G-1044

Investigating The Association Between Anxiety and Quality of Life in Patients with Gynecological Cancers Referred to Medical Centers Affiliated with Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in 2024 : A Correlation Study

 Pardis Doosti ¹ ℗, Shahram Etemadifar ², Fatemeh Aliakbari ² ©   

 
Abstract

Introduction: Gynecological cancers, which include malignancies of the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vulva, and vagina, represent a significant public health concern characterized by considerable morbidity and mortality rates. These cancers not only adversely affect patients' physical health but also lead to severe psychological distress, particularly manifesting as heightened levels of anxiety. Research indicates that anxiety disorders are prevalent among individuals diagnosed with gynecological cancers, leading to substantial declines in their quality of life The present study aims to investigate the association between anxiety and Quality of Life in patients with gynecological cancers who were referred to the medical centers affiliated with Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in 2024. Methods and Materials: This correlational study engaged 70 patients diagnosed with gynecological cancers referred to medical centers of Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in 2024. A convenience sampling method was employed to recruit participants. Participants completed the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, as well as the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-C30). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software version 24, employing Pearson’s correlation to assess the relationship between anxiety levels and Quality of Life metrics, alongside linear regression analysis. Results: The study had a mean age of 49.84 ± 11.40 years, with a mean duration of illness of 6.71 ± 3.30 months and an average of 3.10 ± 2.55 children per patient. Mean scores for anxiety and quality of life were recorded at 101.20 ± 28.10 and 70.02 ± 17.34, respectively. A statistically significant inverse correlation was identified between state anxiety (r = -0.701, p = 0.001) and trait anxiety (r = -0.633, p = 0.001) with quality of life. Thus, higher anxiety levels correlated with lower reported quality of life with a beta coefficient of -0.661. Additionally, no significant associations were observed between age, duration of illness, or number of children with anxiety and quality of life variables through multiple linear regression analysis. Conclusion and Discussion: This investigation underscores the critical influence of anxiety as a psychological determinant affecting the quality of life in patients with gynecological cancers. Prioritizing mental health interventions, including counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and stress management techniques, as essential components of patient care. It is imperative that the assessment and management of anxiety be integrated into clinical strategies for this patient population to enhance their overall well-being and quality of life. Further research is encouraged to explore targeted interventions and their efficacy in alleviating anxiety among this vulnerable group.

Keywords: Anxiety, Quality of Life, Genital neoplasms, Mental Health