Abstract
Introduction: Cancer is a leading cause of death, and psychological distress (PD) is one of its potential risk factors. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the association between PD and cancer in adults.
Study Design: A repeated cross-sectional study.
Methods: This study used retrospective data from the non-communicable disease risk factor (NCDRF) community-based study performed in Bogor, Indonesia. All NCDRF and Cohort Study participants meeting the inclusion criteria were included in this study. PD was measured using the Self-Reporting Questionnaire from the World Health Organization, with at least 6 of 20 answered “yes”. The study focused on PD in the last 2 years before the first self-reporting cancer diagnosis, and the data sample was analyzed using logistic regression.
Results: Of 2,133 participants, 86 reported a cancer diagnosis, and 278 experienced PD at least once in the last 2 years preceding cancer diagnosis. Compared to those without PD, the risk of cancer diagnosis was significantly higher among individuals who experienced PD, with an odds ratio of 3.67 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.143–6.283; P<0.001) for once, and 16.35 (95% CI: 7.663–34.876; P<0.001) for twice, adjusted for age, total cholesterol level, weight loss, and physical activity.
Conclusion: PD was associated with cancer diagnosis. Accordingly, it is important to integrate professional medical advice, psychological motivation, spiritual guidance, and consistent emotional and tangible support from the family to prevent and control PD.