Introduction: The aim of the present study is to carry out a multidimensional analysis of the relationship of social
support with quality of life and the stress perceived by cancer patients. Methods: The participants were 200 patients
with cancer. Data was gathered on sociodemographic characteristics, health, quality of life, social support and perceived
stress. Results: Frequency of and satisfaction with different sources and types of support are related positively with
improvement of quality of life and negatively with perceived stress. The emotional support from the partner and the
emotional and informational support from the family are significant predictors of quality of life. Emotional support from the
family reduces patients’ perceived stress. Satisfaction with emotional support from the partner and with the informational
support from friends and family increases quality of life. Satisfaction with emotional support from the family and with
informational support from friends decreases patients’ perceived stress. Instrumental support and support provided by
health professionals are not good predictors of quality of life and perceived stress. Satisfaction with the support received
is more significantly related with quality of life and stress than the frequency with which the sources provide support.
Conclusions: These results have important practical implications to improve cancer patients’ quality of life and reduce
their perceived stress through social support. Designing intervention strategies to improve satisfaction with the support
provided to patients by their closest networks results in a global benefit for the patient’s quality of life.
