A randomized controlled trial of group cognitive behavioral therapy for Chinese breast cancer patients with major depression

AbstractBackground: This study aims to evaluate the effects of Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (GCBT) in treating major depression in Chinese women with breast cancer.Methods: Sixty-two breast cancer patients diagnosed with major depression were randomly assigned to GCBT group (N = 31) or a waiting list control group provided with an educational booklet (N = 31). The primary outcome measure was the 17-Item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (17-HAMD). The second outcome measures were Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Breast and Self-Esteem Scale (SES). Assessments were carried out at completion of the study and six-month afterwards.Results: Patients in the GCBT group had a significant reduction in the 17-HAMD mean score by 9 points (p < 0.001), more than any reduction among patients in the control group from baseline to the end of therapy and a significant 7 points (p < 0.001) more reduction from baseline to six-month follow-up. GCBT also yielded significantly greater i...