A descriptive analysis of depression and pain complaints among patients with cancer in a low income country.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In high income countries, cancer is one of the leading causes of death, with co-morbid depression contributing to the risk of increased mortality. However, both cancer and depression are neglected conditions in low income countries. The current study assessed the magnitude of depression and the association of pain complaints with depression among patients with cancer in a low income country.

Method

In this cross-sectional study participants were 390 patients with established diagnosis of cancer, who were recruited consecutively when visiting a tertiary treatment centre in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The occurrence of depression was determined using the nine items Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Major depressive disorder was confirmed: (1) when five or more of the

SUBMITTER: Alemayehu M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5841758 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature