The impact of bio-psycho-social factors on mental health outcomes in patients with solid tumors.

INTRODUCTION

The old oncology approach, which considered the clinical and performance status as the most relevant diseases course and well-being indexes, has been recently replaced by a care system also focusing on a person's characteristics and needs. This study analyzed the role of physical symptoms, illness awareness, individual activities and social contexts on anxious/depressive symptoms and mental health in localized (LP) and advanced/metastatic (AMP) cancer patients.

METHODS

Socio-demographic and medical information was gathered. The Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire, Hospital and Depression Anxiety Scale, and Mental Health Continuum Short-Form were administered.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirteen patients, 75 LP and 38 AMP, aged 27-82, were enrolled. Unique patterns of difficulties and resources emerged at different stages of cancer. AMP reported a worse quality of life in perceived illness persistence and treatments control, anxious/depressive symptoms, and psychological well-being. In LP, higher levels of anxious/depressive symptoms were associated with lack of hobbies, and higher perceived illness control was linked to higher mental health. LP did not report higher well-being than AMP. No significant differences in flourishing persons distributions were detected among groups. A multivariable model showed that the independent presence of pain and partner influenced higher levels of mental health more in AMP than in LP.

CONCLUSION

Tailored intervention should enhance individuals' mental health and active resources mobilization.