Exploring the Correlation Between Anxiety Levels and Biophysiological Indicators in Cancer Patients for Enhanced Care Approaches

Objectives The study aimed to assess the leviel of anxiety among patients with cancer and to determine its association with selected physiological parameters, including heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and salivary amylase levels. Material and Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 148 patients diagnosed with cancer, selected through purposive sampling. Anxiety levels were assessed using the DASS-21 anxiety subscale. Physiological parameters, including heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and salivary amylase levels, were measured using standardized assessment tools. Results The findings revealed a weak but statistically significant positive correlation between anxiety and salivary amylase (ρ = 0.291, p <0.001), diastolic blood pressure (ρ = 0.259, p = 0.002), and respiratory rate (ρ = 0.358, p <0.001). These results indicate mild sympathetic activation associated with increasing anxiety levels. However, no significant correlation was observed between anxiety and heart rate or systolic blood pressure. Conclusion Bio-physiological markers such as salivary amylase, diastolic blood pressure, and respiration rate can serve as useful indicators of anxiety in cancer patients. Incorporating psychological care into cancer treatment is strongly supported by these findings, highlighting the importance of holistic care approaches.