Psychopathological analysis, suicidality and spirituality in elderly people with cancer

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between psychopathology, suicidality and spirituality and religiosity (R/S) of elderly people with cancer. Methods: To this end, a cross-sectional study was conducted at a High Complexity Care Center in Oncology (CACON, as per its Portuguese acronym) in the State of Pernambuco (Brazil). The sample consisted of 60 people over 60 years of age admitted to the oncology ward from September 2019 to January 2020. Sociodemographic and clinical data (oncology and mental health) were collected, where psychopathological aspects and R/S indexes were analyzed. For statistical analysis, the SPSS 13.0 software was used. Results: Controlled levels of psychopathology (4.75 ± 5.68) were found, in addition to high levels of spirituality (22.35 ± 6.06) and organizational (2.68 ± 1.54), non-organizational (2.20 ± 2.89) and intrinsic (4.87 ± 2.89) religiosity. There was a statistically significant association between psychopathology and suicidality (p = 0.023). Conclusion: The significant potential of R/S in the lives of elderly people with cancer was noted, and then it is suggested to include this perspective in multidisciplinary care practices. The association between psychopathology and suicidality reinforces the need for greater articulation between psychiatry and psychology in the care of people with chronic and threatening conditions such as cancer.