DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2017.v05i11.077

Pages: 4702-4708

The aim of this study was to analyse factors affecting the level of depression in women with breast cancer. There was especially observed type of surgery and a sense of coherence. The study included 236 women treated for breast cancer. The study was conducted as a single measurement after treatment for breast cancer, which started with an operation. Women surveyed responded to the questionnaire with questions regarding demographics, course of illness and treatment, and two clinical scales: Beck Depression Inventory and the SOC-29 questionnaire. Patients after mastectomy had a significantly higher level of depression compared to women after breast conserving therapy or who have not undergone surgery. The severity of depression was related to the number of cancer treatments completed. The existence of cancer in the family affected the sense of coherence and the level of depression of women. The level of severity of depression was associated with a sense of coherence and all its components. The study shows the relationship of the disease and treatment (particularly the type of surgery used) with a level of depression of women. A less severe disease and the use of breast conserving surgery is associated with a lower severity of depressive disorders. The sense of coherence, which determines the attitude towards the disease, is associated with mental state.