Perception of fall risk among cancer survivors receiving Radiotherapy/Chemotherapy in China: A latent profile analysis

Background Accurate perception of fall risk is imperative for functional rehabilitation and quality of life among cancer survivors receiving radiotherapy/chemotherapy; however, current levels of awareness remain suboptimal. This study aimed to investigate the current status of fall risk perception among this population in China, identify its latent profiles and associated factors, and establish a theoretical basis for targeted nursing interventions. Methods Convenience sampling was conducted. A total of 534 cancer survivors undergoing radiotherapy/chemotherapy were recruited from a tertiary hospital in Zibo City between June and September 2025. The study employed a general information questionnaire, the Fall Risk Perception Scale, the Social Support Rating Scale, the Health Literacy Management Scale, and the Self-Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease Scale. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was employed to identify heterogeneous subgroups based on perceived fall risk, and logistic regression analysis was subsequently used to examine factors associated with subgroup membership. Results Among the 534 enrolled cancer survivors, LPA classified perceived fall risk into three distinct categories: the Low-level Perceptually Deficient Group (22.85%), the Medium-level Condition-dependent Group (49.25%), and the High-level Self-awareness Group (27.90%). Multivariate analysis identified several modifiable factors significantly associated ( P < 0.05) with these profiles. These factors were categorized as physiological health factors (duration of illness, tumor stage, hypertension, fall history, and vision), psychological and behavioral factors (self-assessment of health status, self-efficacy, and health literacy), and social and environmental factors (marital status, education level, caregiver, social support, and use of walking aids). Conclusion Cancer survivors undergoing radiotherapy/chemotherapy demonstrated an above-average perception of fall risk, with significant heterogeneity observed. Healthcare providers should implement personalized interventions tailored to the distinct fall risk perception characteristics of different subgroups to enhance fall risk perception and ultimately reduce the incidence of falls.