Depression and anxiety in patients with hematological malignancies, prevalence, and associated factors

Khadega A Abuelgasim1, Gasmelseed Y Ahmed, Jamilah A Alqahtani

  • 1Department of Oncology, King Abdulaziz Medical City National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. E-mail. ahmedkh1@ngha.med.sa.

Saudi Medical Journal
|July 29, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Depression and anxiety affect nearly half of hematological cancer patients. Early screening and intervention are crucial for improving both psychological well-being and disease outcomes in these individuals.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Psychiatry
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Hematological cancers (HC) represent a significant patient population with potential psychological distress.
  • Understanding the prevalence of mental health conditions in HC patients is vital for comprehensive care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety among patients with hematological cancers.
  • To identify factors associated with depression and anxiety in this patient group.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 211 hematological cancer patients at King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC) between March 2014 and June 2015.
  • Validated questionnaires, including the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, were used in face-to-face interviews.
  • Patients with pre-existing depression or generalized anxiety disorder were excluded from the study.

Main Results:

  • Depression was identified in 46.5% of participants, and anxiety was detected in 22.3%.
  • 18.1% of patients experienced both concurrent anxiety and depression.
  • Multiple co-morbidities and a tense home atmosphere were significant predictors of anxiety and depression; however, gender, smoking, income, and active therapy status showed no association.

Conclusions:

  • Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent in hematological cancer patients at KAMC.
  • Healthcare providers should implement routine screening for depression and anxiety in HC patients.
  • Early intervention for these conditions may improve patient outcomes and enhance psychological well-being.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Depression: Overview01:18

Depression: Overview

Depression is a prevalent mental illness marked by persistent sadness and lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities. It can take several forms, including major depression, persistent depressive disorder, and bipolar I and II disorders. Symptoms range from emotional changes like chronic worry to physical changes like sleep disturbances and suicidal thoughts. From a neurobiological perspective, depression is believed to be triggered by abnormalities in the brain's prefrontal cortex,...
1.1K
Anxiety: Overview01:18

Anxiety: Overview

Anxiety is a common mental disorder featuring excessive worry, fear, and apprehension, significantly affecting daily life. People with anxiety disorders experience persistent and intense anxiety, interrupting their everyday functioning.
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
1.3K
Stress and Mental Health01:30

Stress and Mental Health

Chronic stress profoundly affects mental health, significantly influencing mood, behavior, and overall quality of life. Research closely links chronic stress with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Ongoing exposure to stress can lead to physiological and psychological changes, initiating a cycle of emotional distress and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
1.1K
Psychoneuroimmunology: Diabetes and Cancer01:19

Psychoneuroimmunology: Diabetes and Cancer

Chronic stress has been linked to both the onset and progression of serious health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes and cancer. Type 2 diabetes, a widespread chronic illness, is closely associated with obesity and insulin resistance, both of which often worsen under stress. Studies indicate that men experiencing high levels of chronic stress face a 45% higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those with minimal stress. Stress triggers physiological responses that elevate blood...
598
Depressive Disorders: MDD and Dysthymia01:27

Depressive Disorders: MDD and Dysthymia

Depressive disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by pervasive feelings of sadness, diminished pleasure in life, and a significant impact on daily functioning. These conditions are most prevalent in individuals during their 30s and affect women at twice the rate of men. Contrary to popular belief, younger individuals are generally more susceptible to these disorders than older adults. Two key types of depressive disorders include Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and...
1.0K
Depressive Disorders: Etiology01:27

Depressive Disorders: Etiology

Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
832