Long-term adjustment of survivors of ovarian cancer - abstract J Psychosoc Oncol. 2010

Abstract

This study described the long-term adjustment of 42 ovarian cancer survivors diagnosed with advanced-stage disease with no evidence of recurrence, a mean of 6.1 years postdiagnosis. 64% of survivors' mental health was at or above the norm of medical outpatients (Mental Health Inventory-17). No patients reported post-traumatic stress disorder at a diagnosable level (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist-Civilian). The majority of survivors (>/= 75%) reported a positive impact of cancer on their lives (Impact of Cancer Scale) and excellent social support (Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey). However, a subset of survivors reported needing more help than was received regarding emotional problems (28.9%).

full free access:Prevalence of mental health conditions in cancer patients in acute care—a meta-analysis — Ann Oncol

"Further research is needed to identify reasons for the heterogeneity in prevalence rates. It may be that tumour site, stage, and treatment as well as cultural factors may play a role, but this needs further investigation. In addition, a fair amount of oncological care takes place in outpatient settings. It would therefore be worthwhile to carry out another meta-analysis of studies, investigating the prevalence of mental disorders at that stage of cancer care."