Incidence and predictive factors of depression in patients with metastatic breast cancer: A prospective study

Abstract

8165 Background: Although some reports suggest that the incidence of depression in patients with metastatic breast cancer is high, only a few studies specifically focus on the predictive factors for depression. The identification of predictive factors for depression in cancer patients could help to screen it. In the present study, we have evaluated the incidence and predictive factors for depression in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Methods: A Beck depression inventory short form was given to 178 patients with metastatic breast cancer followed at the Institut Gustave Roussy between december 2003 and april 2004. We looked at the correlation between age, mastectomy, ongoing chemotherapy, site of metastases, marital status, belief in god and the beck score. Patients who presented a Beck score above 4 were considered as depressed. Results: 132 patients replied to the questionnaire (74%). Of these patients, 65% received chemotherapy at the time of evaluation and 31% presented a liver metastasis. A Beck score >4 was observed in 33 patients (25% of questionnaires). Age, locoregional treatment, ongoing chemotherapy and site of metastases did not predict the Beck score. The only predictive factors for depression were the marital status (p=0.04) and the lack of god belief (p=0.04). Although a psycho-oncology service was available in the hospital, only 5 patients (15%) who presented a beck score >4 were followed by a specialist in psycho-oncology. Conclusion: This study confirms that depression is a frequent and underdiagnosed situation in patients with metastatic breast cancer, and suggests that social and cultural factors are more important that clinical characteristics to predict depression. No significant financial relationships to disclose.