Depressive disorders in an out-patient oncology setting: prevalence, assessment, and management.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the prevalence of depressive disorders among cancer patients attending the out-patient oncology clinic of a major hospital, and to initiate the development of a valid and practical psychological morbidity screening instrument suitable for local conditions.


METHODS
Survey utilising self-report screening scales and full psychiatric interviews.


METHODS
Radiotherapy department, Groote Schuur Hospital.


METHODS
Breast cancer, head and neck cancer, and lymphoma patients attending out-patient oncology clinics.


RESULTS
A total of 456 patients completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Of that sample, 245 also completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and 100 were subjected to a structured psychiatric interview. The prevalence of depression in this population is approximately 14%, which is lower than estimates reported elsewhere. Only 14% of the interviewed depressed cases had been identified and treated by the existing health care system, highlighting the need for suitable screening tools. Appropriate screening tools and management strategies for this population are discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
This study highlighted the need for routine screening for depression and the implementation of cost-effective management strategies in oncology settings.
Berard
R M
RM
Department of Psychiatry, University of Cape Town Medical School, Rondebosch, South Africa.
Boermeester
F
F
Viljoen
G
G
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology*; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008223:Lymphoma / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening; D008605:Mental Health Services; D008875:Middle Aged; D010044:Outpatient Clinics, Hospital; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity