An Empirical Analysis on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among Recently Diagnosed Cancer Patients: A Study in Visakhapatnam

Abstract

Nowadays cancer is the most threatening illness to human wellbeing. Cancer is a complex illness which is highly stressful and can be traumatic. Emotional responses to this experience can range from acute fear, sadness, and anger to enduring adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and depression. The main objective of this paper is to evaluate the prevalence, predictors, and correlates of cancer-related PTSD symptoms and diagnoses. The research approach of the study is an integrated research approach. The study adopted a descriptive research design and applied a convenience sampling method. The study selected 50 respondents who diagnosed cancer recently and collected the data through a pre-tested, unstructured interview schedule. The study found that majority of the respondents (n=16) are affected by breast cancer, chemotherapy and radiotherapy (n=19) are the most common and preferred methods of treatment and the respondents had relative knowledge about PTSD. Highest scoring items were "I am having strong physical reactions when something reminds me of the stressful experience" (M=3.92, SD=0.24) and "Feeling distant from people" (M=3.92, SD=0.24). The lowest scoring item was "I suddenly feel or act as if the stressful experience was happening again" (M=3.42, SD=0.22). The study found that after being diagnosed with skin cancer, most participants had changed their ways, especially around unprotected sun exposure. The study suggested that the new interventions should be designed prevent cancer and provide the care, support and treatment to cancer patients. Keywords: Post-traumatic stress disorder, Cancer, physical health