Loading...
Publication
Towards a better understanding of the factors associated with distress in elderly cancer patients: a systematic review
| Name: | Description: | Size: | Format: | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.87 MB | Adobe PDF |
Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
This study presents a systematic review of the sociodemographic, clinical, and psychosocial
factors associated with distress in elderly cancer patients. Relevant studies were identified using four
electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and ProQuest. Cross-sectional and longitudinal
studies exploring factors associated with distress in people over 60 years of age were included and
independently assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Assessment Checklists. A total of
20 studies met the inclusion criteria. Research showed that being a woman, being single, divorced or
widowed, having low income, having an advanced diagnosis, having functional limitations, having
comorbidities, and having little social support were factors consistently associated with emotional
distress. Data further showed that the impact of age, cancer type, and cancer treatment on symptoms
of anxiety and/or depression in elderly patients is not yet well established. The findings of this
review suggest that the emotional distress of elderly cancer patients depends on a myriad of factors
that are not exclusive, but coexisting determinants of health. Future research is still needed to better
understand risk factors for distress in this patient population, providing the resources for healthcare
providers to better meet their needs.
Description
Keywords
Cancer Elderly Depression Anxiety Distress