Global prevalence of depression among breast cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Purpose: Depression in patients with breast cancer imposes huge costs to patients, families, and healthcare systems. The present study aimed at evaluating the global prevalence depression among patients with breast cancer.

Methods: In this meta-analysis, three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) were searched from 1 January, 2000 until 30 March, 2019. The Hoy tool was used to evaluate the quality of the articles included in the meta-analysis. The search, screening, quality evaluation, and data extraction were carried out by two of the researchers.

Results: Of 47,424 studies, 72 studies performed in 30 countries entered the final stage of analysis. The global prevalence of depression was 32.2%. Specifically, the prevalence of depression was highest in the Eastern Mediterranean region and twice as high in middle-income countries as compared to developed countries.

Conclusions: Regarding the high prevalence of depression in patients with breast cancer, it is vital to carry out screening within standard time periods and offer the necessary emotional support.

Keywords: Breast neoplasms; Depression; Meta-analysis; Systematic review.