Evaluation of Psychological Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic Process on Cancer Patients
Authors/Creators
- 1. Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Oncology, Trabzon, Turkey
- 2. Prof. Dr. Süleyman Yalçın Göztepe Training and Research Hospital, Department of Neurology, Department of Neurology, Istanbul, Turkey
- 3. Recep Tayyip Erdogan University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Rize, Turkey
- 4. Recep Tayyip Erdogan University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Oncology Rize, Turkey
Description
Aim: Coronavirus-19 pandemic poses a threat both physically
and mentally for cancer patients (CPs). We aimed to evaluate
anxiety and depression levels of CPs during the pandemic
period.
Material and Method: In March 2022, CPs treated with
chemotherapy and a control group who without a diagnosis of
cancer and psychological disorders were evaluated. Volunteer
participants completed a questionnaire form included Patient
Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), General Anxiety Scale (GAD-7)
and Coronavirus Anxiety and Obsession Questionnaire (CAS,
OCS).
Results: 186 (61%) CPs and 119 (39%) control groups were
evaluated. 148 (48.5%) were men and 157 (51.5%) were women.
86.1% were married, 50.7% lived in the city center and 40.1%
had primary school education. CPs were older, predominantly
female, mostly living in the district, had lower education levels,
lower working rates and lower income levels. Depression
and anxiety scores were higher in CPs (p=0.041, p<0.001).
However, there was no difference between the groups in CAS
and OCS scores. GAD-7 was increased by cancers other than
breast, curative chemotherapy administration, low education
level and low daily television watching in CPs (p=0.049,
p=0.031, p=0.028 and p=0.04, respectively).
Conclusion: Coronavirus-19 pandemic triggers anxiety
and depression in CPs. The PHQ-9 and GAD-7 are simple
administered tests, help to evaluate depression and anxiety.