Psychological Problems of Patients with Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Objective: Assessment the psychological problems in patients with colorectal cancer, and to find out the
relationship between socio-demographic characteristics such as (age, sex, marital status, educational level,
and occupation) and psychological problems for those patients.
Methodology: A descriptive design is employed through the present study from 1
st July 2011 to 25
th December
2011 in order to study the quality of life in colorectal cancer patients with psychological problems.
A purposive (non probability) sample is selected for the study which includes (60) patients diagnosed with
colorectal cancer were treated in Mosul Oncology and Nuclear Medicine hospital or the patients who visited
the outpatient clinic in the same hospital for medical follow–up and further treatment. Data were gathered
through the patients` interviewed. Assessment questioner consist of two parts contains demographic
characteristic, the other part concerning about assessment the psychological problems for patients with
colorectal cancer. Reliability and validity of this tool is determined through application of a pilot study and
panel of experts. Data were analyzed through the application of descriptive statistical (frequencies and
percentages), inferential statistical (mean of score), and logistic regression.
Results: The Overall results revealed that the quality of life in colorectal cancer patients with psychological
problems was acceptable, and there is significant correlation between the psychological problems related for
these patients and one demographic characteristic that was region (residency) of patients.
Recommendations: The study recommended to preparation of an education program for patients with
colorectal cancer and to raise awareness and education among families of patients to provide a better
psychological life for their patients.