Frequently Asked Questions about Anxiety Syndrome in Advanced Breast Cancer

Oct 13, 2025 by thesweetdesigns.com 129 views

The Relationship between Anxiety Syndrome in Advanced Breast Cancer with Socioeconomic Conditions at the Adam Malik Hajj Hospital

Introduction

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, affecting millions of women each year. The diagnosis of breast cancer can be a life-altering experience, leading to anxiety and other mental health issues in many patients. According to various studies, more than 40% of breast cancer patients experience anxiety, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Social factors, such as education level, occupation, and socioeconomic status, play a crucial role in the emergence of anxiety in breast cancer patients. This study aims to investigate the relationship between demographic characteristics and anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer patients at the Adam Malik Haji Hospital.

Background

Breast cancer is a complex disease that affects not only the physical health of patients but also their mental well-being. Anxiety is a common symptom of breast cancer, and its severity can vary depending on several factors, including the stage of the disease, treatment options, and socioeconomic status. Previous studies have shown that patients with lower socioeconomic status are more likely to experience anxiety and other mental health issues. Therefore, it is essential to understand the relationship between demographic characteristics and anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer patients.

Methodology

This study used a correlational observational approach with a latitude cut design. A total of 63 female subjects diagnosed with stage III-IV breast cancer and who had undergone chemotherapy at least three times were included in the study. Patients with a previous psychiatric diagnosis were excluded from the research. The severity of the anxiety syndrome was measured using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire.

Demographic Characteristics

The average age of the patients in this study was 48.68 ± 7.39 years. The majority of the patients (87.3%) were married, and 58.7% were working. However, 41.3% of the patients had low income levels, and the highest level of education achieved was high school, with a proportion of 30.2%. The severity of the most common anxiety syndrome based on GAD-7 was minimum anxiety (42.9%).

Results

The Spearman correlation test results showed that age was not related to anxiety syndrome (R = -0.21, p = 0.115). However, the level of education (r = -0.284, p = 0.024) and income (r = -0.267, p = 0.034) were correlated with anxiety syndrome. Based on the ETA test, work status (f-value = 2.46, f-critical = 4) and marital status (f-value = 0.5, f-critical = 4) were not related to the severity of the anxiety syndrome.

Discussion

This study shows that the higher level of education and income is related to the severity of the lower anxiety syndrome. However, age, marital status, and job status are not related to the severity of anxiety syndrome. These findings have important implications for clinical practices. Medical personnel need to realize that socioeconomic status can affect the level of anxiety in advanced breast cancer patients. A holistic approach that considers psychosocial aspects, including social support and educational-based interventions, is very important to improve the welfare of breast cancer patients.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of considering socioeconomic factors in the management of anxiety in advanced breast cancer patients. The findings of this study suggest that patients with higher education and income levels are less likely to experience anxiety. However, age, marital status, and job status are not related to the severity of anxiety syndrome. Further research is needed to understand the effect of other factors that can contribute to anxiety in advanced breast cancer patients.

Limitations

This study only examines the relationship between demographic characteristics and anxiety syndrome. To understand the effect of other factors that can contribute to anxiety in advanced breast cancer patients, further research is needed.

Resource

Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7): https://www.mdcalc.com/gad-7-anxiety-scale
Breast Cancer: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352470
American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/

Future Directions

Further research is needed to understand the effect of other factors that can contribute to anxiety in advanced breast cancer patients. This includes investigating the role of social support, educational-based interventions, and other psychosocial factors in reducing anxiety in breast cancer patients. Additionally, studies should be conducted to explore the relationship between anxiety and other mental health issues in breast cancer patients.
Frequently Asked Questions about Anxiety Syndrome in Advanced Breast Cancer

Q: What is anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer?

A: Anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer refers to the emotional and psychological distress experienced by patients with breast cancer, particularly those in the advanced stages of the disease. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including feelings of fear, worry, and apprehension about the future, as well as physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and trembling.

Q: What are the risk factors for anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer?

A: Several risk factors have been identified for anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer, including:

Lower socioeconomic status
Lower education level
Unemployment or underemployment
Poor social support
History of trauma or mental health issues
Presence of other chronic illnesses

Q: How is anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer diagnosed?

A: Anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and psychological assessment. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire is a commonly used tool to assess the severity of anxiety symptoms.

Q: What are the symptoms of anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer?

A: The symptoms of anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer can vary from person to person, but may include:

Feelings of fear, worry, or apprehension
Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Sweating or trembling
Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
Irritability or mood swings
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Q: How is anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer treated?

A: Anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer can be treated through a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, including:

Medications such as antidepressants or anxiolytics
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of psychotherapy
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
Exercise or physical activity
Social support from family, friends, or support groups

Q: Can anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer be prevented?

A: While anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer cannot be completely prevented, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing anxiety, including:

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet
Engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation or yoga
Building a strong social support network
Seeking professional help if anxiety symptoms are experienced

Q: What is the prognosis for anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer?

A: The prognosis for anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer varies depending on the individual patient and the severity of their anxiety symptoms. With proper treatment and support, many patients are able to manage their anxiety and improve their quality of life.

Q: Where can I find more information about anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer?

A: For more information about anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer, you can:

Consult with your healthcare provider or a mental health professional
Visit the American Cancer Society website or other reputable health organizations
Join a support group or online community for breast cancer patients and survivors
Read books or articles about anxiety and breast cancer

Q: How can I support a loved one with anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer?

A: If you have a loved one with anxiety syndrome in advanced breast cancer, there are several ways you can support them, including:

Listening to their concerns and feelings
Encouraging them to seek professional help
Helping them to stay connected with friends and family
Supporting them in their treatment and self-care activities
Educating yourself about anxiety and breast cancer to better understand their experience.