The Evaluation of Relationship Between Malnutrition, Quality of Life and Depression in Cancer Patients Treated with Chemotherapy

Objective: The main aim of the study was to evaluate relationship between malnutrition and quality of life in gastrointestinal (GIS) and non-gastrointestinal (non- GIS) cancer patients treated with chemotherapy. Methods: This study was carried out from March to October 2015. 104 cancer patients (52 GIS and 52 non-GIS cancer cases) participated in the study. The patients aged between 19-64 years-old and treated in a medical oncology clinic. The general characteristics and disease information of the patients were recorded in a questionnaire form. Nutritional status, quality of life, anxiety and depression status were assessed using “Patient Generated-Subjective Global Assessment” (PG-SGA), “European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire” (EORTC QLQ-C30) and “Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale” (HADS), respectively. Results: The percentages of malnutrition were found 64.6% and 64.3% in male, and 61.9% and 45.8% in female patients with GIS and non-GIS cancer, respectively. There was negative moderate and significant correlation between PG-SGA score and EORTC QLQ-C30 score (r=-.424, p=0.000). There was positive moderate and significant correlation between PG-SGA score and anxiety score (r=.489, p=0.000) and depression score (r=.514, p=0.000). Conclusion: The nutritional status, quality of life, anxiety and depression level of each patient diagnosed with cancer should be evaluated comprehensive by using appropriate scales. The obtained data will guide the best nutritional therapy and psychological support.