Psychiatric Morbidity among Patients Living with Cancer in a Nigerian Oncology Centre

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer is a leading cause of mortality worldwide and is associated with a wide range of psychiatric morbidities. The study aimed at determining the profile of psychiatric morbidity among cancer patients. Methods: In this descriptive study, 130 patients with different types of cancer were selected by systematic random selection and were interviewed. Information on sociodemographic characteristics, medical comorbidity, duration of the cancer, and duration of treatment was obtained. Psychological distress was assessed using the GHQ-12. The MINI was used to establish the presence or absence of any psychiatric diagnosis, Information on the receipt of formal psychiatric treatment was also obtained. Associated factors and predictors of “any mental disorder” (AMD) were determined. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS 20.0 Results: Prevalence of psychological distress was 63.8%, adjustment disorder 20.0%, anxiety disorder 29.2%, major depression 36.2%, delirium 6.9%, psychosis 2.3%, mania 0.8%, 12-month alcohol use disorder 3.8%, 12-month tobacco use disorder 0.8%, 12-month opioid use disorder 1.6%, 12-month cannabis use disorder 0.8%. In all, 66.9% had Any Mental Health Problems. The most common medical comorbidity was hypertension (36.2%) and diabetes (23.1%). Predictors of AMD were long duration of cancer OR = 6.27, 95% CI (1.22-12.1), duration of cancer treatment above 6 months OR = 5.04, 95% CI (1.97-12.92); and the presence of any medical comorbidity OR = 2.53, 95% CI (1.04-6.19). Conclusion: Cancer is associated with significant psychiatric morbidity, necessitating a collaborative Consultation-Liaison Psychiatric Service in cancer care.