Psychosocial Factors Associated with Quality of Life of Patients with Cancer in Southern Sri Lanka

Abstract

Introduction:MethodsResultsConclusions:Key WordsStress in cancer patients directly affects the outcome of treatment.Aim of the study was to assessstress levels in cancer patients.A sample of cancer patients (N=210) were assessed using an interviewer administered questionnaireand the General Health Questionnaire - 12 item version (GHQ-12).Whole sample had reported some level of distress; a large majority (65%) had reported severe levels ofdistress (GHQ>20). The overall mean GHQ score (mGHQs) was 22.50 (SD=3.8). Severe distress level indicatedby participants with different cancer types ranged from 57% of those with breast cancer to 84% with lung cancer.No significant differences were found in mGHQs of five cancer types (p=0.056). Half of the participants (51%)had reported disabilities and their mGHQs (±SD) was 23.79 (±4.30), while mGHQs (±SD) of those withoutdisability was 21.17 (±2.70) (p<0.001). Among them, 49% had two disabilities (mGHQs - 21.16±2.69), 27%had more than three disabilities (mGHQs - 24.82±4.62). Majority (64%) earned monthly income of<Rs. 10,000/- and their mGHQs was 23.19 while that of those who earned > Rs. 10,000/- was 21.28 (p<0.001).Lung cancer patients were severely distressed. Cancer patients with lower income and disabilitieswere reported to have higher distress. Psychosocial support services should prioritize patients experiencingdisabilities and those who are from lower economic background.