Qom University of Medical Sciences Journal

Background and Objectives: Nowadays, with advances made in cancer treatment and increasing the lifetime, depression is the most common psychiatric disorder among cancer patients. Considering the importance of depression in recovery process of cancer and the likely influence of social support on depression, this study was designed to assess the relationship between social support and depression in cancer patients.

Methods: This study was a descriptive survey on a random sample (80 cases) of adults having referred to radiotherapy and oncology ward of Golestan hospital in Ahvaz in 2005. Data were collected by a three section questionnaire including demographic questions, standard beck depression test and standard social support questionnaire.

Results: The findings showed that out of all cases 37.5% were men and 62.5% were women with the mean age of 43.35±17.58 years. 52.5% had depression. 57.5% had not received any social support. Severity of depression and social supports had significant negative relationship. As the more social support resulted in less depression (p=0/000).

Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, depression has reverse relationship with social support. Therefore, it is suggested that in order to prevent and decrease depression in these patients, social support development be considered in these patients