BACKGROUND: Psychosocial strategies are commonly used to alleviate anxiety and depression in patients with prostate cancer.
However, previous studies have shown inconsistent results.
OBJECTIVES: This study examined the effects of psychosocial strategies on anxiety and depression in prostate cancer patients.
DATA SOURCES AND REVIEW METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted using 4 English databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cinahl, and PsycInfo) and 2 Chinese databases (Wanfang data and Chinese Electronic Periodical Service) with predetermined keyword searches. We first evaluated 8144 titles and/or abstracts. Fourteen studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected. The criteria for study inclusion were as follows: (1) randomized controlled trial design; (2) control group received usual or standard care; (3) focus on testing psychosocial strategies to improve anxiety and depression symptoms; and (4) studies conducted with prostate cancer patients at any stage of the disease.
RESULTS: The quality of the studies was assessed using the Jadad scoring system. Only 35.7% of studies were regarded as high quality. The majority of studies (85.7%) delivered informational and educational or cognitive-behavioral interventions. The results show that psychosocial strategies have a substantial effect on reducing anxiety 3 months after intervention (standard mean difference -1.13, p< 0.0001) and have a short-term effect on depression symptoms (immediately after intervention: standard mean difference -0.43, p< 0.001; 3 months after intervention: standard mean difference -0.78, p=0.04).
CONCLUSION: The results indicate that psychosocial strategies were more effective in reducing anxiety and depression compared with routine care, although the effect was not sustainable. However, high-quality methodologies, longer follow-up designs, and innovative psychosocial strategies are suggested for further study.
Written by:
Chien CH, Liu KL, Chien HT, Liu HE. Are you the author?
College of Nursing, National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences, Taipei City, Taiwan.
Reference: Int J Nurs Stud. 2013 Feb 8. pii: S0020-7489(12)00461-0.
doi: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2012.12.019
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 23398917
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