Assessing quality of life and depression in non-metastatic breast cancer patients following surgical treatment - Observational Study

Sep 21, 2026

Uploaded by Maeve

Breast cancer is a global health concern that significantly affects individuals’ quality of life (QOL). This observational cross-sectional study examines the relationship between QOL and depression among nonmetastatic breast cancer patients in Lebanon, where evidence is limited. Data were collected at Hammoud Hospital-University Medical Center from January 2018 to January 2023 using a self-administered Google Forms survey via WhatsApp. Among 81 valid responses, most patients showed provisional depression, with education level and chronic diseases linked to QOL outcomes, and financial status associated with major depressive disorder risk.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages8

Reading Time20 min

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Introduction

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® Observational Study Assessing quality of life and depression in non-metastatic breast cancer patients following surgical treatment A cross-sectional study in Lebanon Ali Alakbar Nahle, MDa , Hussein Hamdar, MDa ,* , Rim Awada, MDb , Ziad Kaddour, MDc , Zeina Rammal, MDb , Rim Abbas, MDb , Sarah Ibrahim Jalloul, MDd , Nathalie Haidar Ismail, MDe | Abstract
Breast cancer is a global health concern that significantly impacts the quality of life (QOL) of individuals. This study aims to comprehensively examine the interplay between QOL and depression among nonmetastatic breast cancer patients in Lebanon, a region with limited research in this context. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Hammoud Hospital-University Medical Center from January 2018 to January 2023. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire distributed as Google Forms via WhatsApp. A total of 193 patients had non-metastatic breast cancer. Out of these, 81 valid responses were obtained. The Patient Health Questionnaire and Quality of Life Scale were used to assess depression and QOL, respectively. A total of 81 patients were included with mean age 54.4 years. Results revealed that 77.8% of patients experienced provisional depression, with 35.8% meeting criteria for major depressive disorder. Financial status and chronic diseases were associated with the likelihood of developing major depressive disorder. The mean QOL score was 81. 14, lower than the average for healthy individuals. Educational level and presence of chronic diseases were significant factors influencing QOL. Postsurgical depression prevalence is substantial, underscoring the importance of integrating mental health care. Economic status and comorbidities are influential factors, necessitating targeted interventions. Breast cancer’s impact on QOL is profound, falling below that of other chronic conditions. Education empowers coping, while comorbidities impact QOL. Our findings emphasize the multidimensional nature of breast cancer care, advocating for holistic support and addressing emotional well-being. | | --- | | Abbreviations: CI = confidence intervals, MDD = major depressive disorder, OR = odd ratios, PHQ-9 = 9-item patient health questionnaire, QOL = quality of life, QOLS = Quality of Life Scale. | | Keywords: breast cancer, cross-sectional study, depression, quality of life, surgery | 1. Introduction Breast cancer is a significant global health concern that not only affects physical health but also profoundly influences the quality of life (QOL) of individuals worldwide.[1–3] It is frequently accompanied by other conditions, notably depression, highlighting the importance of comprehensive cancer care.[4,5] Breast cancer knows no boundaries and affects women from diverse backgrounds and regions, irrespective of their socioeconomic status.[6,7] It ranks among the most prevalent cancers globally, contributing significantly to cancer-related morbidity and mortality.[8,9] Recent data underscores the prevalence of anxiety and depression among breast cancer patients, especially in the Levant region, including Lebanon.[10] Furthermore, Arab women with breast cancer, including those in Lebanon, often report lower health-related quality of life scores compared to the general population, emphasizing the need to study QOL in this context.[10–13] In Lebanon, epidemiological studies and cancer registries consistently rank breast cancer as a leading cancer type in the country, highlighting its frequency and impact.[14,15] Tragically, Lebanese breast cancer The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. The datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are not publicly available, but are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. Our study was conducted on human subjects in compliance with the ethical standards outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. The Hammoud Hospital Institutional Review Board (IRB) granted ap

FAQs

What is the main aim of the study?

To examine how quality of life (QOL) and depression interact in nonmetastatic breast cancer patients in Lebanon after surgical treatment.

How was depression and quality of life measured?

Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and quality of life was assessed using the Quality of Life Scale (QOLS).

Which factors were associated with major depressive disorder and QOL?

Financial status was associated with the likelihood of major depressive disorder, while educational level and chronic diseases were significant factors influencing QOL.

Sep 21, 2026

Uploaded by Maeve