Depression and Coping in Breast Cancer Patients

Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the predictors of depression and coping and the correlation between depression and use of coping among breast cancer patients in Korea. Methods: Of 1,250 eligible breast cancer patients attending Yonsei University Severance Hospital, 1,160 completed our surveys. Depression and coping were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory and Korean Cancer Coping Questionnaire. Socio-demographic characteristics were included in the survey and medical factors were compiled by reviewing each patient’s medical chart. Results: Education, economic status, the level of daily activities, menopause and the type of surgery significantly predicted depression. Age, education, economic status, time since surgery, the level of daily activities, and menopause were significant predictors for personal coping; marriage, education, economic status, time since surgery, the surgical method and radiotherapy significantly predicted interpersonal coping. Personal coping and interpersonal coping had significant negative correlations with depression. Conclusion: Many factors are significant predictors but education and economic status are the most significant and consistent predictors for both depression and coping in breast cancer patients. Psychosocial intervention should be planned according to different characteristics of breast cancer patients, in order to reduce depression and enhance effective coping.