Self-Advocacy and Influencing Factors in Post-Surgical Breast Cancer Patients: A Latent Profile Analysis

Purpose This study aimed to identify latent profiles of self-advocacy among post-surgical breast cancer patients and to explore associated influencing factors, thereby providing a basis for targeted interventions. Methods A total of 350 post-surgical breast cancer patients were recruited through convenience sampling at Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between July 2023 and May 2024. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire, the Self-Advocacy Scale for Female Cancer Patients, the Breast Cancer Survivor Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Family Avoidance of Cancer Communication Scale. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted using Mplus 8.3, with 18 items from the self-advocacy scale serving as observed indicators. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with profile membership. Results Three distinct self-advocacy profiles were identified: Low Advocacy-Self-Reliant Group (39.2%), Moderate Advocacy-Low Support Group (19.7%), and High Advocacy-Balanced Group (41.1%). Multivariate analysis revealed that education level, personality traits, type of medical insurance, family history of breast cancer, and self-efficacy significantly influenced profile membership (all P  < 0.05). Conclusion Developing tailored interventions based on patients’ self-advocacy profiles may enhance engagement in treatment decision-making and support improved clinical outcomes.