Fighting the Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Study on the Effectiveness of Metacognitive Therapy

Cancer has been the leading cause of death in Taiwan since 1982. The World Health Organization emphasizes that psychological and social care are as important as medical treatment in cancer care. Cancer patients experience multidimensional stress, including physical, psychological, and existential challenges, often accompanied by symptoms such as pain, anxiety, depression, insomnia, hopelessness, and fear of death.

Advances in cancer treatment, including early detection, precision medicine, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, have significantly improved survival rates. However, cancer survivors frequently experience ongoing physical, psychological, and social challenges.

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is one of the most prevalent and clinically significant concerns among cancer survivors, with prevalence rates ranging from 22% to 87% (Simard et al., 2013). Excessive FCR is associated with increased anxiety and depression, and may interfere with return to work and normal daily functioning.

FCR has become a major focus in psycho-oncology worldwide, as it significantly affects psychological well-being, quality of life, and health-related behaviors among cancer survivors.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of metacognitive therapy (MCT) in reducing FCR among cancer survivors. MCT targets maladaptive metacognitive processes such as worry and rumination, which are central to the maintenance of emotional distress.

The intervention is adapted from the Hong Kong version of the ConquerFear program and culturally modified for local use.

A randomized controlled design will be used to compare the effectiveness of the adapted ConquerFear intervention with a relaxation therapy control condition in reducing FCR.

In addition, the study will explore whether coping styles moderate the effectiveness of the intervention.

The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence for developing effective psychological interventions to improve mental health outcomes in cancer survivors.

Inclusion criteria

• Age 18 years or older.
• Patients with cancer classified as stage I, II, or III according to the TNM staging system who have completed primary cancer treatment.
• Ability to understand and read Chinese, with no significant cognitive impairment.
• A score of 13 or higher on a validated measure of fear of cancer recurrence.

Exclusion criteria

• Individuals with severe psychiatric disorders.
• Individuals who have difficulty communicating in Mandarin. -