Depression In Cancer Patients Research Articles

Comparative effectiveness of mental health interventions on anxiety, depression and quality of life among cancer patients: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

e23047 Background: Cancer patients frequently experience mental health (MH) concerns, which have a detrimental impact on their overall well-being. Numerous therapeutic approaches have been examined, although their comparative effectiveness (CE) are unknown among cancer patients. In order to address this void, we conducted CE research on the impact of various MH therapies and its impact on anxiety, depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and Quality of life (QoL). Methods: We conducted an extensive literature search in PubMed and EMBASE for randomized controlled trials published between 2000 and 2023. The inclusion criteria of this study focused on cancer patients who were 18 years or older and were taking therapies for depression, anxiety and PTSD. The exclusion criteria encompassed studies using pilots, protocols, and cancer survivors. Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool was used for risk assessment. CE research of systematic review and network meta-analysis were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of each intervention. Results: Our search yielded 39 studies out of a total of 7,132. The results of network meta-analysis on CE research showed that Exercise (Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking (SUCRA) ranking: 0.99), Mirtazapine (SUCRA) ranking: 0.82) and Psychosocial support (SUCRA ranking: 0.82) were more effective than other interventions in improving anxiety. Pairwise comparison showed a reduction in anxiety, random effects model (mean difference (MD)-2.35;95%CI: -3.82-0.87), heterogeneity: I 2 > 50%, t2 = 13.11, p < 0.01, test for subgroup differences (random effects): ChiSq2 = 26.96, d.f. = 8 (p < 0.01), and for depression (MD:-1.59;95%CI: -2.41-0.76), heterogeneity: I 2 = > 50%, t2 = 4.46, p < 0.01, test for subgroup differences (random effects): ChiSq2 = 34.38, d.f. = 5 (p < 0.01). And further examining odds of > = 50% reduction in depression score from baseline was OR:2.62;95%CI: 1.52-4.51, Heterogeneity: I 2 > 50%, t2 = 0.30, p < 0.01. And additionally examining the QoL score, the interventions improved the outcomes, MD, 8.59; 95%CI: 3.72-13.46. However, there were no difference in the PTSD outcomes (MD, -1.34; 95%CI: -4.53-1.84). Furthermore, subgroup analyses have shown the efficacy of combination therapies in diminishing anxiety and depression scores. Conclusions: Exercise , Mirtazapine and Psychosocial support demonstrated efficacy in alleviating anxiety and depression in cancer patients. Although Exercise appears to be the most effective short-term treatment for moderate-to-severe MH disorder in cancer patients, even though there is a lack of high-quality evidence on the topic. On the basis of individual circumstances, patients, caregivers, and physicians should weigh the risks and benefits of all active interventions in cancer patients with mental health, taking into account the fact that these interventions' effects could differ from patient to patient.

The Interplay of Chronic Stress and Cancer: Pathophysiology and Implications for Integrated Care.

Cancer-associated depression is a multifaceted condition that arises from the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in individuals diagnosed with cancer. Understanding this condition involves exploring how cancer and its treatments can precipitate depressive symptoms and the mechanisms behind this association. Chronic stress, inflammation, and immunological responses play a crucial role in the development of both cancer and depression. The objective of this review is to describe and synthesize information on the complex interactions between chronic stress, inflammation, immunological responses, and cancer development. Additionally, it aims to review existing evidence regarding mechanisms such as neurotransmitter imbalances, structural brain changes, and genetic predispositions as key contributors to depression in cancer patients. A comprehensive literature search on Cancer-associated Depression was conducted in electronic databases, including APA PsycINFO, Medline, Google Scholar, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The research focused on understanding the potential relationship between stress-induced depression and cancer by examining neurochemical, anatomical, immunological, genetic, and psychological changes. The findings revealed a compilation of both quantitative and qualitative studies on depression in cancer patients. Evidence suggested a potential link between cancer-induced stress and depression, with increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines (such as IL-6) and dysregulation of neurotransmitters, including serotonin, contributing to the onset of depression. Furthermore, studies indicated that antidepressants, along with psychological interventions, were effective in managing depression among cancer patients. This narrative review provides insights into the importance of integrating oncology and mental health services to address the psychosocial needs of cancer patients. Future research should focus on the bidirectional interactions between stress and cancer, aiming to improve cancer care by incorporating mental health support. Addressing the mental health aspects of cancer treatment can significantly enhance patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

Efficacy of Music Therapy on Quality of Life in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of music therapy on quality of life (QoL), anxiety, and depression in cancer patients. Nine electronic databases, encompassing six English and three Chinese databases were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from the date of database inception to September 1, 2024. All RCTs that involved participants aged at least 18years with any type of cancer, who received music therapy and had QoL as an outcome measure, were screened. The revised Cochrane's risk of bias tool was applied to evaluate the risk of bias. The Review Manager software was applied to execute this meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the type and duration of the music therapy. Fourteen RCTs involving 1104 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that compared with usual care, wait list or health education, music therapy could significantly improve the QoL of cancer patients (standardized mean difference (SMD=1.36); 95% confidence interval (CI: 0.77-1.96); p<0.01; Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation assessment [GRADE]: moderate), with passive music therapy being superior to active-passive music therapy, can be protective against anxiety (SMD=-1.37; 95% CI:-2.29 to -0.45; p<0.01; GRADE: moderate) and depression (SMD=-1.86; 95% CI:-3.65 to -0.08; p=0.04; GRADE: low). Music therapy was effective in improving the QoL of patients with cancer, with passive music therapy being superior to active-passive music therapy. Meanwhile, anxiety and depression were relieved as well. Further studies with rigorous study designs are needed to verify our conclusions.

Evaluating pregabalin in cancer patients with chronic neuropathic pain and depression: an observational case series

BACKGROUND Chronic neuropathic pain and depression are common and debilitating conditions in cancer patients, significantly impacting their quality of life. Pregabalin, an anticonvulsant medication, is used for neuropathic pain and may also influence depressive symptoms. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of pregabalin on pain intensity, depression severity, and side effects in cancer patients with chronic neuropathic pain and depression. AIM To evaluate the impact of pregabalin on pain intensity, depression severity, and the safety profile in cancer patients with chronic neuropathic pain and depression. METHODS This observational case series included 10 cancer patients experiencing chronic neuropathic pain and depression. Pregabalin was administered at a starting dose of 150 mg twice daily, with adjustments based on patient tolerance and pain response up to 300 mg twice daily. Pain intensity and depression severity were assessed using the brief pain inventory (BPI) and the Hamilton depression rating scale (HDRS) at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Side effects were monitored using a self-reported side effect questionnaire. RESULTS Pregabalin led to a significant reduction in pain intensity and depression severity. The mean BPI score decreased from 7.8 (SD = 1.2) at baseline to 5.2 (SD = 1.4) at 4 weeks and 4.1 (SD = 1.5) at 8 weeks, representing reductions of 33.3% and 47.4%, respectively. The mean HDRS score decreased from 18.5 (SD = 4.0) at baseline to 13.2 (SD = 4.1) at 4 weeks and 9.8 (SD = 3.6) at 8 weeks, showing reductions of 28.4% and 47.0%, respectively. Side effects included dizziness (50%), drowsiness (40%), weight gain (30%), and dry mouth (20%). No severe adverse effects were reported. All patients completed the study, with 30% requiring dose adjustments. CONCLUSION Pregabalin significantly alleviates both chronic neuropathic pain and depression in cancer patients with a manageable safety profile. These findings support the use of pregabalin in this patient population, though further research with larger samples and controlled designs is warranted.

Совладающее поведение онкологических пациентов с разным уровнем неопределенности в болезни

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background.&lt;/strong&gt; The achievements of modern medicine can prolong the life of cancer patients. At the same time, the accumulation of a large amount of new unclear or inconsistency information about disease makes it difficult for patients to assess their condition and predict the development of events, which leads to increased uncertainty in illness. Insufficient attention is paid to coping behavior patients conditions of illness with different levels of uncertainty in illness, and the assessment of their effectiveness. &lt;strong&gt;Objective.&lt;/strong&gt; The research is studying coping behavior and levels of anxiety and depression of cancer patients with different levels of uncertainty in illness and treatment duration. &lt;strong&gt;Methods.&lt;/strong&gt; The research included 213 cancer patients aged from 18 to 77 years receiving anticancer drug therapy. There are 115 people with a high level of uncertainty in illness and a shorter period of treatment (&amp;ldquo;HU&amp;rdquo;) and 98 people with a moderate level of uncertainty in illness and a longer treatment duration (&amp;ldquo;MU&amp;rdquo;). In research we used socio-demographic and clinical questionnaires, Mishel&amp;rsquo;s uncertainty in illness scale (MIUS-A), the COPE inventory, the world assumptions scale, Treatment-related self-efficacy scale, multidimensional scale of perception of social support (MSPSS), Beck depression inventory, Back anxiety inventory. &lt;strong&gt;Results.&lt;/strong&gt; Patients of &amp;ldquo;HU&amp;rdquo; and &amp;ldquo;MU&amp;rdquo; groups have different in coping strategies repertoire. &amp;ldquo;HU&amp;rdquo; group in compared &amp;ldquo;MU&amp;rdquo;-group more often use avoidance coping strategies and that are aimed at regulating emotion. &amp;ldquo;MU&amp;rdquo; group more often than &amp;ldquo;HU&amp;rdquo; use active coping strategies and strategies that change attitudes to distress. &amp;ldquo;MU&amp;rdquo; and &amp;ldquo;HU&amp;rdquo; groups have similar basic assumptions about the benevolence of the world and themselves. However, &amp;ldquo;HU&amp;rdquo; group in comparison with &amp;ldquo;MU&amp;rdquo; &amp;mdash; believe they are unlucky and consider that positive and negative life events are not distributed justly. Moreover, they are less confident in their ability to overcome the events related to illness. Both groups of cancer patients feel the greatest social support from their families, and their significant ones. The levels of anxiety and depression were higher in the &amp;ldquo;HU&amp;rdquo; group than &amp;ldquo;MU&amp;rdquo;.&lt;/p&gt;

Differential associations of serum globulin and albumin-globulin ratio with depression in cancer and non-cancer populations: a cross-sectional study.

The association of globulin and albumin-globulin ratio (AGR) with depression in cancer and non-cancer populations remains understudied. Therefore, this study aims to investigate this association and potential differences, with a focus on cancer-specific pathophysiology. This study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 2005 to 2016. The participants were divided into three tertiles of globulin and AGR to explore more detailed associations. Logistic regression, restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves, and subgroup analyses were conducted to assess the associations. Finally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were applied to evaluate the predictive performance of globulin and AGR for depression. After adjusting for covariates, higher globulin levels were significantly associated with an increased incidence of depression in cancer patients (OR=2.53, 95% CI: 1.69-3.80), while a higher AGR was associated with a reduced incidence (OR=0.28, 95% CI: 0.14-0.58). In the non-cancer group, a similar but weaker association was observed: higher globulin levels (OR=1.16, 95% CI: 1.00-1.35) and lower AGR (OR=0.80, 95% CI: 0.62-1.05) were associated with depression. Subgroup analyses suggested that the associations were more stable in cancer populations, while in non-cancer populations, these associations might be influenced by drinking. AUC values indicated that the biomarkers demonstrated good predictive performance. This study identifies globulin and AGR as novel, cost-effective biomarkers that integrate inflammation and nutrition, providing a convenient and robust means to predict depression, particularly in cancer patients. These findings also offer new perspectives for future dual clinical interventions targeting inflammation and nutrition, as well as experimental research on depression.

Prevalence and determinants of depression and its association with social support among cancer patients: implications for enhancing oncology care

BackgroundEarly detection of depression in cancer patients is essential for improving health outcomes. This study assessed the prevalence and determinants of depression among cancer patients and examined its association with social support.MethodA cross-sectional study was conducted at Al Amal Cancer Center, Al-Thawra Hospital, Hodeida City, Yemen (January–March 2023). Data on sociodemographic characteristics, depression (Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-9), and social support (Oslo Social Support Scale, OSSS-3) were collected. Multivariate binary logistic regression identified significant depression factors, and Pearson’s correlation was used to assess the relationship between social support and depression. A p value of < 0.05 indicated statistical significance.ResultsDepression incidence among cancer patients was 55% (n = 192). Multivariate analysis revealed that married (AOR = 9.472, p < 0.001) and divorced/widowed patients (AOR = 11.649, p < 0.001) were more likely to have depression than single individuals were. Higher education (diploma or above) was protective (AOR = 0.071, p < 0.001). Elevated lipid levels were linked to a lower depression risk (AOR = 0.189, p = 0.003), and a family history of cancer (AOR = 4.239, p < 0.001), longer disease duration (> 4 years) (AOR = 3.197, p = 0.006), and difficulty in activities (AOR = 8.704, p < 0.001) increased depression risk. A significant negative correlation between depression and social support was found (r = − 0.237, p < 0.001).ConclusionOver half of cancer patients experience depression, which is influenced by marital status, education, and disease-related factors. Social support significantly mitigates depression.Implications for practiceEnhancing social support and integrating mental health assessments by psychiatric professionals in oncology care is essential for improving the emotional well-being and overall quality of life of cancer patients.

Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Managing the Symptoms of Depression in Women with Breast Cancer: A Literature Review of Clinical Trials.

Symptoms of depression represent a significant burden to patients with breast cancer, not only because of the psychological stress associated with their diagnosis, but also because of the adverse effects of its treatment. We reviewed the clinical trials examining the management of the symptoms of depression in breast cancer patients through different non-pharmacological interventions in different databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and the American Psychological Association). Cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy or psychodynamic psychotherapy, as well as acceptance and commitment therapy have been effective in improving symptoms of depression in cancer patients with moderate to severe symptoms. Physical exercise, yoga, mindfulness, and support groups have been shown to benefit patients with mild depressive symptoms. These interventions not only showed positive results in interventions in women with breast cancer in terms of the symptoms of depression, but also highlighted their benefits for comorbid anxiety, stress, and poor sleep quality; moreover, it is suggested that these interventions should be leveraged to manage mental health issues in breast cancer patients. The molecular effects of these interventions, such as the reduction in inflammatory cytokines and cortisol levels, have seldom been reported and need further studies.

Impact of breathing exercises on anxiety and depression in cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Anxiety and depression are prevalent emotional disorders with significant socio-economic impacts. They are particularly common in cancer patients, affecting up to 20% and 10% of patients, respectively, compared to 3.15% and 4.8% in the general population. While medication is a common treatment, it can have side effects and may not address the psychosocial aspects of these conditions. Breathing exercises have emerged as a potential non-pharmacological approach to controlling anxiety and depression. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy of breathing exercises, to determine if these exercises help reduce anxiety and depression, and to measure the impact compared to a control group. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature search across several databases from 1 January 2000 to 1 July 2024, following the PRISMA guidelines. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment were undertaken independently by two researchers and adjudicated by another. Outcomes included anxiety and depression scores. In meta-analyses, the I2 statistic was used to explore heterogeneity. Random effects models were used in the presence of moderate heterogeneity. Sources of heterogeneity were investigated by subgroup analyses and meta-regression. Results: The search yielded 14 eligible studies involving 1067 participants with a mean age of 46.35 years and a female/male ratio of 1.19. Meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction in anxiety (−0.49; 95% CI, −0.68 to −0.30; p &lt; 0.001) and depression (−0.38; 95% CI, −0.53 to −0.23; p &lt; 0.001) following breathing exercises compared to control interventions. Subgroup analysis indicated that yoga breathing exercises had a more pronounced effect on anxiety reduction. Conclusion: Breathing exercises may help reduce anxiety and depression in individuals managing cancer. Further exploration is needed in the future to alleviate anxiety and depression through breathing exercises as the first step in promoting this potentially valuable adjunct therapy.

Adverse Effects and Safety of Antidepressants and Psychedelics for Depression in Cancer: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Depression is common among patients suffering from cancer, but is often challenging to diagnose due to the overlap of symptoms with cancer and its treatments. Additionally, treating depression in cancer patients is challenging because of the confusion between the adverse effects of antidepressants, cancer treatments, and cancer symptoms. This study aims to evaluate the safety and adverse effects of pharmacological interventions, focusing on antidepressants and psychedelics, in the treatment of depression in cancer patients. The review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, and includes studies published up to July 2024. We searched PubMed, Scielo, and Lilacs databases, and included randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical trials involving cancer patients with depressive symptoms. A total of 1764 articles were identified, with 21 randomized controlled trials meeting the inclusion criteria. All studies involved cancer patients with depressive symptoms, and only one study included patients with other life-threatening conditions. Serious adverse events related to antidepressant treatment were reported in only two studies, indicating an acceptable safety profile. Most other adverse effects were mild to moderate, and generally well-tolerated. Serious adverse events were infrequent; however, the small sample sizes underscore the necessity of larger, placebo-controlled trials assessing the safety of antidepressants and psychedelics in cancer patients.

The impact of experiential avoidance on anxiety and depressive disorders in hematological cancer patients

Anxiety disorders and/or depressive disorders co-occurring with hematological cancer are an additional burden for patients. Experiential avoidance (EA; efforts to avoid negative emotions, thoughts, or memories) is an empirically evident transdiagnostic factor for the onset and maintenance of anxiety and depressive disorders in non-cancer populations. There is lack of evidence on the impact of EA in predicting anxiety and depression in cancer patients. A total of 291 patients with hematological cancer (60% male, mean age 55 years) were included in this cross-sectional observational study. Participants were assessed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 mental disorders (SCID-5). EA was assessed via self-report using the Brief Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire (BEAQ). Hierarchical binomial logistic regression was conducted in order to estimate the impact of EA on anxiety and depressive disorders. A total of 38 patients (13.3%) met the diagnostic criteria for a current anxiety disorder, while 49 patients (17.2%) met the criteria for a current depressive disorder. In bivariate analyses, EA was significantly elevated in patients with an anxiety disorder in comparison to those without (54.4 vs. 48.9; p = 0.01). The same was true for depressive disorder (54.9 vs. 48.6; p < 0.01). After controlling for relevant sociodemographic and medical factors, EA did not predict anxiety or depressive disorder in separate regression models. The presence of an anxiety disorder was significantly predicted by female sex, younger age and elevated comorbidity burden. In contrast, the presence of a depressive disorder was predicted by comorbidity burden. Sociodemographic and medical predictors have greater predictive potential than EA regarding current anxiety and depressive disorder in hematological cancer patients.

Oncology Patients and Bibliotherapy

The integration of bibliotherapy in oncology offers a unique approach to addressing the emotional and psychological challenges faced by cancer patients. Bibliotherapy, the therapeutic use of literature, has been historically recognized for its healing properties, tracing back to ancient civilizations where libraries were revered as healing spaces. In modern times, it encompasses activities like reading, storytelling, and creative writing, applied in diverse contexts including clinical settings. The premise of bibliotherapy lies in its ability to offer psychological insights, foster empathy, and provide comfort through characters' experiences in literature. It aligns with cognitive-behavioral and psychoanalytic theories, suggesting its potential to modify negative thought patterns and facilitate emotional catharsis and self-reflection. Cancer treatment not only involves physical but also psychological aspects. Patients often face anxiety, depression, and isolation. Bibliotherapy can complement medical treatment by offering emotional support and psychological respite. The process of bibliotherapy, involves identification with characters, emotional release, and gaining insights, leading to practical applications in real-life situations. It has evolved to be used by mental health professionals, employing both fiction and non-fiction, and addressing a range of issues from behavioral problems to chronic illness. Recent research highlights bibliotherapy's effectiveness in reducing anxiety and depression in cancer patients. However, challenges in its evaluation exist due to its subjective nature and varied methodologies. Despite these challenges, its effectiveness, particularly in fiction, is acknowledged. In conclusion, bibliotherapy presents a promising but still developing field, requiring further research, especially in fiction's use. It holds significant potential in improving the emotional wellbeing of oncology patients when applied by skilled and supervised practitioners.

Psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the hospital anxiety and depression scale in cancer patients.

Although the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) has been widely studied across various populations, there is still no consensus on its factor structure. This study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the HADS in cancer patients. Our study was cross-sectional and non-probabilistic. It involved 467 cancer patients aged 18 years and over, who were treated at a public institution specialized in oncology. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Beck Depression Inventory were used. We evaluated their internal structure, measurement invariance, relationship with other variables, and reliability. It was found that the HADS is best suited to a bifactorial structure where there is one general factor (emotional distress) and two specific factors (anxiety and depression). The HADS demonstrates invariance with respect to sex and years of education. It shows a moderate correlation with the Beck Anxiety Inventory and the Beck Depression Inventory. In addition, it presents acceptable levels of reliability and relationship with instruments used in the diagnosis of anxiety and depression. The HADS is best suited to a bifactorial structure in cancer populations, with comparisons across both sexes and varying levels of education. Its brevity, versatility, hospital-focused design, and extensive validation make the HADS a very important instrument in the detection of anxiety and depression in cancer patients.

The Interconnection of Psychedelic Spirituality, Social Justice, and BIPOC Therapist Engagement in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: Insights from the Psychedelic Therapists Diversity Study

This paper presents insights from the Psychedelic Therapists Diversity (PTD) study, a qualitative study conducted to understand how BIPOC therapists perceive psychedelic therapy and research. The inciting incident for this research occurred during our collaboration on a clinical trial of psilocybin-assisted therapy for depression in cancer patients.1 Candace Oglesby was the only therapist of color, and the participant population included only a small number of patients of color. Recognizing she was not the only therapist who experienced challenges and barriers to entering the psychedelic therapy space, she realized that studying this experience would fill a significant research gap and could potentially support BIPOC clinicians.

The Effectiveness of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) in Improving the Mental Health of Breast Cancer Patients: Systematic Literature Review

Introduction : Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in Indonesia and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with a prevalence of 28.7%. Emotional impacts, such as anxiety, depression, and stress, often accompany this diagnosis, making effective interventions necessary to improve the mental health of patients. Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and Spiritual Emotional Freedom Technique (SEFT) are modern energy therapies aimed at addressing these challenges through tapping methods and the integration of spiritual aspects. Methode: This study employs a systematic literature review (SLR) approach by reviewing articles from the PubMed, and Google Scholar databases published within the 2019-2024 timeframe. The included studies encompass experimental research and interventions related to EFT or SEFT in breast cancer patients with a focus on mental health. Results : EFT and SEFT are effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression in cancer patients. EFT improves the positive behavior of pancreatic cancer patients, which is relevant to breast cancer patients. SEFT, with its spiritual component, provides additional benefits, especially for elderly patients, in harmonizing physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects. Compared to other therapies such as Life Review Therapy, EFT and SEFT offer a unique approach that is more oriented towards the management of body energy. Conclusion of this study affirms that EFT and SEFT are innovative holistic methods for improving the mental health of breast cancer patients. The integration of spiritual elements in SEFT provides significant added value, making it relevant for the Indonesian context.

Risk factors in depression in oncology patients. Dr. Julio Villacreses Colmont Hospital

The general objective of this study was to analyze the risk factors for depression in patients with an oncological diagnosis treated at the Dr. Julio Villacreses Colmont Hospital in Portoviejo. A descriptive and cross-sectional design was used, applying a sociodemographic file and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD) to a sample of 242 patients. The results revealed that 33% of the patients had severe depression, while 42% showed moderate depression. In terms of anxiety levels, 30% of participants experienced severe anxiety and 41% moderate anxiety. The most prevalent types of cancer were prostate and lung, with most diagnoses in advanced stages (III and IV). A high rate of comorbidities was identified, present in 52% of patients, which complicated treatment and affected prognosis. In conclusion, the high levels of anxiety and depression in cancer patients highlight the importance of integrating psychological support into their care, promoting a comprehensive approach that improves both quality of life and clinical outcomes.

Association between depression and liver function biomarkers among US cancer survivors in NHANES 2005–2020

Depression frequently comorbidities with cancer, adversely affecting survivors’ quality of life. Liver dysfunction is also prevalent among cancer survivors. However, the association between these two conditions remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the relationship between depression and liver function biomarkers in US cancer survivors. A cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2020. Cancer survivors were screened and depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and 18 liver function biomarkers were included. Survey-weighted generalized linear models with multiple covariables adjusted were employed to examine the associations between depression and liver function biomarkers. A total of 4118 cancer survivors were included, representing a weighted population of 21 501 237. After adjusted with age, gender, race, marital status, education level, family income-to-poverty ratio, and number of cancer types, 8 biomarkers demonstrated positive correlations with depression in cancer survivors, included alanine aminotransferase (ALT, OR = 1.007, 95% CI: 1.000 to 1.013), alkaline phosphatase (ALP, 1.006 [1.002, 1.010]), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT, 1.004 [1.001, 1.007]), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, 1.004 [1.000, 1.009]), total protein (TP, 1.040 [1.009, 1.072]), globulin (GLB, 1.060 [1.030, 1.091]), total cholesterol (TC) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (1.162 [1.050, 1.286]), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) to HDL-C ratio (1.243 [1.012, 1.526]); while 4 other biomarkers exhibited negative correlations, included HDL-C (0.988 [0.980, 0.997]), total bilirubin (TBi, 0.501 [0.284, 0.883]), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to ALT ratio (0.588 [0.351, 0.986]), albumin (ALB) to GLB ratio (0.384 [0.229, 0.642]). Following sensitivity analysis, 5 biomarkers included LDH, HDL-C, TBi, AST/ALT and LDL-C/HDL-C lost their statistical significance for the association. This study identified certain associations between 7 liver function biomarkers and depression in US cancer survivors. Further research, particularly prospective longitudinal studies, is warranted to elucidate the causal relationships and explore the potential of improving liver function for the management of depression in cancer patients.

Neurofeedback Reduces P300 Amplitudes to Intensely Emotive Pictures in Depressed Cancer Patients

Objective. Electroencephalographic neurofeedback (EEG NF) or its effects on event-related potentials (ERPs) in quantitative EEG have not yet been systematically studied in cancer patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the emotional arousal and valence effects on the event-related P300 in a visual oddball paradigm by an individualized EEG alpha and theta/beta NF intervention in cancer patients and survivors (N = 18, age between 31 and 73 years). Methods. ERPs to low and high arousal target stimuli with either emotional positive or negative content and depressive state were obtained in cancer patients before and after a five-week NF intervention in a waitlist paradigm, following the consensus on the reporting and experimental design of clinical and cognitive-behavioral NF studies (CRED-nf checklist). Results. Overall, P300 amplitudes decreased significantly (p < .05) from pre to post therapy. Effects concerning high arousal stimuli with negative and positive valences were on the border to significance. Moreover, patients achieved significant relief of depressive symptoms (p < .05). Especially younger participants (<55 yrs.) benefited. Conclusions. P300 observations could reflect a therapeutic effect on brain activity level. EEG NF alleviates depressive symptoms in cancer patients. Significance. Based on these findings, further studies are needed to investigate the effects on event-related potentials by NF therapy.

Anxiety and depression in cancer patients and survivors in the context of restrictions in contact and oncological care during the COVID‐19 pandemic

Treatment modifications and contact restrictions were common during the COVID‐19 pandemic and can be stressors for mental health. There is a lack of studies assessing pandemic‐related risk factors for anxiety and depression of cancer patients and survivors systematically in multifactorial models. A total of 2391 participants, mean age 65.5 years, ≤5 years post‐diagnosis of either lung, prostate, breast, colorectal cancer, or leukemia/lymphoma, were recruited in 2021 via the Baden‐Württemberg Cancer Registry, Germany. Sociodemographic information, pandemic‐related treatment modifications, contact restrictions, and anxiety/depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS) were assessed via self‐administered questionnaire. Clinical information (diagnosis, stage, and treatment information) was obtained from the cancer registry. Overall, 22% of participants reported oncological care modifications due to COVID‐19, mostly in follow‐up care and rehabilitation. Modifications of active cancer treatment were reported by 5.8%. Among those, 50.5% had subclinical anxiety and 55.4% subclinical depression (vs. 37.4% and 45.4%, respectively, for unchanged active treatment). Age <60 years, female sex, lung cancer, low income, and contact restrictions to peer support groups or physicians were identified as independent risk factors for anxiety. Risk factors for depression were lung cancer (both sexes), leukemia/lymphoma (females), recurrence or palliative treatment, living alone, low income, and contact restrictions to relatives, physicians, or caregivers. The study demonstrates that changes in active cancer treatment and contact restrictions are associated with impaired mental well‐being. The psychological consequences of treatment changes and the importance for cancer patients to maintain regular contact with their physicians should be considered in future responses to threats to public health.

Evaluation of obsessive-compulsive disorder in cancer patients: A case-control study.

This study was aimed to investigate the frequency of obsessive-compulsive disorder, which is known to cause depression in cancer patients and may result in cancer treatment failure. A total of 202 cancer patients and 322 healthy individuals were included in this cross-sectional, case-control study. Sociodemographic data form and Maudsley Obsessive-Compulsive Questionnaire (MOCQ) were administered to the participants. The cancer patients' current MOCQ scores and prediagnosis MOCQ scores, and the MOCQ scores of the control group were compared. When the cancer patients and control groups were evaluated according to the MOCQ scales, the cancer patients' MOCQ-control, MOCQ-doubt, MOCQ-rumination, and MOCQ-total scores were found to be higher compared with the control group (P < 0.001, all). When the cancer patients' prediagnosis and postdiagnosis MOCQ scores were compared, it was found that their MOCQ-control, MOCQ-cleanliness, MOCQ-doubt, MOCQ-rumination, and MOCQ-total scores after cancer diagnosis were higher than those before cancer diagnosis (P < 0.001, all). In the cancer patients group, it was observed that the MOCQ scores were higher in those who were at the early stage (P = 0.008), women (P < 0.001), unmarried (P = 0.004), highly educated (P = 0.006), unemployed (P = 0.037), and living in a city center (P = 0.023). There was a positive correlation between the cancer stage and the MOCQ-slowness score (P = 0.043). According to the logistic regression analysis, being a woman, having a high education level, living in a city, and having early-stage cancer were found to be the independent predictive factors for the increased MOCQ scores in cancer patients. It was observed that the MOCQ scores were higher in the cancer patients compared with those in the control group, and the cancer patients' MOCQ scores increased after diagnosis. Having an early-stage cancer disease, being a woman, having a high education level, and living in a city center were the predictive factors for the increased MOCQ scores in cancer patients.