Anxio-depressive symptoms in Moroccan women with gynecological cancer: Relief factors

Abstract

Psychosocial determinants can affect the mental health of women who have been diagnosed with gynecological cancer. The aim of this study was to examine how social support and self-esteem are associated with anxiety and depression symptoms in women with gynecological cancer, and who are treated by radical surgery. A cross-sectional study was performed, within the oncology department of Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Casablanca, on 100 Moroccan women. They all had undergone radical surgery for gynecological cancer, hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy. Our results showed that patients with gynecological cancer treated by radical surgery exhibited high prevalence rates of anxiety (66%) and depression symptoms (59%). Associations showed that age, having children, medical coverage system, area of residence, working status and socioeconomic status were significantly related to the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms (P<0.05). The general social support, family support and significant other support besides high self-esteem reduce significantly the risk of getting anxiety and depression symptoms (P-values<0.05). Among patients with gynecological cancer treated by radical surgery, high prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms was found. Social support and high self-esteem could help improve mental health issues related to this type of cancer.