Comparative study of the level of depression between the breast cancer women and non- breast cancer women.

Thesis Report.

ABSTRACT: Cancer is one of the oldest diseases of human beings. Diagnostic and therapeutic aspects have advanced significantly. Scientists and medical personnel today has increase the life span of a cancer patient of considerably, because of multifarious approach. However nothing much is done regarding the status of the patient in relation to the society and the mental, behavioral and physical aspects. This study presents the psychological state of breast cancer patients. Age group, education, family backgrounds were recorded for about 15 breast cancer patients and 15 breast cancer patients and 15 non breast cancers. Data were gathered by questionnaires at Teaching Hospital, private clinics and from general population in Kathmandu. Different questionnaires were used to collect the data for the study and the result indicates that the breast cancer patients could not maintain good sound mental health. Their self-positive evaluation has been found very low during the study period. The present study shows that the breast cancer patients are mentally ill. The investigator found that they are very depressed. Some common depressive descriptions include: not being able to do tasks, being extremely timid or lacking in energy, having no motivation, crying a lot, not being able to concentrate, feeling of decline in memory and decisions making. In this study, only one women was found to be very strong and courageous towards the diseases. Her mental health was found to be very normal. It may be due to good support by her husband and family. The investigator found that this type of courageous woman could be helpful for other breast cancer patients.

Eng.