Psychosocial Difficulties and Deprivation in Cancer Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Wright P, Smith A, Booth L, Winterbottom A, Kiely M, Velikova G, Selby P
Primary Institution: Cancer Research UK Clinical Centre in Leeds, St James's University Hospital
Hypothesis
Social difficulties and psychological distress are associated with deprivation in cancer patients.
Conclusion
Deprivation is linked to higher levels of psychological distress in cancer patients, but it is difficult to identify which patients are at risk based on socio-demographic factors.
Supporting Evidence
- Significantly more social difficulties were reported by less affluent patients.
- Psychological distress was found to be higher in patients from more deprived areas.
- Age and stage of disease were significant factors in reported social difficulties.
Takeaway
This study found that people with less money often feel more sad and have more social problems when they have cancer.
Methodology
Three studies were conducted where cancer patients completed questionnaires assessing social difficulties and psychological distress.
Potential Biases
Patients who could not read or understand English may have been underrepresented.
Limitations
More deprived individuals were less likely to participate, potentially excluding vulnerable patients.
Participant Demographics
304 men and 305 women aged 18–88 from a socially diverse region.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P<0.0001
Confidence Interval
CI 1.23–11.19
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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