Effect of Psycho-Educational Intervention to Reduce Anxiety and Depression at Postintervention and Follow-Up in Women with Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the effectiveness of the psycho-educational intervention in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms for women with breast cancer in post- and follow-up status.

Data sources: A systematic search of 16 electronic databases to identify all randomized controlled trial studies that examine the effects of psycho-education on anxiety and depression among women with breast cancer. The standardized mean differences (SMDs) between groups in depression and anxiety levels for postintervention and follow-up were computed for each study.

Conclusion: Evidence suggests that psycho-educational intervention effectively relieves anxiety and depressive symptoms among women with breast cancer postintervention and follow-up.

Implications for practice: A significant effect of the psycho-education intervention was found to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms in women with breast cancer. Such service was recommended in nursing practice.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Depression. Anxiety. Psycho-education. Systematic review and meta-analysis.