Depression in cancer patients

Lancet Oncol. 2001 Aug;2(8):499-505. doi: 10.1016/S1470-2045(01)00456-9.

Abstract

Clinical depression is a relatively common, and yet frequently overlooked, source of suffering among patients with cancer. All patients who face a life-threatening diagnosis such as cancer experience a normal albeit painful emotional reaction, but a substantial minority will become clinically depressed. This article reviews some basic information that oncology practitioners may find helpful in identifying patients at risk of experiencing a major depression. A brief overview of the epidemiology, diagnostic criteria, screening approaches, and special issues, such as depression in the elderly, high-risk populations, and suicide is also provided.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Depressive Disorder / epidemiology
  • Depressive Disorder / etiology*
  • Depressive Disorder / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Prevalence
  • Risk Factors
  • Suicide