Symptom severity according to the presence of depressive and anxiety symptoms among patients with head and neck cancer

The purpose of this study was to compare symptom severity and the impact of presence of depressive and/or anxiety symptoms among patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). Methods: One hundred and fifteen patients diagnosed with HNC completed two questionnaires: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the M. D. Anderson Symptom Inventory-Head and Neck Cancer (MDASI-HN). Results: Of the total sample, 55.6% reported depressive symptoms and 33% reported anxiety symptoms. Patients who reported either depressive or anxiety symptoms also had significantly more severe symptoms. The most severe symptom was dry mouth. Participants who were depressed reported that interference in the enjoyment of life due to symptoms was the most distressing whereas participants with anxiety reported symptom interference in work was of most concern. Of patients reporting moderate to severe symptoms, more than 60% reported depressive symptoms. Of patients reporting moderate to severe feelings of being distress and feeling sad, more than 70% reported anxiety symptoms. Conclusion: Patients with HNC reporting moderate to severe symptoms also report depressive and/or anxiety symptoms. The results suggest the need to develop an integrated nursing intervention of both physical and emotional symptoms for patients with HNC.