Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background:The primary objectives of this research are twofold. Firstly, the study aims to delve into the frequency and types of psychiatric disorders prevalent among the spouses of individuals grappling with cancer. By examining the psychosocial impact on these partners, we aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges they face. Secondly, our research seeks to establish a connection between the perceived psychopathology experienced by these spouses and their overall quality of life. By exploring this relationship, we hope to shed light on the intricate dynamics at play when one partner is diagnosed with cancer, ultimately contributing valuable insights to both the psychological and oncological fields.Methods:This study adopts a case-control observational clinical approach to examine the occurrence and characteristics of psychiatric disorders in spouses of cancer patients, drawing a comparative analysis with spouses of individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Affective Disorder (BPAD). By juxtaposing these two groups, the research aims to discern potential distinctions in the frequency and nature of psychiatric illnesses, contributing valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by spouses in different medical contexts.Results:In this study, psychiatric morbidity is observed in 54% of cancer patient spouses and a comparable 53.3% in BPAD spouses. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is the most common diagnosis in cancer patient spouses (55.6%), followed by Adjustment Disorder (25.9%). Other disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Dysthymia, and Panic Disorder. For BPAD patients, Adjustment Disorder precedes Major Depressive Disorder. Notably, both cases and controls exhibit elevated psychopathology scores even without a formal psychiatric diagnosis, emphasizing the presence of subclinical symptoms in both groups. These findings shed light on the complex nature of psychiatric challenges in these contexts, offering insights for further exploration and intervention strategies.Conclusion:This study underscores the importance of conducting psychiatric evaluations for spouses following a cancer diagnosis. The findings emphasize the necessity for additional research in this field, not only within India but also in other nations. This recognition points towards a broader imperative to better understand and address the psychological impact on spouses in diverse cultural and healthcare contexts.