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Comorbid mental disorders in laryngectomees
Susanne Singer1, Esther Herrmann, Cornelia Welzel
1Abteilung Sozialmedizin, Universität Leipzig, Germany. sins@medizin.uni-leipzig.de
Onkologie
|December 7, 2005
Summary
A significant number of laryngectomy patients suffer from mental disorders, yet very few receive adequate psychooncological care. This highlights a critical gap in post-treatment support for these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychiatry
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Laryngectomy patients face a high risk of mental health issues post-surgery.
- Psychooncological care is crucial for managing the psychological impact of cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of mental disorders in laryngectomized patients.
- To evaluate the current provision and utilization of psychooncological care in this population.
Main Methods:
- 189 laryngectomized patients were interviewed across six clinics in Central Germany.
- Structured clinical interviews (SCID) and standardized questionnaires (HADS, KFA) assessed mental health.
- Past and current psychotherapeutic care was evaluated.
Main Results:
- 23% of patients were diagnosed with mental disorders.
- Alcohol dependency (8%) and affective disorders (7% major depression, 5% minor depression) were most common.
- Only one patient was receiving ongoing psychiatric or psychotherapeutic treatment.
Conclusions:
- A substantial proportion of laryngectomy patients experience mental health disorders.
- There is a significant unmet need for psychooncological care among these patients.
- Current treatment rates for mental illness in this group are alarmingly low.