Fear of Cancer Recurrence among Cancer Survivors in South Korea: High Prevalence and Predictors of Clinical FCR

Purpose This study examined the prevalence of fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) and its related factors among cancer survivors in South Korea. Methods Between August 2021 and November 2022, 345 cancer survivors were recruited from the National Cancer Center, regional cancer centers, university hospitals, and local communities in South Korea. Participants completed self-report questionnaires, including the Korean version of Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory-Short Form (K-FCRI-SF) via mobile platforms, and underwent structured diagnostic interviews using the Korean version of the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview-Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify key predictors of clinical FCR (K-FCRI-SF of ≥ 22). Results Of the participants, 60.87% experienced high FCR, while 31.01% experienced clinical FCR. Younger survivors (≤ 40 years) were significantly more likely to report clinical FCR. Illness anxiety disorder and somatic symptom disorder were strong predictors of clinical FCR. Psychological and cancer-related variables, including intrusive thought, thought suppression, catastrophizing, symptom focusing, anxious preoccupation, illness uncertainty, and inconsistency in illness information, were also significantly associated with clinical FCR. Conclusions The high prevalence of clinical FCR among South Korean cancer survivors highlights the need for integrated interventions. Screening for health anxiety and maladaptive cognitive responses is essential for improved clarity and consistency in medical communication. Multidisciplinary approaches that combine cognitive-behavioral strategies with accurate medical guidance may enhance survivorship care and reduce FCR in this population.