The effects of psychosocial strategies on anxiety and depression of patients diagnosed with prostate cancer: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Psychosocial strategies are commonly used to alleviate anxiety and depression in patients with prostate cancer. However, previous studies have shown inconsistent results.

Objectives: This study examined the effects of psychosocial strategies on anxiety and depression in prostate cancer patients.

Data sources and review methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using 4 English databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cinahl, and PsycInfo) and 2 Chinese databases (Wanfang data and Chinese Electronic Periodical Service) with predetermined keyword searches. We first evaluated 8144 titles and/or abstracts. Fourteen studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected. The criteria for study inclusion were as follows: (1) randomized controlled trial design; (2) control group received usual or standard care; (3) focus on testing psychosocial strategies to improve anxiety and depression symptoms; and (4) studies conducted with prostate cancer patients at any stage of the disease.

Results: The quality of the studies was assessed using the Jadad scoring system. Only 35.7% of studies were regarded as high quality. The majority of studies (85.7%) delivered informational and educational or cognitive-behavioral interventions. The results show that psychosocial strategies have a substantial effect on reducing anxiety 3 months after intervention (standard mean difference -1.13, p<0.0001) and have a short-term effect on depression symptoms (immediately after intervention: standard mean difference -0.43, p<0.001; 3 months after intervention: standard mean difference -0.78, p=0.04).

Conclusion: The results indicate that psychosocial strategies were more effective in reducing anxiety and depression compared with routine care, although the effect was not sustainable. However, high-quality methodologies, longer follow-up designs, and innovative psychosocial strategies are suggested for further study.

Keywords: Anxiety; Depression; Prostatic neoplasms; Psychology; Systematic review.