self-efficacy. Participants reported high motivation to improve their health condition and strong understanding of benefits and strategies for using digital health education. CONCLUSIONS: Coping ability may have a central and independent role in shaping patients' self-efficacy in managing cancer-related challenges.