Identification of Mental Disorders in Oncology Patients

Abstract

Objective: Identification of mental disorders in cancer patients and verification of patients' adherence to oncology screening. Method: An integrative review of the literature was conducted using DeCS/MeSH descriptors, searched in the main indexed databases: PubMed, SciELO, Cochrane, and LILACS. Results: Patients with severe mental disorders faced significant difficulties in the early diagnosis and effective treatment of cancer. Low participation rates in screening programs, delayed diagnoses, and challenges in accessing treatment were common. During treatment, disorders such as anxiety and depression were frequently identified as the majority of disorders, further complicating the management of the disease. Conclusion: The intersection between the themes of mental disorders and cancer is crucial and highlights the need to expand research that addresses different types of neoplasms and mental disorders.