Psychological distress of head and neck cancer patients

Abstract

Background: Head and neck cancer (HNC) is the eighth most common cancer globally and is usually diagnosed at late stage. Upon receiving a tumor diagnosis, patients deal with complexities in the areas of physical health, emotional well-being, and social interactions. After undergoing treatment for a tumor, substantial tissue defects may arise in the head, neck, and mouth regions, contingent upon the tumor’s size, location, and developmental stage. These patients commonly demonstrates signs of self-revulsion, social isolation, and depression due to their physical imperfections and the subsequent loss of basic functions such as chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Aim: To determine the level of anxiety and depression in patients with head and neck cancer. Materials and Methods: The participants in this cross-sectional study were adult patients who had received treatment for HNC. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Test (HADS) were taken from inpatients at the Head and Neck and Reconstructive Surgery Department of the National Cancer Center from December 2023 to February 2024. The study was carried out employing a cross-sectional design, and the subsequent statistical analysis was performed with the aid of the SPSS 26.00 program. Results: In the 62 patients undergoing treatment for head and neck tumors, 40 (64%) expressed anxiety, and 24 (38%) were identified as having depression. There were no statistical differences in psychological status between patient gender, age, and tumor stage. However, tumor size greater than 4 centimeters has an effect on depression (p=0.04). Conclusion: 64% of patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer have anxiety and 38% depression.