THE ROLE OF STRESS IN PATIENTS WITH BREAST CANCER AND DEPRESSION

Introduction. The study aimed to establish the magnitude of stress a year preceding the onset of breast cancer and depression in the studied female patients.
Methods. Breast cancer is experienced as an important stressor and a major challenge. The study was prospective for the most part. The Paykel’s stressful Life Events scale was used in the investigation. The statistical data analysis included measures of descriptive and analytical statistics and logistics regression.
Results. Stressful life events differed significantly between the groups. In the studied group, the following events were significantly more prevalent.
Conclusion. These stressful life events had a significant impact on the increase of risk for breast cancer, as well as on depressivity.
Key words: stress, breast cancer, depressivity