MENTAL HEALTH OUTCOMES IN PAKISTANI ADULTS DIAGNOSED WITH BRAIN CANCER: A QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

Background:
Psychological distress is a frequent but underrecognized complication in patients with life-threatening illnesses. While depression, anxiety, and stress are well-documented among cancer patients globally, limited data exist from low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan, particularly concerning individuals diagnosed with brain cancer. Understanding the mental health profile of this population is essential for developing integrated care strategies that address both physical and emotional well-being.

Objective:
This study aimed to examine the prevalence and interrelationship of depression, anxiety, and stress among adults diagnosed with brain cancer in Pakistan and to explore gender-based differences in psychological outcomes.

Methods:
A cross-sectional correlational design was employed, enrolling 100 adult patients aged 18 to 60 years with a confirmed diagnosis of brain cancer. Participants were recruited using stratified sampling from neurology and oncology departments of hospitals in Lahore, Karachi, Gujranwala, Islamabad, and Multan. Mental health outcomes were assessed using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), a validated 21-item self-report measure. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 29, applying Pearson correlation and independent samples t-tests.

Results:
The mean age of participants was 37.81 years (SD = 11.24), with 57% men and 43% women. Strong positive correlations were found among depression, anxiety, and stress: depression with anxiety (r = .34, p < .01), depression with stress (r = .97, p < .01), and anxiety with stress (r = .35, p < .01). Gender-based comparisons showed no significant differences across depression (p = .85), anxiety (p = .52), or stress (p = .64), although mean scores were slightly higher in women.

Conclusion:
The findings underscore the significant psychological burden faced by brain cancer patients in Pakistan. These results support the urgent need to incorporate mental health services into routine oncology care and advocate for awareness campaigns aimed at destigmatizing psychological support in cancer settings.