Factors associated with anxiety and depression in cancer patients: Demographic factors and the role of demoralization and satisfaction with care

Abstract

Objective: Anxiety and depression are common in cancer patients and seem to affect quality of life, treatment compliance and even survival. Defining factors related to anxiety and depression and exploring the role of demoralization and satisfaction with care, could contribute to the improvement of patients' quality of life and quality of health services as well.

Methods: A convenience sample of 150 cancer inpatients and outpatients from two oncology centers, with various types of solid tumors, participated in a prospective cross-sectional observational study. The psychometric tools used were the Greek versions of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, FAMCARE-Patient Scale and Oncology Palliative Care (FAMCARESCALE) and Demoralization Scale (DEMORALIZATION SCALE II, DS-II).

Results: Patients mean age was 62 years (20-85 years) and 89 patients (59.3%) were women. Among patients, 33% had breast, 24% gastrointestinal and 15% lung cancer. Eighty-two patients (54.7%) had metastatic disease. Women showed higher rates of anxiety (p = 0.054). Anxiety was inversely related to age (p = 0.043) and positively correlated with time since diagnosis (p = 0.076). Unmarried patients presented with higher rates of depression (p = 0.026). Multiple linear regression showed a statistically significant impact of Demoralization factor 'Meaning and Purpose' on anxiety (p < 0.001, R² = 36.3%) and depression (p < 0.001, R² = 49%). Moreover, higher educational level (p = 0.038, R² = 3.1%) is related to higher levels of anxiety and higher scores of FAMCARESCALE factor-Information/interaction with the health care professionals, is related to lower levels of depression (p = 0.008, R² = 2.7%).

Conclusions: The results highlight the significant impact of demoralization on anxiety and depression in cancer patients. Early recognition of demoralization and early referral to mental health professionals will hopefully alleviate the mental burden of cancer patients.

Keywords: anxiety; cancer; demoralization; depression; oncology; psycho-oncology; satisfaction with care.