Prevalence and correlates of anxiety and depression among cancer caregivers in cancer care and treatment facility in Uganda

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Godfrey Katende

Sultan Qaboos University, Oman

: Int J Ment Health Psychiatry

Abstract

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Introduction: In Uganda, there is limited data available on the prevalence and correlates of anxiety and depression among cancer care givers. Aim: Our study sought to determine the prevalence of anxiety and depression among cancer caregivers as well as identify the factors associated with abnormal levels of anxiety and depression among cancer care givers attending the cancer care and treatment facility in Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional and correlational study involving 119 cancer care givers, attending a Uganda Cancer Institute were completed with the help of the interviewer administered Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) standardized questionnaire. Results: Forty five percent (45%) of the cancer caregivers had abnormal levels of anxiety (ALA) while 26% had abnormal levels of depression (ALD). Being a relative to the patient was significantly associated with abnormal levels of anxiety (OR 0.33, p≤0.02) and abnormal levels of depression (OR 0.22, p≤ 0.02). Other demographic characteristics did not demonstrate any significant deference for abnormal levels of anxiety and depression. Implication for Practice: Health care providers in primary and tertiary facilities need to recognize anxiety and depression. Integrating psychosocial services specifically for care givers is crucial for improved quality of life.

Biography

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Email: katendeg@squ.edu.om