Objective:

To investigate variability in stress experiences, delineate latent stressor profiles, and examine associated influencing factors among patients with breast cancer receiving postoperative chemotherapy.

Approach:

• Study Design: An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was adopted, involving a cross-sectional survey and qualitative interviews.
• Participants: 232 patients with breast cancer receiving postoperative chemotherapy were recruited for the study.
• Data Collection: Participants completed a general information questionnaire and the Chinese version of the Stressor Scale for Breast Cancer Patients.
• Data Analysis: Latent profile analysis (LPA) identified subgroups based on stress experience, and multinomial logistic regression examined influencing factors. Thematic analysis was conducted on interview transcripts.

Key Findings:

• Four latent stress patterns identified: 'Low-stress Adaptive Profile' (26.3%), 'Moderate-High Physio-Psychological Distress Profile' (38.4%), 'High Medical Concerns Profile' (20.3%), and 'High-Stress Across Domains Profile' (15.1%).
• Age had a protective association against higher stress profiles; each additional year reduced the risk of classification in 'Moderate-High Physio-Psychological Distress Profile' (OR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.90-0.98) and 'High-Stress Across Domains Profile' (OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.86-0.96).
• Stage III breast cancer increased the likelihood of being in the 'High Medical Concerns Profile' (OR=2.20, 95% CI: 1.02-4.75) and 'High-Stress Across Domains Profile' (OR=4.80, 95% CI: 1.85-12.45).
• Lower family income (OR = 3.50, 95% CI: 1.25-9.80) and treatment-related complications (OR=2.80, 95% CI: 1.15-6.82) were associated with higher stress profiles.
• Qualitative interviews revealed three central themes: 'Intertwined and Impactful Multiple Stressors', 'Depletion and Dysregulation of Internal Psychological Resources', and 'Double-Edged Sword Effect of External Support Systems'.

Limitations:

• The study utilized convenience sampling, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
• The cross-sectional nature of the survey restricts the ability to infer causal relationships.