CN83 Interventions to alleviate depression and anxiety in women with ovarian cancer to improve mental health and health-related quality of life

Abstract

Patients with ovarian cancer, who also deal with depression and/or anxiety, are at a significantly greater risk of higher mortality rates, increased hospital stays, poorer mental health and, reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This structured review aims to critically appraise and synthesise up to date evidence on the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions to combat anxiety and depression, to improve mental health and HRQoL in women with ovarian cancer at any point in the cancer trajectory. We explored the effectiveness of diverse interventions to combat depression and/or anxiety in adult women with a confirmed ovarian cancer diagnosis, offered at any point in the cancer trajectory. According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement guidelines, peer reviewed publications of true and quasi-experimental studies were identified through a search of the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Excerpta Medica Online (Embase), and medical Literature Online (MEDLINE) databases from 2008 to 2021. The Critical Appraisal Framework for Original Research (CAFFOR) was used to to assess methodological rigour. Findings were synthesised using quantitative grouping and a narrative critical analysis. Seven studies were selected for the analysis of the findings and methodology of each paper and the discussion. The interventions were grouped into three different types: nurse-led, CBT-based, and exercise. Irrespective of type, the reviewed supportive care interventions seem to be beneficial in reducing patients' distress and enhancing HRQoL among ovarian cancer survivors. Focusing on people living with ovarian cancer, particularly at the early stages of development, may help improve the mortality rate of the patient group. To improve mental health and HRQoL in this group of patients, more rigorous development of existing interventions is necessary, as well as early screening for mental health deficits. Nurses play an essential role in improving mental health and HRQoL for women with ovarian cancer by leading and/or supporting delivery of complex supportive care interventions.