Psychological Distress in Adolescent and Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer in Korea

Abstract

This study examined psychological distress levels, their differences across groups based on sociodemographic and medical variables, and risk factors for significant distress in adolescent and young adult childhood cancer survivors in Korea. Participants consisted of 223 Korean survivors of childhood cancer between 15 and 39 years of age. Psychological distress was measured using the Brief Symptom Inventory–18. A series of t tests, binomial proportion tests, analysis of variance, and univariable and multivariable logistic regressions were used. One fifth of the participants were classified as psychologically distressed. Significant levels of psychological distress were associated with age, economic status, and time since diagnosis. The results indicate a greater need for monitoring and follow-up care related to psychological health in childhood cancer survivors. Outreach and collaboration with health care professionals to increase mental health referrals could provide opportunities to address the needs of childhood cancer survivors in terms of their psychological well-being.