Mental Health and Quality of Life Among Patients with Gynaecological Cancers in Lagos, Nigeria

Background:  Globally, it has been established that gynaecological malignancies are a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis and treatment of female genital cancers are associated with marked psychological distress in the form of depression and anxiety. Literature has shown that gynaecological cancers have a significant impact on the mental health and quality of life of affected women, either from the direct effect of the disease itself or from the sequelae of cancer treatment/management.  Objective:  The study aimed to examine the prevalence and correlates of depression and anxiety, and correlates quality of life among gynaecological cancer patients in Lagos, Nigeria.  Method: Systematic random sampling was used to select 91 gynaecological cancer patients. The study was conducted at a teaching hospital in South-West Nigeria. The General Health Questionnaire, Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General, Visual Analogue Scale of Pain, Oslo Social Support Scale and a Socio-demographic Questionnaire were administered.  Results: Prevalence rates were 25.3% and 8.8% for depression and anxiety respectively. Correlates of depression were, duration of illness, pain, tumor site and social support. Monthly income was the only risk factor for anxiety. Correlates for quality of life include; depression, pain, GHQ scores, monthly income, social support and age.  Conclusion: The present findings suggest that gynaecological malignancies have a significant negative impact on the mental health and quality of life of affected women. Therefore, it is pertinent to develop strategies to promote mental health and well-being among women living with neoplasia of the reproductive tract. Please click PDF below to download the full paper...