Psychological distress and quality of life of partners of individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis.
OBJECTIVE
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a genetic condition characterized by the development of multiple adenomas in the colorectum that could lead to colorectal cancer. Our aim was to assess levels and predictors of psychological distress and quality of life (QOL) among partners of FAP-patients.


METHODS
A nationwide, cross-sectional survey using validated self-report questionnaires assessing psychological distress and QOL.


RESULTS
One hundred and twenty-nine partners completed the questionnaire (84% response rate), 30% of whom reported moderate-to-severe levels of distress. The partners' distress was associated significantly with the patients' distress, having children, and feelings of guilt. Fifty-seven percent of the partners with moderate-to-severe distress levels had received professional psychosocial support. Partners did not differ significantly from the general population in QOL. However, 9-21% reported that FAP had affected their work, leisure time activities, and relationships.


CONCLUSIONS
Clinicians should be particularly alert for heightened distress levels in partners of patients who are themselves distressed, and among those with children.
Douma
Kirsten F L
KF
Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Bleiker
Eveline M A
EM
Vasen
Hans F A
HF
Gundy
Chad M
CM
Gerritsma
Miranda A
MA
Aaronson
Neil K
NK
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D011125:Adenomatous Polyposis Coli / Q000150:complications / Q000235:genetics / Q000523:psychology*; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009426:Netherlands; D015995:Prevalence; D011613:Psychotherapy; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology*; D012747:Sexual Partners; D018434:Sickness Impact Profile; D012944:Social Support; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000209:etiology* / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult