The effect's of chemotherapy on quality of life and emotional status (anxiety, depression) in lymphoma patients

Lymphomas divided into two groups as Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). In recent years, as a result of advances in modern medical technology, availability of diagnosis and treatment was increased. Thus the psychiatric complications during and post treatment have attracted much attention. In previous studies has been demonstrated that compared to the normal population, there is more temporary or chronic tiredness and depressed mood in patients who diagnosed and treated with Lymphoma. In Turkish society, quality of life analyzes in various types of cancer are compatible with the literatures, but there is insufficient datas or studies to define the current situation for Lymphoma. In our study, we evaluated the patients who diagnosed lymphoma at Dokuz Eylul University Faculty of Medicine and Adult Hematology Clinic of Izmir Katip Celebi University Hospital. We aimed to demonstrate the status of depression, anxiety, despair and quality of life and the relationship with each of these variables with using Beck Depression Scale, Beck Hopelessness Scale, State Trait Anxiety Inventory and EORTC-QLQ C30 Quality of Life Scale. 75 newly diagnosed and treated patients were included in this study, who agreed to answer the questionnaire. These patients were re-assessment questionnaires during follow after treatment with 35. Depression was identified %24.2 of newly diagnosed or treated patients (%7.1 severe depression) and %17.1 of post treatment control patients. Hopelessness level was significantly higher in during follow after treatment patients and in patients with complete remission after treatment. It was found that quality of life decreased in treatment process and the physical, emotional, social and economic balance is disrupted. Therefore the main principles to be considering in lymphoma treatment is not only to improve survival, but also identifying the psychological disorders of patients and find solutions for them and improving survival with preserving their quality of life.