Evaluation of guilt, shame and depression in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) relative to breast (BC) and prostate cancer (PC)

Abstract

7158 Background: Most NSCLC is related to smoking, and thus is potentially avoidable. Prior qualitative studies suggest that stigma from a self-induced illness results in feelings of guilt and shame in NSCLC patients (pts). This study is a prospective quantative study of guilt, shame and depression in NSCLC pts relative to BC and PC pts. Methods: Stage IV NSCLC, BC, and PC pts completed 3 surveys over 6 months (T1–3). The survey was a 20 minute questionnaire, including standardized tests of shame, guilt, and depression, as well as several investigator designed questions (IDQ) and demographic data. Goal enrollment is 94 NSCLC pts, 47 BC pts and 47 PC pts, with 80% power to detect a 0.75 point difference in the State Shame and Guilt Scale (SSGS, scores 1 to 5). Data for the first 159 pts with T1 and T2 data are presented. Means of the pooled results for the SSGS and IDQ were compared via analysis of variance; impact of cancer (CA) and gender were performed via regression analyses. Results: 92 NSCLC, 41 PC, and 26 BC patients have been enrolled. 55% of participants are male, mean age is 66 years (35–87), and 67% are married. There is a diverse range of incomes and education. IDQ were combined into a composite score, “self-blame” (reliable, internal consistency score 0.76). Results at T2 are presented in the table. Multiple regression analysis performed on women found that type of CA predicted depression, mediated by shame and guilt. Conclusions: NSCLC is associated with increased levels of guilt and shame leading to depression, relative to BC and PC. This disparity is particularly striking amongst women with NSCLC. Guilt, shame and depression may hamper a pt’s ability to advocate for themselves and may affect treatment outcomes. Further investigation is warranted as to whether a targeted intervention may improve levels of stigma amongst NSCLC pts. Funding provided by an American Medical Association Seed Grant. [Table: see text] No significant financial relationships to disclose.