Cancer-Related Psychological Distress in Lymphoma Survivor: An Italian Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• Cancer survivorship is increasing, with lymphoma survivors facing significant psychological distress.
• Anxiety and depression are common consequences for lymphoma survivors, impacting their quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the prevalence of psychological distress in lymphoma survivors.
• To identify socio-demographic and clinical variables associated with anxiety and depression in this population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 212 lymphoma survivors.
• Data collected via socio-demographic forms and questionnaires assessing anxiety, depression, quality of life, and cancer impact.

Main Results:

• 17% of survivors experienced anxiety, 12.3% depression, and 8% both.
• Factors associated with distress included female sex, living as a couple, Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis, specific treatments, sleep disorders, lack of physical activity, and psychiatric drug use.

Conclusions:

• Specific variables can help identify lymphoma survivors at higher risk for psychological distress.
• Continuous monitoring of psychological distress throughout survivorship is crucial for early intervention and support.