Depression among oncological patients

Introduction: Nowadays more and more people are diagnosed with cancer, which affects emotional states of the affected. Mental disorders affect from 30% to 50% of oncological patients. The most common are anxiety disorders and depression.

Aim of the study was to assess the influence of socio-demographic factors on the level of depression of oncological patients.

Material and methods: The research group consisted of 63 oncological patients. The diagnostic poll method, survey technique was used. The occurrence and intensity level of depression symptoms were measured according to the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) which was accompanied by the author’s questionnaire analyzing the socio-demographic and professional status of the surveyed.

Results and conclusions: The analysis conducted using the BDI questionnaire revealed the following results: more than half of the surveyed (54%, n = 34) suffered from moderate depression and roughly 1/10 (n = 7) of the surveyed suffered from severe depression. Only 1/3 (n = 22) of the surveyed showed no signs of depression and complained only about low mood. An increase in intensity of depression symptoms was determined by the following variables: place of residence, marital status and professional activity. Age, education level and financial situation had no influence on the intensity of depression among the respondents. Cancer influences every sphere of a patient’s life. Because of this, a holistic approach should be applied when treating such patients and that approach should be based on cooperation of specialists from various fields.