The prevalence and predictors of psychological distress in men with prostate cancer who are seeking support.

OBJECTIVE

The incidence of prostate cancer has risen sharply in the last decade, yet knowledge about the psychological health of men with this disease is still limited. A study was therefore undertaken to identify (1) the prevalence of psychological distress in these males, and (2) factors predicting psychological distress.

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional survey design by means of a self-administered questionnaire.

METHOD

A sample of 94 men with various stages of prostate cancer completed the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate Instrument (FACT-P), the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS) and items measuring satisfaction with medical care.

RESULTS

We detected a prevalence rate of 38% of participants reporting psychological distress corresponding to a HADS cut-off score at or above 15. A standard multivariate regression analysis revealed social/family well-being, physical well-being and functional well-being as significant inverse predictors of psychological distress.

CONCLUSIONS

Health professionals should be aware of the potential for psychological distress in patients exhibiting poor physical functioning and those with apparent deficits in social or family support in this under-studied group of patients. Strategies for psychosocial intervention are implied.